The Northwest: Places to Explore

Purmamarca

Nestled in the shadow of craggy rocks and multicolored, cactus-studded hills—with the occasional low-flying cloud happening by—the colonial village of Purmamarca (altitude 7,200 feet/2,195 meters) is one of the best bases from which to explore the Quebrada. Its few lights and dry air also make it a great place for stargazing.

Here blazing red adobe replaces the white stucco used in architecture elsewhere, and the simple, square buildings play off the matching red rock. Come quick, before it's completely transformed from a one-horse town with basic stores and a few artisans selling their wares in the pleasant, tree-shaded plaza into an exclusive destination.

Purmamarca at a Glance

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