Garganta del Diablo — main view in Tilcara, Argentina

Argentina · Jujuy Province · Tilcara

Garganta del Diablo (Tilcara, Jujuy)

Devil's Throat · Natural Gorge · Quebrada de Humahuaca

UNESCO World Heritage Natural Gorge & Waterfall Altitude ~2,450m

📍 Paraje Garganta del Diablo, Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina

🧭 CJ4G+55 Tilcara, Jujuy

📞 +54 388 422-1325

🏛️ Natural Wonder · Gorge & Waterfall

How to get there
Plan Your Visit View on Google Maps
🚗By vehicle: ~6 km from Tilcara🥾On foot: ~4 km trail🌊Waterfall: ~15 m high💵Entrance: paid (community-run)🏞️Community: Ayllu Mama Qolla🚻Facilities: toilets on site
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
5,851 reviews · Google Reviews

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Welcome to Garganta del Diablo, widely recognized as the central Devil's Throat landmark of Tilcara. Located in the heart of Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina, this destination serves as a primary hub for travellers exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca region.

About Garganta del Diablo

Garganta del Diablo is a high-altitude natural gorge and waterfall trail just outside Tilcara, at roughly 2,450 m above sea level, carved by seasonal water flows through layered ochre sedimentary rock. It is commonly shortened to “Devil's Throat” and is not the same place as the Iguazu Falls viewpoint of the same name.

Location & How to Visit the Devil's Throat in Tilcara

The site is located at Paraje Garganta del Diablo, Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina (Google plus code CJ4G+55, coordinates -23.5888421, -65.3863963). The trailhead is a short walk or transfer from Tilcara town centre, with a round-trip hike of about 2–3 hours.

Landmarks & Attractions Around the Devil's Throat

When visiting Garganta del Diablo, travellers can easily explore surrounding historical landmarks and points of interest, including the Pucará de Tilcara archaeological site and the Quebrada de Humahuaca World Heritage corridor.

History & Significance of Garganta del Diablo

The wider Quebrada de Humahuaca was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, recording ten thousand years of cultural continuity from hunter-gatherers and the Inca to the colonial era. The gorge is both a geological spectacle and an entry point for understanding Andean human–landscape relations.

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Is this the Tilcara Garganta del Diablo?

Yes. This guide is dedicated to the Garganta del Diablo of Tilcara, Jujuy Province, near the Quebrada de Humahuaca. It is not the same as the Garganta del Diablo at Iguazú Falls, nor the formation of the same name near Cafayate, Salta.

Compare with Iguazú and Salta →

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Verified visitor information

The figures below come from the official Jujuy Tourism Board guide to the Quebrada de Humahuaca. We do not invent numbers: distance, waterfall and community management are documented there.

🚗
By vehicle
~6 km from Tilcara
🥾
On foot
~4 km trail
🌊
Waterfall
~15 m high
💵
Entrance
paid (community-run)
🏞️
Community
Ayllu Mama Qolla
🚻
Facilities
toilets on site

The site lies on land of the Comunidad Aborigen Ayllu Mama Qolla, which maintains the trail, receives visitors and charges entrance. From the water intake it is about a 20-minute walk along the riverbed to the natural waterfall.

Source: Jujuy Tourism Board — Manual for Certified Guides (Quebrada de Humahuaca) · Last updated: October 2026

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Detailed guides

🚗
How to get to Garganta del Diablo
From Tilcara: on foot, by car, distance, time and map.
🥾
Garganta del Diablo trekking
Distance, duration, difficulty, altitude, waterfall and what to bring.
🎟️
Entrance & opening hours
Price, hours and how long the visit takes.

01

Nature's Masterpiece

Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders near Tilcara in Argentina's Jujuy Province. It is a narrow gorge carved by rushing water over millions of years, where waterfalls plunge into the depths and echo between rust-red rock walls. Birth of a Geological Marvel Garganta del Diablo lies within a tributary of the Quebrada de Humahuaca at an altitude of roughly 2,450 metres. The gorge walls rise several dozen metres high, narrowing in places to barely a metre and a half wide. The rock displays layered bands of deep red, orange and ochre — a record of hundreds of millions of years of geological deposition. Water as Sculptor The gorge was formed by the uplift of the Andes combined with relentless river erosion. During the summer melt and rainy season, water volumes surge dramatically, and fast-flowing torrents laden with grit and stone cut aggressively into the bedrock — slowly carving the deep crevice we see today. Standing on the gorge floor and gazing up at the sliver of sky above is a humbling experience that reveals nature as the greatest sculptor of all. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site In 2003 the Quebrada de Humahuaca — home to Garganta del Diablo — was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 155 km-long valley bears witness to 10,000 years of cultural evolution, from prehistoric hunter-gatherers through the Inca Empire to the Spanish colonial era. Garganta del Diablo, as one of the gorge's most visually dramatic natural features, draws hikers and photographers from around the globe.

