Serranías del Hornocal (Fourteen Colors Mountain)

A stunning multicolored mountain formation in the Andes displaying vibrant mineral-based hues ranging from red to blue to purple. It has become increasingly popular with photographers and trekkers seeking Argentina's most visually striking natural landscape.

Things to do

• Sunrise Trek to Viewpoint — Hike to the main viewing platform in pre-dawn darkness to witness the mineral colors illuminate dramatically as the sun rises, a 9.3 km round trip from the trailhead.
• Photography Sessions — Capture the mountain's 14 distinct color bands—reds, greens, purples, blues, and oranges—which shift in intensity throughout the day depending on light angle and weather conditions.
• Geological Interpretation — Observe exposed mineral deposits including iron oxide (reds), copper compounds (greens and blues), and manganese oxides that create the natural palette across the 2,400-meter-high formation.
• High-Altitude Acclimatization Walk — Take a slower-paced exploration around the viewpoint area at 4,348 meters elevation to adapt to altitude while examining mineral compositions and rock formations up close.
• Sunset Photography — Return to the viewpoint in late afternoon to capture warm golden light transforming the colors differently than sunrise, with clearer skies typical in late afternoon.
• Multi-Day Trekking Circuit — Undertake longer treks connecting Serranías del Hornocal to neighboring peaks like Paleta del Pintor and other colored mountain formations across the Andes range.

Food to try

• Empanadas de Carne — Hand-held pastries filled with spiced ground beef, onions, and local herbs, sold at roadside vendors and mountain lodges throughout the region.
• Quinoa Stew (Locro) — A hearty high-altitude dish combining quinoa, potatoes, corn, and meat with cumin and chili peppers, essential fuel for trekkers in Jujuy's mountainous terrain.
• Charque (Dried Meat) — Sun-dried llama or beef jerky seasoned with regional spices, a traditional protein source used by Andean communities and modern trekkers alike.
• Fresh Mountain Trout — Local streams yield freshly caught and grilled trout, often prepared simply with lemon and local herbs at mountain lodges near the trail.
• Coca Tea (Té de Coca) — Brewed from coca leaves, this traditional beverage aids altitude acclimatization and is offered at nearly every rest stop and lodge along the hiking routes.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude Acclimatization Essential — The 4,348-meter elevation causes significant altitude sickness; arrive a day or two early in nearby Purmamarca or Maimará to acclimate before attempting the full trek.
• Early Morning Departures — Local guides and tour operators depart between 3:00 and 4:00 AM to reach the summit by sunrise when colors are most vivid and weather is most stable.
• Respect Indigenous Andean Traditions — The mountain holds spiritual significance for local indigenous communities; show respect by not removing rocks, leaving no trace, and learning about local cultural practices.
• Weather-Dependent Scheduling — Afternoon rains and clouds are common; confirm trips with local guides the evening before and be prepared to reschedule, as visibility can disappear within minutes during weather changes.