Quebrada de Humahuaca
Location: Juyuy, Argentina
Year of Inscription: 2003
Criteria:(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: Quebrada de Humahuaca is a scenic and culturally rich valley located in the Jujuy Province of Argentina. It stretches over 150 kilometers (93 miles) along the Río Grande and is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. The region has a long history of human habitation, with evidence of prehistoric settlements and the influence of various indigenous cultures. The valley is renowned for its vibrant traditional villages, colorful adobe architecture, and a mix of indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage.
Prominent Features:
History: The valley has been inhabited by various indigenous cultures, including the Omaguaca, Tilcaras, and Incas. It served as an important trade route for the exchange of goods and ideas between the Andean highlands and the lowland areas.
During the colonial period, the Spanish arrived in the region and established settlements, introducing their culture and religion. The town of Humahuaca played a significant role in Argentina's struggle for independence from Spanish rule, with battles and military campaigns taking place in the area.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: Quebrada de Humahuaca was an important cultural and trade route during pre-Columbian times, connecting the Andean highlands with the lowland areas.
Entry Fees: There is no specific entry fee for visiting the Quebrada de Humahuaca itself as it is an open valley. However, some attractions and sites within the valley may have their own entrance fees, such as museums or archaeological sites.
How to Reach It: The Qhapaq Ñan spans across different countries and regions, making the access points varied.
By Air: The nearest airport is Gobernador Horacio Guzmán International Airport (also known as Jujuy Airport), located in the city of San Salvador de Jujuy. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the towns and villages in the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
By Bus: There are regular bus services that connect the Quebrada de Humahuaca with major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires and Salta. Buses are a popular and convenient mode of transportation to reach the region. You can check bus schedules and book tickets in advance through various bus companies operating in Argentina.
The journey from Buenos Aires to the Jujuy Province, where the Quebrada de Humahuaca is located, is a long-distance trip that takes approximately 20-24 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.
By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take Route 9, which runs through the Quebrada de Humahuaca. The road offers scenic views and allows you to explore the region at your own pace.
Where to Stay: The Quebrada de Humahuaca offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommendations:
Purmamarca and Tilcara offer a wider range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels and resorts, while Humahuaca has more budget-friendly options. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Next Stop: Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
Year of Inscription: 2003
Criteria:(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;(vi)to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: Quebrada de Humahuaca is a scenic and culturally rich valley located in the Jujuy Province of Argentina. It stretches over 150 kilometers (93 miles) along the Río Grande and is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. The region has a long history of human habitation, with evidence of prehistoric settlements and the influence of various indigenous cultures. The valley is renowned for its vibrant traditional villages, colorful adobe architecture, and a mix of indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage.
Prominent Features:
- Pucará de Tilcara: An archaeological site that showcases the remains of an ancient hilltop fortress and provides insights into the indigenous cultures that once inhabited the region.
- Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors): A visually striking geological formation in the town of Purmamarca, characterized by layers of different mineral deposits that create a vivid spectrum of colors.
- Humahuaca: A historic town with well-preserved colonial architecture and a significant cultural heritage. The town's main attraction is the Monumento a los Héroes de la Independencia (Monument to the Heroes of Independence), a towering white monument dedicated to the region's role in Argentina's struggle for independence.
- Hornocal (Serranía de Hornocal): Located near the town of Humahuaca, Hornocal is a breathtaking mountain range known for its multicolored rock formations. The unique palette of colors offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
History: The valley has been inhabited by various indigenous cultures, including the Omaguaca, Tilcaras, and Incas. It served as an important trade route for the exchange of goods and ideas between the Andean highlands and the lowland areas.
During the colonial period, the Spanish arrived in the region and established settlements, introducing their culture and religion. The town of Humahuaca played a significant role in Argentina's struggle for independence from Spanish rule, with battles and military campaigns taking place in the area.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Visit local markets: Explore the vibrant markets in towns like Purmamarca and Humahuaca, where you can find local handicrafts, traditional textiles, and delicious regional food.
- Take a scenic drive: Enjoy a road trip through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, taking in the stunning landscapes and picturesque villages along the way. Stop at viewpoints to capture memorable photos of the valley.
- Explore the Pucará de Tilcara: Embark on a guided tour of the Pucará de Tilcara archaeological site to learn about the region's ancient history and the indigenous cultures that once thrived there.
- Attend cultural festivals: If you visit during the festival season, you may have the opportunity to witness traditional music, dance performances, and religious celebrations that showcase the local culture.
Fun Fact: Quebrada de Humahuaca was an important cultural and trade route during pre-Columbian times, connecting the Andean highlands with the lowland areas.
Entry Fees: There is no specific entry fee for visiting the Quebrada de Humahuaca itself as it is an open valley. However, some attractions and sites within the valley may have their own entrance fees, such as museums or archaeological sites.
How to Reach It: The Qhapaq Ñan spans across different countries and regions, making the access points varied.
By Air: The nearest airport is Gobernador Horacio Guzmán International Airport (also known as Jujuy Airport), located in the city of San Salvador de Jujuy. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the towns and villages in the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
By Bus: There are regular bus services that connect the Quebrada de Humahuaca with major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires and Salta. Buses are a popular and convenient mode of transportation to reach the region. You can check bus schedules and book tickets in advance through various bus companies operating in Argentina.
The journey from Buenos Aires to the Jujuy Province, where the Quebrada de Humahuaca is located, is a long-distance trip that takes approximately 20-24 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.
By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take Route 9, which runs through the Quebrada de Humahuaca. The road offers scenic views and allows you to explore the region at your own pace.
Where to Stay: The Quebrada de Humahuaca offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommendations:
- Purmamarca: This charming village is a popular base for exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca. It offers a range of accommodation options, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Purmamarca is known for its stunning landscapes, colorful mountains, and the famous Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of Seven Colors).
- Tilcara: Another picturesque village in the region, Tilcara offers a mix of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. It has a vibrant atmosphere, with traditional markets, lively festivals, and archaeological sites to explore.
- Humahuaca: The town of Humahuaca itself is a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. It has a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. Humahuaca is known for its colonial architecture and the iconic Monumento a los Héroes de la Independencia (Monument to the Heroes of Independence).
Purmamarca and Tilcara offer a wider range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels and resorts, while Humahuaca has more budget-friendly options. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Next Stop: Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System