Gorge Legends & Andean Myths

In the Andean worldview, every landscape feature carries an ancient story. The name 'Devil's Throat' itself is wrapped in dramatic folklore.

A poignant local legend explains how Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) got its name.

Long ago, a beautiful indigenous maiden fell in love with a young man from the colonial settlers. Her father — the respected chief of the tribe — fiercely opposed the cross-cultural romance. On a stormy night, the young man tried to elope with the maiden.

Enraged, the chief prayed to Pachamama (Mother Earth) for punishment. The earth suddenly split open, creating a bottomless gorge. The young man fell into the abyss, and the maiden lay weeping at the cliff's edge. It is said her tears became the waterfall, and the roar echoing through the gorge is the devil himself howling at the thwarted love.

Another, more straightforward version holds that during the flood season the thunder of water crashing against the rock walls sounds exactly like a devil's roar — hence the name 'Devil's Throat'. Whichever telling you prefer, the name perfectly captures the raw, awe-inspiring power of this natural wonder.

In the Andean belief system, Pachamama is the supreme mother goddess who presides over fertility, agriculture and all earthly life. Every 1 August, the entire province of Jujuy celebrates the Pachamama ceremony.

The Tilcara area around Garganta del Diablo is considered a place where Pachamama's power is especially strong. Before setting out on a gorge hike, local people often pour a few drops of chicha (maize beer) onto the ground or place coca leaves as an offering to Mother Earth, asking for a safe journey.

The water that flows endlessly through the gorge is seen as Pachamama's lifeblood — sustaining all life on the Andean high plateau. Every August, villagers bring food and drink to the gorge entrance to perform the simple yet reverent Corpachada (offering to the earth), keeping the most ancient pact with Mother Earth alive.

In the folklore of north-western Argentina, Coquena is a small, elf-like spirit who protects wild animals, especially vicuñas and guanacos. He wears a traditional poncho and a wide-brimmed hat, wandering silently through the deepest reaches of the canyon.

On the cliffs around Garganta del Diablo you may occasionally spot wild guanacos. Locals say Coquena is herding them, and only those with a pure heart can catch a glimpse of the guardian spirit.

Coquena punishes hunters who kill animals recklessly, yet guides kind-hearted shepherds to safe water and paths. In this rugged gorge country, the legend reminds every visitor: treat the creatures of this land with kindness, and you honour the precious legacy of the ancestors.

Natural Trivia & Cultural Vignettes

Garganta del Diablo's Sister Sites Interestingly, Argentina has more than one natural feature named 'Garganta del Diablo'. The most famous is undoubtedly the Devil's Throat at Iguazú Falls (Cataratas del Iguazú) — one of the world's most spectacular waterfall systems. While the Tilcara Garganta del Diablo is considerably smaller in scale, its high-altitude slot-canyon setting and rust-coloured rock walls give it a completely different and equally mesmerising aesthetic. A Geological Painter's Palette The rock walls of Garganta del Diablo display a stunning range of colours — from deep red and burnt orange to violet-brown and pale grey. These hues come from minerals deposited during different geological periods: iron-oxide-rich red layers, manganese-tinted purple bands, and pale calcium-carbonate streaks, together forming a 'geological oil painting' millions of years in the making. The Gorge Under the Stars Far from urban light pollution, the area around Garganta del Diablo offers superb stargazing. From May to September (the Southern Hemisphere winter), the Milky Way is vividly visible in the clear, dry high-altitude night sky. Local tour operators offer night-time stargazing hikes, letting visitors contemplate the immensity of the cosmos in the gorge's profound silence. Home of the Andean Condor The cliffs of Garganta del Diablo are an important habitat for the Andean condor (Cóndor Andino). With a wingspan reaching three metres, this majestic bird is a symbol of the Andes and is regarded by indigenous cultures as a sacred messenger between heaven and earth. Lucky visitors may spot them riding the gorge's thermal updrafts — an unforgettable sight.

