Humahuaca Carnival
Come to one of the most traditional and colorful fests of the Quebrada de Humahuaca.
The magic of the comparsas invites you. The rhythm of drums gets you dancing. Young children, adults and the elderly all parade along the streets and share their happiness with you. Amidst multi-color hills, discover this popular fest of music and tastes, masks and costumes, dance and jingle bells, ancient customs and rituals that honor the fertility of mother earth. Feel part of this celebration of life.
Enjoy the color of the comparsas, the art of copla singers, the costumes of the dancers, the music of local instruments: erkenchos and anatas, charangos and drums. Enjoy a fest that starts by digging out the devil, Coludo or Pujllay, and ends by burying it down a hole, which symbolizes the mouth of Pachamama, accompanied by a prayer for fun for the following year. Carnival is waiting for you.
Geographic location: Humahuaca. Province of Jujuy
How to get there: by plane, to Gobernador Horacio Guzmán International Airport. By land, the main access is via Ruta Nacional 9. There are several bus lines that arrive at the capital of the province and from there, connection to other destinations within the province are available.
Area: 53,219 sq km Average altitude: 3,433 meters above sea level. Climate: dry and cold.
Recommended length of stay: 4 to 6 days.
Recommended clothing and gear: around Carnival, the weather is usually hot during the day and cool at night, so a light jacket to wear at night is enough. Take also comfortable – preferably light-colored- clothes, insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or cap, comfortable footwear, appropriate for the activity you will be doing, and an umbrella or raincoat.
What to do: tour various districts in the province, especially in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, where most carnival celebrations are held.
Tips: book accommodation in advance as many people take part in these celebrations and hotels usually get booked up.