Private transfer Salta – Purmamarca and Tilcara

Most visitors to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, the World Heritage valley in Jujuy province, stay in one of two places: Purmamarca, a tiny village under the Hill of Seven Colours, or Tilcara, a livelier town a little further north. From Salta the transfer crosses into the neighbouring province, passes San Salvador de Jujuy and climbs the valley on Ruta Nacional 9.

Choosing between the two

• Purmamarca is a short detour off the main road. Narrow dirt streets, a craft market on the square and the coloured hill rising behind the houses. Small and quiet after dark.
• Tilcara has more hotels and restaurants, museums, live folk music and the Pucará, a pre-Hispanic fortress on a hilltop. It works better as a base for several days.

Between them lies Maimará, with the striped slopes known as the Painter’s Palette visible from the road. If you are staying in Tilcara, you can ask for a stop in Purmamarca on the way.

Two ways out of Salta

The usual route is by highway to San Salvador de Jujuy. There is also the old mountain road between the two cities, narrow and full of bends through forest. It is slower and a poor choice for large vehicles or for anyone prone to car sickness. Ask at booking if you would like to take it.

Altitude and pace

Both villages are above 2,000 metres, and Tilcara is the higher one. Coming up from Salta, walk slowly on the first day and keep plans light. If you have a health condition, talk to your doctor before the trip.

Crowded dates

At Carnival, in Easter week and during the July winter holidays the valley fills up and driving inside the villages becomes slow. Book early and send us the exact address of your accommodation.