From Sedimentary Layers to World Heritage: A Short Timeline

If Garganta del Diablo is understood only as a hiking destination, its longer formation story disappears. This timeline reconnects geology, water and human presence on one historical line.

Palaeozoic–Mesozoic

Sedimentary strata accumulate

Alternating sandstone, mudstone and conglomerate formed the layered bedrock later cut by water.

Andean uplift

Relief rises and fractures develop

Mountain building reshaped local gradients and drainage, increasing erosive energy across the region.

Since the late Pleistocene

Seasonal floods carve the gorge

Snowmelt and rainy-season flows repeatedly deepened narrow channels and shaped the waterfall corridor seen today.

Pre-Columbian period

Embedded in Tilcara’s wider movement landscape

Nearby routes, water access and defensible terrain connected the gorge to long-term settlement and circulation patterns.

2003

Quebrada de Humahuaca enters the UNESCO list

The site becomes legible within a broader heritage framework that links landscape, routes and cultural continuity.

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Geological Formation & Natural Wonder

Garganta del Diablo is a masterpiece sculpted by nature over millions of years. Its unique geological structure not only offers spectacular views but also provides a natural laboratory for studying Andean orogeny.

Gorge Structure

Garganta del Diablo is a classic slot canyon — far deeper than it is wide. The gorge extends roughly 500 metres in length, reaches depths of about 40 metres, and narrows to as little as 1.5 metres at its tightest point. Sunlight pours through the narrow crack overhead, casting ever-changing patterns of light and shadow on the rust-red rock walls and creating an almost surreal spatial experience. A perennial stream runs along the gorge floor. During the rainy season (typically December to March), the water surges dramatically, forming powerful waterfalls; in the dry season it slows to a crystal-clear brook that visitors can wade through. The walls have been polished glass-smooth by millennia of flowing water, displaying beautiful streamlined textures.

Rock Layers & Colours

The walls of Garganta del Diablo expose a magnificent cross-section of sedimentary strata, chronicling hundreds of millions of years of geological history. The rock is predominantly alternating layers of sandstone, mudstone and conglomerate, deposited from the Palaeozoic to the Mesozoic eras. The most striking feature is the colour variation — from deep red (rich in iron oxide) through orange-gold (iron hydroxides) to violet (manganese minerals) and pale grey (calcium carbonate) — as if the earth itself has been dyed in layers by time. These colours are most vivid at sunrise and sunset, making the gorge a dream subject for photographers.

Hydrological Features

The water flowing through the gorge originates from snowmelt and rainfall high in the Andes. It is rich in minerals and takes on a subtle metallic sheen, especially after passing through the red rock strata. The waterfall is one of Garganta del Diablo's most iconic features. During the wet season, water plunges from a height of about 15 metres, crashing onto the rocks below and filling the gorge with mist — rainbows often arch across the canyon in the sunlight. Even during the dry season, the sight of thin rivulets sliding slowly down the polished rock walls has a quiet, meditative beauty all its own.

Key Facts

Name
Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat)
Location
Near Tilcara, Jujuy Province, Argentina
Geological Age
Palaeozoic–Mesozoic sedimentary rock
Altitude
approx. 2,450 m
Gorge Depth
up to 40 m
Protected Area
Quebrada de Humahuaca (UNESCO 2003)
Type
Slot Canyon / Waterfall / Natural Wonder

03

What to Experience at Garganta del Diablo

Garganta del Diablo blends gorge hiking, waterfall viewing and breathtaking Andean scenery. The experiences below are beloved by nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventure travellers alike.

1

Gorge Hike & Wade

Follow the trail along the gorge floor, wading through the stream as the rock walls close in around you. Gaze up at the ribbon of sky above — the slot-canyon effect is truly awe-inspiring. The sound of rushing water, birdsong echoing off the walls and the cool spray on your face make this the most intimate way to connect with nature.

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Waterfall Watching & Photography

During the rainy season (December–March), Garganta del Diablo's waterfall is at its most powerful. A curtain of water thunders down from over ten metres, filling the gorge with mist. Rainbows frequently arch across the waterfall — a photographer's dream. Bring waterproof protection for your camera gear.

