Laguna de la Paleta

A high-altitude lake surrounded by colorful mineral-laden mountainsides creating dramatic multicolored reflections. The remote location and pristine environment make it perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking untouched wilderness.

Things to do

• High-Altitude Lake Photography — Capture the stunning multicolored reflections in the mineral-rich waters as the light changes throughout the day, with the surrounding peaks creating dramatic backdrops.
• Trekking the Surrounding Ridges — Hike the mountain trails encircling the lagoon to explore the vibrant ochre, red, and purple mineral deposits exposed in the rock formations.
• Mineralogy Exploration — Study the diverse mineral compositions that create the lagoon's distinctive coloration and examine exposed geological layers on nearby slopes.
• Sunrise or Sunset Viewing — Time your visit for dawn or dusk when the alpenglow illuminates the mineral-stained mountainsides and creates the most vibrant color reflections in the water.
• Wildlife Observation — Search for high-altitude Andean fauna including vizcachas, Andean foxes, and native bird species adapted to the sparse vegetation of this remote ecosystem.
• Acclimatization Hikes — Take shorter walks around the lagoon perimeter to adjust to the high altitude before attempting longer treks into the surrounding wilderness.

Food to try

• Charquekan — A traditional Andean dish of freeze-dried potatoes mixed with corn and local herbs, lightweight and energizing for high-altitude trekking.
• Locro Jujeño — A hearty stew from Jujuy made with beef, potatoes, corn, and squash, perfect for warming up after cold mountain days in this remote region.
• Empanadas Jujeñas — Baked pastries filled with seasoned beef, olives, and hard-boiled egg, a staple of local cuisine found in nearby mountain villages.
• Quinoa Preparations — Local variations of this native Andean grain served as porridge or in traditional soups, reflecting the region's indigenous agricultural heritage.
• Fresh Trout from Mountain Streams — Freshly caught and grilled trout from the cold-water streams feeding the lagoon, often prepared simply with local herbs and citrus.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Indigenous Pathways — Use established trails and respect traditional routes used by local Indigenous communities for centuries; avoid disturbing archaeological sites or sacred natural features.
• High-Altitude Acclimatization Necessary — Arrive well-hydrated and plan for gradual acclimatization to the extreme altitude (over 4,000 meters) to avoid altitude sickness common in this region.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — Pack layers and rain gear year-round, as mountain weather can shift dramatically within hours, especially in afternoon thunderstorms typical of the Andean highlands.
• Minimal Services Available — This is a true wilderness location with no facilities, shops, or services; bring all necessary supplies, water, and emergency equipment from larger towns like Purmamarca.