Descending from the rarefied air of the Salinas Grandes, and the 4100 meter pass a few kilometers beyond, one enters Jujuy.
Jujuy borders on Chile to the west and Bolivia to the north, the province of Formosa to the east, and Salta to the south. Only a few kilometers drive along a high altitude mountain road, which consists mainly of very tight s-curves along precipices and gorges, we emerge from a thick layer of cloud causing almost zero visibility, into clear air again. In the distance, the coloured mountains which give the little town of Pumarmarca its distinct and well known dramatic background.
Pumarmarca is a small colonial town, which flourishes through tourist trade, as witnessed by many
newly constructed holiday residences, hostels at every corner, souvenir shops, a host of cafes and restaurants and extensive hiking trails all around the imposing mountains which surround the village. Seven different colours prevail in the geological formations, and they provide a colourful palette which enchants the visitor's eye.
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| Approach to Pumamarca along highway 51... |
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| Photos cannot truly reflect the burst of colours of these magnificent crags... |
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| The stark dry slopes contrast with lush greenery within the village limits |
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| One needs at least one photo to be able to pronounce and write village names, which originate from native language.. |
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El Refugio de Coquena, the stay for the night in Pumarmarca
www.elrefugiodecoquena.com.ar
Coquena is a norther Deity. he is the protector of vicuna and guanaco herds, and watches his animals from high above the earth. One only knows him by his whistling breath. His territory is lost to sight, and his realm extends as far, as the very grandeur of the Andes. Whoever encounters this Deity turns into air, into a spirit... |
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| Flowering gardens surround the little hotel. |
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| One of two hotel pets, one a brown and the other a spotted llama |
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| Just behind the towns' built up area, small pastures for horses, sheep, goats and cows, as well as patches of maize and other vegetables |
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| Senior's hall in downtown Pumarmarca |
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| A few of the colourful mountainsides... |
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| This town is still pre-cobble stone age, all roads are plain dirt - in other words: dust |
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| Picturesque vistas from every corner.... |
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| Throughout the day different parts of the surroundings are lit up by brilliant sunshine.... |
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| Flowers everywhere, despite the arid environment... |
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| Most buildings, walls and retaining fences are built of adobe - raw material is definitely available. |
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| And tomorrow, an excursion to 'the centre of town' of Pumarmarca |
