Epic Rides in Argentina – Salta to Quebrada de Humahuaca
This ride starts in Salta, in the northwest Argentina. Shortly after leaving the city, you’ll find yourself in a remarkable jungle which only last an hour before you’re transported into a landscape of red rocks similar to Utah in the USA.
The road is superb, as of 2017 is new and has very little traffic.
Location
From the south, Salta.
From the north, Tres Cruces
Type of Road
As of 2017, mostly all paved
When is the best time to Ride?
September to May.
GPS Tracking Map
My tracking from Salta to Quebrada de Humahuaca. Tracking files can be downloaded here. (GPX/KML)
Elevation Profile
Highlights
Stunning Landscapes
From lush rich green forests to landscapes straight out of the roadrunner cartoon, the landscapes here do not disappoint. Once you arrive to the valley (Quebrada de Humahuaca) you’ll find amazing coloured mounatins and great village indigenous villages. Check out my post on Quebrada de Humahuaca.
Iruya
Iruya is a small mountain outside the Quebrada de Humahuaca, but is well worth the ride. You can check out this separate post on Iruya.
Time Lapse Video of the Road to Iruya
Serranía de Hornocal
The Serranía de Hornocal are a range of mountains located 25 kilometers from the city of Humahuaca in the Argentine province of Jujuy. Exposed in the range is the limestone formation called Yacoraite that extends from Salta, Argentina, through the Argentine Quebrada de Humahuaca and then through the Bolivian Altiplano to Peru.
The ride to serranis de hornocal is all dirt with some amazing dramatic scenery. When you finally reach the colored mountains, you’ll be at 4761 meters above sea level.
Time Lapse Video of Serranía de Hornocal
Why is it a ‘Best Ride’
This part of Argentina was easily my favorite. It’s full of earthy landscapes, rich culture, good roads and colorful little towns. The weather is mild, even though you are sometimes at 4000m above sea level. Also from here, your options for onward rides are endless. I decided to head west towards Argentina’s own salt flats and then over the Andes into Chile.
