Hornocal Mountain, also known as Serranía de Hornocal, boasts one of the most beautiful landscapes in northwest Argentina. Located near the town of Humahuaca in the province of Jujuy, Hornocal is called the natural wonder of 14 colorful mountains (Mirador del Cerro de los 14 Colores). The surreal landscape with the bright red and orange hues is one of the most photographed in Argentina!
The unique Mesozoic geologic formation, called Yacoraite, stretches along the Andes from Salta to Humahuaca and then through the Bolivian Altiplano range to Peru. Limestone rocks, formed about 600 million years ago, bear traces of various mineral sediments that can be seen in layers exposed by erosion. Dinosaur remains have been found in the Yacoraite fossils. Quebrada de Humahuaca region was also crossed by an ancient Inca caravan road, which allowed the area to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.
The best time to visit the Hornocal Mountains is during the dry season from April to October, however, the subtropical climate in northern Argentina makes a visit possible all year round. The Hornocal Mountains can be accessed by a 4WD car, as the road is steep and unpaved. Located 16 mi (25 km) from the city of Humahuaca, the range has a high altitude of 15,620 ft (4,761 m). Tours to Hornocal are available from Buenos Aires. A taxi ride to Hornocal can also be hired in Salta.
Practical info
What makes the Hornocal Mountains stand out as a natural wonder?
Hornocal Mountain, also known as Serranía de Hornocal, is a beautiful landscape in northwest Argentina, featuring 14 colorful mountains with rocks formed about 600 million years ago. The red and orange hues of the rocks are due to the various mineral sediments that are exposed by erosion, making it one of Argentina's most photographed locations. Show more
What are the weather patterns in northern Argentina, and when would Hornocal be at its peak?
The subtropical climate in northern Argentina makes Hornocal accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is the dry season from April to October. Summers are humid, while winters are mild, with temperatures averaging at 70 °F (21 °C) and 55 °F (13 °C), respectively. Being sunny almost every day, Hornocal is always inviting. Show more
What is Yacoraite, and what role did it play in the formation of the Hornocal Mountains?
Yacoraite is a unique Mesozoic geologic formation made up of limestone rocks formed over 600 million years ago. It stretches along the Andes from Salta to Humahuaca and contains fossil records, including dinosaur remains. This formation played a vital role in the natural formation of the Hornocal Mountains, which showcases a unique beauty derived from the traces of mineral sediments in the rocks that are visible in layers exposed by erosion. Show more
Is there a specific time to visit Hornocal Mountains, and what equipment is needed to access it?
While Hornocal Mountains is accessible year-round due to the subtropical climate, the dry season from April to October is perfect for visiting due to light rainfall and better visibility. Visitors will need a 4WD car since the route is steep and unpaved, and the mountain range is situated 16 miles (25 km) from Humahuaca. At an altitude of 15,620 feet (4761 meters), visitors need to plan their visit and be cautious of sudden weather changes during the drive. Show more
How can tourists get to the Hornocal Mountains from Salta or Buenos Aires, and how long will the trip take?
Accessing the Hornocal Mountains in northwest Argentina is possible through Buenos Aires or Salta. It takes an approximately four-hour scenic drive from Salta to Hornocal, where visitors can take a taxi ride. It's essential to plan your visit, as weather changes can occur suddenly, causing landslides that block the unpaved roads. Regular and well-guided tours of the area are available from Buenos Aires. Show more