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Birdwatching & Andean Condors

The cliffs of Garganta del Diablo are home to the Andean condor, whose three-metre wingspan makes it the true king of the Andean skies. Bring binoculars and you may also spot Andean flamingos and numerous hummingbird species riding the gorge's thermal currents.

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Panoramic Canyon Views

From the high ground at the gorge entrance, the entire Quebrada de Humahuaca unfolds in breathtaking panorama. Layer upon layer of multicoloured mountains shimmer in the sunlight, while the dark crevice of Garganta del Diablo cuts through the foreground — at moments like this, you truly understand why this landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

04

Ecological Conservation

Reading Notes

How to read this page

This page focuses on the Tilcara (Jujuy) gorge and waterfall trail, summarising geomorphology, local terminology and practical hiking notes to support trip planning.

World Heritage context: read the site within the wider Quebrada de Humahuaca corridor
Local terms: short explanations for Pachamama, Corpachada and Pucará
Hiking notes: seasonal water flow, stream crossings, UV exposure and altitude adaptation

As part of the Quebrada de Humahuaca World Heritage Site, Garganta del Diablo's fragile ecosystem deserves the care of every visitor. As an independent non-profit educational guide, we encourage the most respectful approach to exploring this natural wonder.

  • Stay on the trail: follow established paths — do not create new ones, as this causes soil erosion
  • Leave no trace: take all rubbish and waste with you, including biodegradable items like fruit peels and tissues
  • Do not disturb wildlife: do not feed or approach wild animals; especially protect the Andean condor and guanaco
  • Protect the water: the stream in the gorge is a vital water source for downstream communities — do not wash or discard anything in it
  • Quiet exploration: the gorge has a unique acoustic environment — keep noise levels low so everyone can hear nature's sounds
  • Take nothing but photos: do not collect rocks, plants or fossils — leave them where they belong

05

The Eternal Dance of Water & Stone

The magic of Garganta del Diablo lies in the profound dialogue between water and stone over millions of years. Soft water, with relentless persistence, has carved hard rock into a sight that takes the breath away. Two views below capture the majesty of this natural force.

Quebrada de Humahuaca near Devil's Throat in Tilcara

Torrent Through Stone

Pucará de Tilcara near Devil's Throat in Tilcara

Gorge Panorama

06

Plan Your Visit

Garganta del Diablo is open to the public year-round. A half-day visit is recommended to explore it properly. The following information helps you plan with ease.

Opening Hours
Daily: 08:00–18:00 Open year-round (may close in extreme weather) Morning visits are recommended for the best light and to avoid possible afternoon thunderstorms.
Hours may vary by season and weather conditions; check with the local tourist information centre before visiting.
Entrance Fee
An entrance fee applies; the exact price is displayed on site. Argentine residents, students and seniors usually receive discounts. Ticket revenue funds trail maintenance and ecological conservation.
Carry cash (Argentine pesos), as card payments may not be accepted in remote areas.
Suggested Duration
Gorge hike round-trip + photography: about 2–3 hours. In-depth exploration + birdwatching + panoramic shots: allow 4–5 hours.
Combine with Tilcara town, the Hill of Seven Colours (Purmamarca) and the Humahuaca Gorge for a 2–3 day north-western highlands nature journey.
🫁
Altitude
At ~2,450m, take it slowly on arrival, drink plenty of water, and chew coca leaves to ease symptoms.
☀️
Sun Protection
The Andean sun is extreme — wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen.
👟
Waterproof Footwear
You will wade through the gorge stream — sturdy waterproof hiking shoes are a must.
💧
Hydration
The highland air is very dry; carry at least 1 litre of water per person.
Travel Tips & Notes
  • Altitude acclimatisation: the gorge is at ~2,450m. Take it slowly and drink plenty of water
  • Sun protection is essential: the Andean sun is fierce at altitude — use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
  • Wear waterproof shoes: you will need to wade through the stream — waterproof, non-slip hiking shoes or sandals are essential
  • Stay hydrated: the highland climate is very dry; carry at least 1 litre of water per person
  • Waterproof your gear: spray from the waterfall can be heavy — bring waterproof bags for cameras and phones
  • Check the weather: flash floods can occur during the rainy season (Dec–Mar); always check the forecast before heading out

Tilcara Weather & Forecast

The Quebrada de Humahuaca has a dry climate with a wide daily temperature range: sunny days and cold nights. Check current conditions, today’s practical advice and the week ahead before planning your hike.

