Adventurous Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca with Friends

A Journey Through Time in Tilcara

Today, I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping back in time, exploring the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Tilcara. The day was filled with ancient ruins, stunning views, and the vibrant culture of this Argentinian gem. I couldn't wait to share my experiences with you all, as it was a day filled with wonder and discovery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pacha Manca. The traditional flavors were the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for the *empanadas salteñas*, savory pastries filled with spiced meat, potatoes, and onions, a regional specialty that never disappoints. It was a delightful start, and I was eager to see what Tilcara had in store for us. I made sure to grab an extra *alfajore* for later, a sweet treat that’s quickly become a favorite of mine here in Argentina.


Experience authentic Argentine cuisine at Pacha Manca in Humahuaca—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

With our stomachs full, we headed to our first destination: the Pucarita de Tilcara. This pre-Inca fortress, perched high on a hill, offered a glimpse into the lives of the ancient people who once inhabited this region. As a software developer, I'm usually immersed in lines of code, but there's something incredibly grounding about walking through ruins that have stood for centuries. It makes you appreciate the enduring nature of history against the fleeting nature of technology. The views from the Pucarita were simply stunning. The panoramic vista of the surrounding valleys and colorful mountains was worth the climb alone. I spent a good couple of hours wandering through the ruins, imagining what life must have been like for the people who lived here so long ago. The site is generally open during daylight hours, but it’s crucial to note the last entry time, which is often around 5:30 PM. The town's accessibility by bus makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Northwest of Argentina, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.


Explore the historic Pucarás de Tilcara in Jujuy, Argentina—an ancient fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Andean heritage.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After soaking in the history at Pucarita de Tilcara, we made our way to the Torre de Santa Bárbara, a historic bell tower that stands as a testament to the region's colonial past. The tower, the sole surviving bell tower of a 17th-century church, offers breathtaking views of Humahuaca and the Quebrada. As we approached the tower, its weathered stones seemed to whisper stories of centuries gone by. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with an even more spectacular view of Tilcara and the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, the town looked like a patchwork quilt of adobe houses and cobblestone streets, nestled amidst the towering mountains. The Torre de Santa Bárbara is the campanario of an ancient Iglesia dedicated to Santa Bárbara built in the year 1695. Its original location was the hill.


Explore the iconic Torre de Santa Bárbara in Humahuaca, a monument steeped in history, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Argentine culture.

The afternoon was reserved for exploring the local culture and indulging in some retail therapy. We strolled through the artisan market, where local vendors displayed their colorful textiles, pottery, and jewelry. I picked up a beautiful handwoven scarf for my mom, a perfect souvenir to remind her of my adventures in Argentina. I also made a stop at Sirana Boutique, a charming shop known for its unique selection of clothing and accessories. It was a great place to find something special and support local artisans.


Discover unique women's fashion inspired by local culture at Sirana Boutique in Humahuaca, Jujuy Province.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Restaurante Humahuaca for a late lunch. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food were just what we needed after a day of exploring. I ordered the *locro*, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat, another regional specialty that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The flavors were rich and comforting, and it was the perfect way to warm up after a day in the Andean air. We shared stories and laughed about our adventures, savoring the last moments of our day in Tilcara. The restaurant is known for its authentic regional cuisine and warm hospitality. Other restaurants in Humahuaca include La Terminal, Tejerina, and El Fortín.


Experience authentic Indian flavors at Restaurante Humahuaca amidst the stunning landscapes of Jujuy Province.

For dinner, we decided to try La Puerta Verde Hostel & Bar, a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. The hostel has a comfortable living room where you can enjoy music, TV and use a computer if you need it. Free WiFi service. Interior patio with seats, counter, a bar and restaurant to eat and drink. The place was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the vibrant energy of the evening. I opted for a *parrillada*, a mixed grill of various meats, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. It was a fantastic way to end our day in Tilcara, surrounded by good food, good company, and the sounds of laughter and music.


Discover La Puerta Verde Hostel & Bar: A vibrant fusion of local culture, delicious food, and cozy accommodations in Humahuaca.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a leisurely stroll through the town square, soaking in the atmosphere of Tilcara at night. The stars were out in full force, and the crisp mountain air was refreshing. It was the perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty of this special place.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, including the Mirador de Lipan and the Monumento a la Dignidad Humahuaqueña. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this incredible region. I’m particularly looking forward to capturing the panoramic views from Mirador de Lipan, which I’ve heard are absolutely breathtaking.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had today. Tilcara is a place that truly captures the heart and soul of Argentina, and I'm so glad I had the opportunity to explore its ancient wonders and vibrant culture with my friends. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and share my stories with you all. And who knows, maybe one of you will be inspired to visit this magical place someday.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring and keep dreaming!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I ran into a fellow traveler who recognized me from my blog! It's always surreal to meet readers in real life, and it makes this whole blogging adventure even more rewarding. Thanks for following along, and don't be a stranger if you see me out and about!

It's been an incredible day, and I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Tilcara!