A mini hike route that has become fashionable in recent years in the Quebrada de Humahuaca is the one that can be done in Uquía, within the so-called Quebrada de las Señoritas.
This is a hike that has two variations, a short one and a longer one, both of low difficulty and suitable for most people.
In this post I'll tell you everything you need to know about trekking: how to get there, how long it lasts, whether you need a guide, and some practical tips for the trip.
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Where is Uquía located?
Uquía is a small town located in the north of the province of Jujuy, within the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies on National Route 9, one of the main roads connecting the towns of the gorge.
It is about 5 km south of Humahuaca and approximately 115 km from San Salvador de Jujuy, making it an easy stop to add if you are touring the area by car or public transport.
How to get to Uquía
By car
From San Salvador de Jujuy, the journey takes about 2 and a half hours, following RN 9 north. The road is paved and in good condition, passing through towns such as Purmamarca, Tilcara and Humahuaca.
By public transport
Frequent buses travel through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, connecting San Salvador de Jujuy with Humahuaca. They all pass through Uquía, dropping you off on the route (see on the map), very close to the town's main square. It's an economical and convenient option if you're not traveling by car.
Things to do in San Salvador de Jujuy, a city that doesn't captivate
From Humahuaca
If you are staying in Humahuaca, Uquía is only 5 km away, so you can also get there by taxi, private car service or shared taxi.
Where does the trek to the Quebrada de las Señoritas begin?
The trek through the Quebrada de las Señoritas begins approximately 1 km from the Uquía town square, where there is a parking lot and a post with the guides (see on the map). Access is via a dirt road for vehicles, in the opposite direction from National Route 9; it's easy to find.
If you are traveling by car, you can go directly to the parking located at the start of the trail. The hike itself begins from there.
However, if you are staying in Uquía or arrived by public transport, the stretch to the start of the trail can be done on foot. It's a short walk, a prelude to the actual trek, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the landscape and the surroundings of the ravine before starting the official route.
Details of the trek through the Quebrada de las Señoritas
The trek through the Quebrada de las Señoritas has two options: a short one and a longer one. Both are low difficulty walks, suitable for most people, young and old, with one main difference being the time and length of the route.
The short version usually lasts around 1.5 hours, while the long version can take between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the pace of the group you are walking with.
It is important to clarify that the long route includes the short one, so you don't miss any section of the trail if you choose the longer walk.
To participate in the trek, a $1,000 fee is required, payable at the entrance. In that same place you will find the local guides, whose hiring is mandatory. This isn't so much due to the difficulty of the hike, but rather to prevent visitors from straying from the trail and, at the same time, to generate income for the local guides.
The cost of the guide service is $6,000 for the short hike and $12,000 for the long hike. These are the prices I paid at the beginning of 2026, so they may vary over time.
What is the trekking like?
Since it's a group hike, the pace is usually adjusted to suit all participants. The guide waits for the group to move together, so the hike can be a little faster or slower depending on who's hiking that day.
During the journey, the guide usually provides general information about the place as we venture deeper into the ravine.
The landscape is arid, with a constant presence of cactus, some of them large, and hills formed mainly by reddish-toned sandstones. It is a typical environment of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, dry and open, which becomes increasingly enclosed as you move further along.
If you choose the short version, the path enters a narrow passage, with high rock walls on both sides. It's a narrow but very photogenic section, which became popular on social media, and it opens into a wider area, although completely surrounded by rock walls.
On the other hand, if you choose the long version, from that point you continue further into the ravine. The landscape begins to change, and other rock formations of different colors appear.
There is a viewpoint from where you can see much of the route taken and a wide view of the ravine, one of the most beautiful points of the trek.
Further along, the trail passes through a sort of cave, then through another narrow section between rocks. From there, the return journey begins.
What to do in Uquía besides trekking
Beyond the trek through the Quebrada de las Señoritas, the other highlight in Uquía is the Church of San Francisco de Paula (see on the map). It is a simple construction, typical of the towns in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, but with significant historical and cultural value.
Inside are preserved the famous paintings of the Arcabuceros Angels, a series of works of colonial origin that represent angels armed with arquebuses, dressed in military attire of the time.
These paintings are part of the so-called Cuzco School and are one of the main artistic attractions of the region, since it is not common to find this type of representation outside the Andean region.
Taking photographs of the paintings inside is not allowed.
Final thoughts: Is the trek through the Quebrada de las Señoritas worth it?
While the views of the Quebrada de las Señoritas are beautiful and the natural surroundings are worthwhile, I personally felt that the price of the trek is somewhat high, especially in the case of the long version.
It is a hike that, due to its difficulty and signage, could easily be done on your own, but since hiring a guide is mandatory, the cost ends up being more expensive than necessary.
The trail offers good opportunities for taking photos and enjoying the scenery, but compared to other hikes in the area, it wasn't the one that impressed me the most. Personally, I prefer the hike to the Huichaira Castles, which is free and I found much more spectacular than this one.
But if you're exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca and have some extra time, or want to take a short and easy walk to get a glimpse of the region's beautiful landscapes, it could be an interesting stop.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Quebrada de las Señoritas
Is it possible to do the trek without a guide?
No. Currently, the hike is only done with a guide, and hiring one is mandatory. This is not due to the difficulty of the route, but to prevent visitors from straying from the trail and to generate work for local guides.
How long does the trek last?
There are two options: the short version, which lasts approximately 1 and a half hours, and the long version, which can take between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the pace of the group.
What is the difference between short and long trekking?
The long route includes the short section, so you don't miss any scenery if you choose the longer version. The difference lies in the distance, the time, and some additional points of interest such as the viewpoint and the cave.
What is the cost of the trek?
In addition to the $1,000 bonus, the guide fee is $6,000 for the short trek and $12,000 for the long trek.
Is it a difficult hike?
No. It's an easy trek, suitable for most people. It doesn't require prior experience or great physical fitness.
Can it be done with boys?
Yes, especially the short version, as long as the kids are used to walking and the group's pace is respected.
What is the best time to do it?
Ideally, it should be done in the morning, when temperatures are more pleasant and the light is better for photos.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, a hat, sunscreen, and a light snack are recommended. Restrooms are available, and vendors sell tortillas and drinks in the parking area before the trek begins.
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