🌙
12°C
Clear
Feels like 9°C
Humidity29%
Wind4 km/h
Chance of rain84%
UV index0 · Low
Sunrise07:00
Sunset19:21

Rain is possible today; keep your outdoor plans flexible.

Bring rain gear

No weather alerts at the moment

What to wear

  • Big day–night temperature swing: wear layers you can add or remove.

What to do

  • At ~2,465 m: newcomers should walk slowly, drink water and avoid strenuous effort.
  • Outdoor experiences will be limited; gorge trails become slippery.
  • Clear skies: great for hiking the gorge and exploring outdoors.
  • Good visibility: ideal for sunrise, sunset and the gorge’s light.

What to bring

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
  • Plenty of water
  • A jacket
  • A folding umbrella

Risk notes

  • In the rainy season the gorge carries flash-flood and rockfall risk — keep an eye on the forecast.
  • UV peaks around midday: rest indoors or in the shade.
Next 7 days
Today
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84%
22°10°
Sun
⛅
100%
25°8°
Mon
⛅
100%
24°7°
Tue
☀️
82%
27°8°
Wed
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36%
27°10°
Thu
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100%
27°9°
Fri
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98%
25°11°
Updated: Oct 03, 05:33 AM Indicative weather data, subject to change. Please verify before you set out.

07

Practical Facilities & Supplies

The information below is organised by type of facility, so you can judge what services are available around Tilcara town and the gorge trail when planning your trip and packing.

Neutrality notice: this is a non-profit educational site. We list facility types only and do not feature, recommend or rank any specific business. Prices, opening hours and availability should be confirmed on site.

Restrooms

Public restrooms are generally available at the site entrance and in the town centre; facilities inside the gorge trail are limited.

Queues are possible in high season — carrying tissues and hand sanitiser is advisable.

Parking

Paid and free open-air parking areas exist around the town centre and near the site entrance, mostly for smaller vehicles.

Parking fills up in high season; arrive early or use walking/transfer options.

Dining

The town centre offers Andean regional dishes, light meals and cafés, convenient before or after the hike.

At altitude, lighter meals in smaller portions are kinder; avoid alcohol to reduce discomfort.

Lodging

Accommodation types include hostels, family guesthouses, boutique inns and small hotels.

Book ahead and choose places with reliable heating and hot water for cold nights.

Groceries & supplies

Small supermarkets, convenience stores and bakeries sell drinking water, snacks, fruit and sun protection.

Resupply points along the trail are scarce — carry enough water and energy food for the full route.

Fuel & EV charging

The area is served mainly by fuel stations; electric-vehicle charging is limited, so plan longer drives in advance.

Fill up before leaving major towns; mountain stretches are long with sparse services.

Cash & ATMs

Banks and ATMs are available in town, though smaller shops and vendors often prefer cash.

Carry a modest amount of local currency as backup and keep it split in different places.

Medical & first aid

Basic clinics and pharmacies in town handle minor injuries and altitude discomfort; serious cases are referred to the provincial capital.

Bring your usual medication and prescriptions, and watch for altitude-sickness symptoms.

Connectivity

Mobile signal and internet are reasonable in the town centre but weaken noticeably inside the gorge.

Tell someone your plan before entering the trail and download offline maps in advance.

08

Legends & Folklore

In Andean oral tradition, gorges, mountains and springs are alive with spirit. The stories below belong to local folklore and cultural memory rather than scientific findings, yet they are key cultural clues to understanding this land.

The origin of the “Devil’s Throat”

Local storytelling holds that this long, deep gorge is a cleft torn into the mountain by the devil; when the wind passes through the rock walls, its low resonance is described as the devil’s roar — the origin of the name.

Pachamama (Mother Earth)

Pachamama is the Earth Mother revered in Andean belief. Before journeys, planting or building, people often offer a little food, drink or coca leaf in gratitude to the land — a ritual known as corpachada.

