Serranías del Hornocal

A remote high-altitude mountain range featuring dramatic multicolored rock formations and vast panoramic views of the Andes. This pristine wilderness area is increasingly popular for trekking and offers some of Argentina's most dramatic and untouched landscapes.

Things to do

• Paleta del Pintor Trek — A full-day guided hike through the famous Palette of the Painter formation, showcasing layers of red, green, blue, and purple mineral-rich rocks at approximately 4,895 meters elevation.
• Serranías Summit Climb — A challenging multi-day trek to the highest peaks of the range, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Andes and surrounding valleys.
• Sunrise Photography at Maitén — Wake before dawn to capture the alpenglow illuminating the multicolored rock formations from the Maitén viewpoint, a popular spot among landscape photographers.
• Horseback Trekking — Explore the backcountry routes on horseback with local guides who navigate the high-altitude terrain and remote valleys inaccessible by foot alone.
• Geological Study Tour — Join an expert-led interpretation of the area's unique mineral composition and geological formations that create the distinctive color variations.
• Overnight High-Altitude Camp — Experience sleeping at extreme elevation (4,500+ meters) in mountain refugios or base camps while acclimatizing and observing star-filled night skies.

Food to try

• Empanadas de carne — Handmade pastry pockets filled with local beef, onions, and spices, typically prepared by rural families and served warm at lodges and trailheads.
• Charqui — Dried, salted strips of Andean beef or llama meat that serves as high-protein sustenance for trekkers navigating the demanding mountain terrain.
• Locro de papa — A hearty stew of potatoes, corn, and meat traditional to northwestern Argentina, served hot at mountain lodges to warm visitors after cold-weather hikes.
• Fresh trout from mountain streams — Locally caught Andean trout prepared simply grilled or pan-fried, available at certain lodges near water sources in the region.
• Humita — A traditional dish of fresh corn paste wrapped in corn husks and steamed, representing indigenous Andean cuisine adapted for high-altitude conditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude acclimatization is essential — Allow at least one to two days at intermediate elevations before attempting the full trek, as Serranías del Hornocal sits above 4,500 meters where altitude sickness is common.
• Hire local guides for safety — The terrain is remote and weather conditions change rapidly; local guides from nearby towns like Purmamarca are essential for navigation and emergency support.
• Respect indigenous heritage — The region holds significance for indigenous Andean communities; ask permission before photographing local people and purchase crafts directly from artisans to support the community.
• Pack for extreme weather variability — Temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer, and afternoon storms develop quickly; bring layered clothing, sun protection, and weather-appropriate gear regardless of season.