Welcome to Purmamarca, a charming village nestled at the foot of the stunning Cerro de los Siete Colores in Northern Argentina. This vibrant town is a popular tourist destination and renowned for its indigenous population, colorful artisan market, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or foodie, Purmamarca offers a plethora of activities to cater to every interest. From exploring ancient ruins to indulging in mouth-watering regional cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque village. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Purmamarca!
The Beauty of Purmamarca and Its Surroundings
Before we delve into the best things to do in Purmamarca, let’s take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds this captivating village.
- Cerro de los Siete Colores: The iconic Hill of the Seven Colors is a sight to behold, with its vibrant hues of reds, pinks, golds, and greens. Take a leisurely stroll along the Paseo de los Colorados trail for breathtaking views of this natural wonder.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Purmamarca serves as the gateway to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO-listed valley renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this region as you explore its ancient landmarks and picturesque landscapes.
- Indigenous Culture: The indigenous population of Purmamarca adds a unique charm to the village, with their traditional handicrafts and warm hospitality. Don’t miss the daily artisan market in the main plaza, where you can find authentic goods made by local artisans.
Top 15 Things to Do in Purmamarca
Shop at the Artisan Market: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of the local handicraft fair, where you can find a variety of woven goods, ceramics, textiles, and more. Don’t forget to haggle for the best deals and bring home some alpaca and llama wool garments as souvenirs.
Explore Cerro de Los Siete Colores: Embark on a visually stunning journey along the Paseo de los Colorados trail to witness the breathtaking layers of sediment that give the Hill of the Seven Colors its name. Capture the magical hues of this natural masterpiece in your photographs.
Visit Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima: Step inside the historic whitewashed church dating back to 1648 and admire the centuries-old paintings depicting the life of Santa Rosa de Lima. Don’t miss the ancient Algarrobo tree outside, believed to be centuries old.
Indulge in Regional Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Northern Argentina with dishes like empanadas, locro, tamales, humitas, and llama meat. Sample local specialties at Comidas Gabriel, Los Morteros, Hotel La Comarca, and Restaurante La Posta.
Explore Salinas Grandes: Embark on a day trip to the Salinas Grandes salt flats, one of the largest in the world. Marvel at the surreal landscape of reflective salt basins and bring home some salt carvings as unique souvenirs.
Drive the Quebrada de Humahuaca: Embark on a scenic drive through the multicolored valley of Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover ancient Inca trade routes, historical sites, and vibrant pre-colonial towns along the way.
Visit Tilcara: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Tilcara, a vibrant village along the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Explore the Pucará de Tilcara fortification, visit the Museo Arqueológico, and enjoy traditional music and dancing at local bars and restaurants.
Discover Museo en Los Cerros: Experience contemporary art in the midst of ancient towns at Museo en Los Cerros. Explore photography exhibitions by local artists and unwind in the peaceful library surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Embark on a Llama Trek: Join Caravana de Llamas for a unique llama-trekking adventure through the mountains. Let the llamas set the pace as you hike, camp, and commune with nature while enjoying picnic meals in the great outdoors.
Explore Humahuaca: Visit the pre-colonial town of Humahuaca for its whitewashed cathedral, archaeological ruins, and vibrant artisan markets. Discover the rich cultural heritage of this charming village and enjoy scenic walks along the Río Grande.
Visit the Cabildo: Admire the traditional architecture of the Cabildo, a historic government building in Purmamarca. Explore its cultural displays and exhibitions, and capture the unique charm of this well-preserved structure.
Experience Live Music: Immerse yourself in the local music scene with performances at Peña el Rincón de Claudia Vilte, Tierra de Colores, Don Heriberto, and Entre Amigos. Enjoy folkloric dances, traditional music, and delicious regional cuisine as you soak up the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Cemetery: Discover the cultural traditions of Purmamarca at the vibrant village cemetery. Witness the colorful customs, wooden crosses, and intricate graves that reflect the blend of Andean beliefs and Catholicism in this unique setting.
Hike to Cerro Morado and Mirador Geológico: Venture on scenic hikes to Cerro Morado for panoramic views of the Cerro de los Siete Colores and Purmamarca’s adobe rooftops. Explore the Mirador Geológico for alternative perspectives of the surrounding landscapes.
Tour Bodega Fernando Dupont: Delve into the world of high-altitude winemaking at Bodega Fernando Dupont, a boutique vineyard in Maimará. Learn about environmentally-friendly techniques and taste award-winning wines amidst lavender fields and picturesque hillsides.
Conclusion
From shopping at the vibrant artisan market to exploring ancient ruins and indulging in regional cuisine, Purmamarca offers a plethora of exciting activities for travelers. Whether you’re captivated by the natural beauty of Cerro de los Siete Colores or intrigued by the rich cultural heritage of the region, this charming village is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart. So, pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey to Purmamarca, and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Northern Argentina. Bon voyage!