Mountain spirits and guardians

Mountains are said to be watched over by guardian spirits (such as Llastay or Coquena) that protect wild vicuñas and llamas; harming or over-hunting these animals was believed to bring the spirits’ punishment.

Tales of hidden “treasure”

Stories of ancient treasure or an “enchanted city” hidden among the rock walls have circulated for generations, reflecting local imagination about pre-Hispanic history and lost civilisations.

09

Geology & Climate: How the Gorge Formed

The landscape of the Quebrada de Humahuaca was shaped by long geological processes. Understanding them helps you read the layered rock walls and vivid colours before you.

Ancient marine sediments

The rock layers flanking the gorge are mostly marine and continental sedimentary rocks hundreds of millions of years old, recording a time when this land lay under the sea and was later uplifted by the Andes.

Uplift and erosion

Andean uplift raised the strata, and river incision plus long-term weathering and erosion gradually carved today’s narrow, steep gorge.

Strata and colour

Different minerals in the layers oxidise into reds, purples, ochres and greys; iron oxides tend to be reddish-brown, so the gorge shows clear colour bands that shift with the light.

Altitude and climate

The gorge core sits at roughly 2,400–2,600 m, with an arid climate, strong sun and a wide day–night temperature range; the rainy season falls in the southern summer (around January–March).

Intense solar radiation

High altitude and dry air make UV unusually strong; use sun protection even when overcast, stay hydrated and acclimatise gradually.

10

Flora, Fauna & Ecology

In this dry, high-altitude environment, distinctive plant and animal communities have evolved. Please keep your distance, do not feed or pick, and respect their habitat.

Characteristic plants

Typical species include tall columnar cacti (cardón), drought-tolerant shrubs (such as tola) and trees used for fuel and building (such as queñoa and churqui), together forming the arid mountain landscape.

Representative animals

The area is home to vicuña, guanaco, domestic llama and the Andean vizcacha, while Andean condors occasionally circle overhead.

Birds and micro-habitats

The gorge and its riverbanks support many highland bird species, and the riverside wetlands are especially valuable in this arid setting.

Cultural and natural value

Because it combines natural scenery with living culture, the Quebrada de Humahuaca was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003.

11

Glossary

A quick reference to terms you may see on signs, panels and in local storytelling.

Pachamama
The “Mother Earth” of Andean belief, a symbol of nature and fertility and a key cultural concept here.
Pucará
A pre-Hispanic defensive settlement or fortress, usually built on high ground; Tilcara has a well-known one.
Quebrada
Spanish for “gorge / deep valley”; the Quebrada de Humahuaca is the region’s great valley.
Apachita
A ceremonial stone cairn at Andean passes or trailside, where travellers leave stones or offerings out of respect.
Corpachada
An offering ritual to Pachamama, expressing gratitude and asking for blessing.
Cardón
The local name for the columnar cactus, an emblematic plant of the arid mountain landscape.

12

Best Time to Visit

Each season offers a different experience; the notes below are general guidance — always check the forecast before you travel.

Dry season May–Sep

Little rain, many clear days and good visibility — a popular peak season for hiking and photography; nights are cold, so bring warm layers.

Rainy season Jan–Mar

Afternoon showers are more likely and the gorge colours are deeper, but watch for slippery trails and temporary closures; check the daily forecast.

Shoulder season Apr / Oct–Dec

Fewer visitors and moderate temperatures make this a good window to avoid crowds, though the day–night range stays wide.

13

Getting to the Garganta del Diablo from Tilcara

✈️ From Jujuy Capital / Airport

The nearest airport is Gobernador Horacio Guzmán International Airport (JUJ), about 113 km from Tilcara. Salta Airport (SLA) is an alternative, about 210 km away.

Self-drive / Rental Car (Recommended)
approx. 1.5 hrs 113 km
• From Jujuy Airport, take National Route 9 (RN-9) northbound
• Drive through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, passing Volcán, Tumbaya and other villages
• Arrive in Tilcara and follow signs to the Garganta del Diablo trailhead
Private transfer (airport or city pick-up)
approx. 1.5–2 hrs ≈113 km
• Book a transfer from JUJ airport or San Salvador de Jujuy
• Travel directly to Tilcara (optionally with scenic stops)
• From Tilcara, continue to the trailhead
Taxi/Remís + bus connection
approx. 2–3 hrs (with transfer) JUJ → terminal → Tilcara
• Take a taxi or Remís from JUJ to the bus terminal in San Salvador de Jujuy
• Buy a ticket to Tilcara (schedules vary)
• From Tilcara, take a taxi/Remís or walk to the trailhead
🚌 Long-distance buses / Public transport

If you are not driving, the usual approach is to reach Tilcara first and then complete the last 5 km to the trailhead. Timetables may change seasonally — check the terminal boards.

