Tread the same trails that Viltipoco, a historic leader of the Humahuaca Indigenous people, once walked on our hike. You'll also discover the legacy of this iconic 16th-century figure.
Viltipoco Trails Hike
At 9 am, we'll set off from the Church of Purmamarca towards the paths that the Indigenous leader Viltipoco once travelled.
As we set off on our hike, we'll discuss the Calchaquí Wars. This chapter of history, which took place in the middle of the 16th century, saw the Spaniards wage war against several indigenous peoples, such as the Humauacas, who were led by Vitlipoco. After the fall of the Inca empire, this commander managed to hold out in Purmamarca's colourful mountains for 60 years.
While we learn about the story of Viltipoco, we'll walk along a dry river bed and admire Pumamarca's scenery. This is an area of extraordinary beauty where we'll also discover the geological processes that took place here over four million years ago.
The route will continue in a narrow valley, which will serve as a starting point for us to learn more about Andean cosmovision. In addition, we'll observe the fauna and flora endemic to this area. We'll learn to distinguish one plant species from another and discuss how many of these plants have been used as food and natural medicine since the time of Viltipoco.
Between 1 and 2 pm, we'll return to the starting point in Purmamarca.