GUIDE TO VISITING CERRO DE LOS SIETE COLORES: ARGENTINA
Cerro de Los Siete Colores (Hill of the 7 Colours) located in the picturesque little town of Purmamarca north of Salta, is composed of 7 different colours derived from different types of rock formed over millions of years. This breath-taking sight was one of my reasons (along with Salinas Grandes) for visiting the region. Stunning from every angle and corner, I just had to go!
How to visit Cerro de Los Siete Colores
My second day in Salta I wandered into town eager to book a tour to start visiting the beautiful region. Just off the main square, you'll find tour companies many of whom selling the same packages. A lovely couple I had met on my flight to Salta recommended Tiamar, as their tours normally include an English speaking guide. Without too much shopping around, I booked with them, excited to go!
The cost of the tour was 850 pesos which is around $30. Keep in mind that Argentina has an inflation rate of around 30% at the moment and prices go up regularly.
Alternatively, you can also rent a car which will give you the freedom to do things on your own schedule. If you're comfortable driving, I'd recommend this as one of the drawbacks of doing a tour was the rush of doing everything. For more information on renting a car in Salta, you can check out this post.
Purmamarca + Cerro de Los Siete Colores
Stunned and amazed by the landscape in Argentina, it couldn't be more beautiful. Our first stop in Purmamarca was definitely the highlight of the whole trip and totally worth the stop! Whilst in Purmamarca definitely wander around. I try empanadas wherever I go and the ones in Purmamarca tasted delicious!Wandering around and admiring the view from the hilltops, chilling with llamas was so much fun!
Those colours!!!
Tilcara
An archaeological site, this was a short stopping point to admire the beautiful views and mountains.
Humahuaca
A little colonial town, nestled in the province of Jujuy was a great stopping point for lunch. I love how authentic and different the way of life is away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.Many of the local people here make a living from tourism. You'll find ceramics and sweaters fabricated from soft llama wool where ever you go. I travelled during the Argentine winter holiday so unsurprisingly most of the tourists were from southern Argentina wanted to escape winter.
Lunch in Humahuaca
Handy tips:
Whilst the tour was fun and definitely more convenient, the downside was that it was rushed and we only had a few moments to explore and take photos. I would have preferred to have rented a car and stayed the night.
Be prepared for a long day. The tour buses pick you up at 7 am from your hostel and drop you off at around 7/8pm.
If you pay for a tour in cash, it is generally cheaper than paying for it with a credit card.
Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡
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