San Salvador de Jujuy → Tilcara (bus)

A regular line from the provincial capital to Tilcara.

• Go to the bus terminal in San Salvador de Jujuy
• Buy a ticket to Tilcara (subject to availability)
• From Tilcara, take a taxi/Remís or walk to the trailhead
Salta → Tilcara (bus)

Useful if you are arriving via Salta or combining routes in the north-west.

• Go to the bus terminal in Salta
• Buy a ticket to Tilcara (direct or with stops, depending on the day)
• From Tilcara, continue the last segment to the trailhead
Tilcara → trailhead (last segment)

The trailhead is about 5 km from town; the road is mostly unpaved.

• Use a local taxi/Remís to the car park and entrance
• Alternatively, walk (≈1 hour) or cycle if conditions allow
• Enter the trail following on-site signage
🏘️ From Tilcara Town

Garganta del Diablo is about 5 km outside Tilcara. You can walk (approx. 1 hour), cycle, or take a local taxi. Some tour operators also offer 4x4 guided excursions.

• From Tilcara's main square, follow signs towards Garganta del Diablo
• Follow the dirt road for about 5 km
• Arrive at the car park and trailhead

Transport & Altitude Tips

  • Altitude: Tilcara sits at ~2,450m — allow half a day to acclimatise before hiking the gorge
  • San Salvador de Jujuy is ~85 km from Tilcara (≈1 hour by car)
  • National Route 9 (RN-9) is in good condition and the scenery is spectacular — one of Argentina's most scenic drives
  • Direct long-distance buses run from Salta city to Tilcara (approx. 3.5–4 hours)
  • Combine with Purmamarca (Hill of Seven Colours), Humahuaca and Iruya for a multi-day itinerary

15

Visitor Reviews & Nearby Exploration

Voices from Garganta del Diablo: Real Google Maps Testimonies

CM
Carlos M.
2025-06-12
★★★★★

Impresionante cañón natural. La caminata hasta la cascada es inolvidable y el sonido del agua retumbando entre las paredes de roca te deja sin palabras. Imperdible si estás en Tilcara.

Google
LB
Laura B.
2025-05-03
★★★★★

Un lugar mágico donde la naturaleza muestra su fuerza. El Paso Estrecho es sobrecogedor y la cascada, especialmente después de las lluvias, es espectacular. La energía del lugar es única.

Google
MR
Marco R.
2025-04-18
★★★★★

Canyon naturale magnifico nel cuore della Quebrada. Il sentiero è ben segnalato, la cascata è mozzafiato e il passaggio stretto regala emozioni uniche. Consigliatissimo!

Google
张
张明
2025-03-22
★★★★★

大自然的鬼斧神工！狭缝穿行那段太震撼了，两侧岩壁几乎碰到一起。瀑布虽然不是最大的，但在峡谷中的回声特别有力量。徒步难度适中，强烈推荐！

Google
ET
Emily T.
2025-02-09
★★★★★

Absolutely breathtaking natural wonder. The slot passage is thrilling and the waterfall echoing through the gorge is mesmerizing. Wear good shoes — the terrain is rocky but worth every step.

Google
DF
Diego F.
2024-11-15
★★★★☆

Una joya natural cerca de Tilcara. El sendero es accesible, las vistas panorámicas son increíbles y la experiencia de caminar dentro del cañón es única. Llevar agua y protección solar.

Google

Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting

After exploring Garganta del Diablo, you can easily visit the following nearby destinations:

📍 Hill of Seven Colours (Cerro de los Siete Colores)

Located in Purmamarca, about 25 km from Tilcara. Famous for its layered bands of red, orange, yellow, green and purple — one of north-west Argentina's most iconic photo spots.

📍 Pucará de Tilcara (Pre-Inca Fortress)

A pre-Inca archaeological site in Tilcara at about 2,465 m altitude. This thousand-year-old stone fortress overlooks the Quebrada de Humahuaca and is a superb place to learn about Andean indigenous culture.

