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From the center of the city of Humahuaca we will be able to perform a mini 2km hiking, along the left bank of the River Grande and get to know the archaeological site of Peñas Blancas. |
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This low difficulty ride may be done independently. We recommend that you should take water supply to hydrate yourself once you reach the first half of the excursion and perform this activity slowly, considering that you will be at 2,400 mosl.
We will leave from Plaza Central along Jujuy street for two blocks heading northwards. We will turn right into Salta street, pass by the craft fair, and cross the bridge over the river Grande.
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Continuing along that street, we will take the rubble road and start our way up. It is important to find our pace and keep it. This way, we will not get tired during the short but steep climbing. |
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During the journey we will notice the deteriorated steppe bushlike vegetation and scarce dinamism. Carob trees and chañares prevail and there is a remarkable amount of cardones.
The path will become narrower and you will start to climb along the irregular top of a hill which resembles a staircase because of the natural action of the wind.
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There you will find the altar to the Virgen de la Medalla Milagrosa. We will read the plate and we will know that the lighting of the sanctuary has been donated by the engineer Carlos Krelz, from the city of Rosario on August 24, 1975. |
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From the top of the hill, which is only 120 high, we will have a panoramic view of the entire Quebrada de Humahuaca. You will get a clear sight of the top of the clock located at the Town Hall building, the stairs of the Independence Heros monument and the low houses of the city.
A few minutes of beholding will be enough to keep that picture for ever in our minds.
We will climb some more minutes along the sides of the hill to the adjacent ravines and we will see the crop lines made by the Omaguaca culture and small underground oval silos.
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After having a short rest to recover energy, you will be able to start your return to the city, using the same path you used to get to the ravine.
Duration: 60 min.
Difficulty: Low
Recommendations: Take a hat, comfortable shoes, fluids and warm clothes.
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Marcelo Sola 