📍 Salinas Grandes (Great Salt Flats)

A vast salt pan on the border of Jujuy and Salta provinces, at about 3,450 m altitude. The blinding white crust against a cobalt-blue sky creates a surreal landscape — one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the Andean highlands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Garganta del Diablo

'Garganta del Diablo' is Spanish for 'Devil's Throat'. The name comes from the gorge's unique shape — a narrow, deep crevice resembling a giant throat — and from the thundering roar of floodwaters echoing through the canyon, which locals liken to a devil's roar. Local folklore also recounts a tragic cross-cultural love story that adds romantic and mysterious overtones to the name.

The gorge hike round-trip takes about 2–3 hours (including photo stops and viewpoints). If you plan to explore in depth, go birdwatching or do photography, allow 4–5 hours. Opening hours are daily 08:00–18:00; morning visits offer the best light conditions.

The gorge is at ~2,450m; take time to acclimatise. The Andean sun is extreme — use good sun protection. You will need to wade through the stream, so wear waterproof, non-slip hiking shoes. Carry at least 1 litre of water per person. Flash floods can occur during the rainy season (Dec–Mar) — always check the weather forecast. Take all rubbish with you and help protect this fragile ecosystem.

Fly from Buenos Aires to Jujuy International Airport (JUJ, ≈2 hrs), then drive or take a bus north along National Route 9 for about 113 km (1.5 hrs) to Tilcara. Garganta del Diablo is about 5 km outside Tilcara — you can take a taxi, cycle or walk. Alternatively, fly to Salta (SLA) and travel about 210 km (3.5–4 hrs).

No, they are different places. Argentina has two famous natural features named 'Garganta del Diablo': the massive waterfall at Iguazú Falls (on the border with Brazil in north-east Argentina), and this high-altitude slot canyon near Tilcara (in north-west Argentina's Jujuy Province). Both are natural wonders, but they are completely different in type — one is a low-altitude tropical waterfall and the other a high-altitude arid-region slot canyon.

Garganta del Diablo is located in Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina, at Paraje Garganta del Diablo, with Google plus code CJ4G+55 and coordinates approximately -23.5888421, -65.3863963.

No. Iguazu's Garganta del Diablo is the famous waterfall viewpoint, while Tilcara's is a high-altitude gorge hiking destination. They differ in landscape, location and visitor experience.

Yes, an entrance fee applies and the exact price is displayed on site; ticket revenue funds trail maintenance and ecological conservation. Carry cash (Argentine pesos) and confirm opening hours in advance.

The trail area requires a paid ticket, while surrounding gorge viewpoints are openly accessible. Always check on-site notices and seasonal water conditions before setting out.

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Map Location

Name
Garganta del Diablo
Address
Garganta del Diablo, Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina
Plus code
CJ4G+55 Tilcara, Jujuy
Coordinates
-23.5888421, -65.3863963

Paraje Garganta del Diablo Tilcara, Jujuy Province Argentina

View on Google Maps

For official updates and regional tourism information, visit Argentina / Jujuy Official Tourism Portal.

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Gorge Trail Map

Hover over (or tap) the markers on the map below to explore the key areas of Garganta del Diablo and its surroundings.

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01

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Suggested Itinerary

A half-day is enough for a rewarding visit. Use the timeline below as a guide, and adjust freely to your pace and the weather.

08:00

Arrive at the trailhead

Get there early for the best morning light. Apply sunscreen, hydrate, and begin your hike.

08:30

First Viewpoint

Climb to the viewpoint for a full panorama of Garganta del Diablo. The red rock walls are especially stunning in the morning light.

09:30

Waterfall Area

Descend into the gorge floor and experience the waterfall up close. Rainbows are frequently visible in the mist.

10:30

Slot Passage

Enter the narrowest section of the gorge, where the walls close in and the sky becomes a ribbon overhead.

12:00

Return to Tilcara

Head back to town and enjoy a north-western highland lunch, wrapping up your half-day nature adventure.

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Sources & Further Reading

Information on this page is compiled from regional official tourism bodies, the national tourism portal and the UNESCO World Heritage archive, for verification and further reading.

Image credit: all images displayed on this website remain the property and copyright of their original photographers.