Adventurous Journey through Quebrada de Humahuaca with Friends

Echoes of the Past in Iruya

Today was a day of stepping back in time, a journey into the heart of Argentina's Quebrada de Humahuaca that felt both surreal and deeply grounding. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of modern life, I found myself wandering through ancient pathways and immersing myself in the rich tapestry of history and culture woven into this landscape. It's moments like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a backpack and a thirst for the unknown.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at A La Payla Restaurant in Iruya. The aroma of traditional Andean spices filled the air, a comforting start before our exploration of this remote village. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to fuel up before embarking on their own adventures. I opted for a local specialty, a savory pastry filled with llama meat and vegetables, paired with a strong cup of coffee. It was the perfect way to kickstart a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Discover authentic Argentine cuisine at A La Payla Restaurant in Tilcara – a must-visit destination for food lovers.

With breakfast settled, it was time to properly explore Iruya. The village itself is a sight to behold, clinging to the steep mountainside as if it were an extension of the rock itself. The narrow, winding streets are a maze of adobe houses with tin roofs, each one seemingly stacked on top of the other. As I wandered through the village, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the ingenuity and resilience of the people who call this place home. The views from every corner were simply breathtaking, with the surrounding mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the village's rustic charm.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that transport us not just to a new place, but to a different time.

After wandering through the village, it was time to tackle the Qhapaq Ñan - Las Escaleras de Quebrada Grande. This ancient Inca trail is a testament to the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization, a network of roads that once connected the vast empire. The Las Escaleras section, with its steep stone steps, offered a challenging but rewarding hike through the rugged terrain. As I climbed higher and higher, I couldn't help but imagine the countless travelers who had walked this path before me, carrying goods, messages, and the weight of an empire on their shoulders.


Hike ancient Inca trails at Qhapaq Ñan - Las Escaleras de Quebrada Grande in Jujuy, Argentina, and discover breathtaking Andean landscapes and rich history.

The views from the trail were simply spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of my own footsteps and the occasional cry of a bird overhead. It was a truly immersive experience, a chance to connect with history and nature in a way that few other places can offer.

Back in Iruya, lunch at La Zurda Magica was a welcome respite after our hike. This cozy restaurant offered a menu of traditional Argentine dishes with a modern twist. I opted for the llama stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that was the perfect way to refuel after our exertions. The restaurant's atmosphere was warm and inviting, with colorful artwork adorning the walls and friendly staff eager to share their local knowledge.


Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at La Zurda Magica, a charming bar in Tilcara, Jujuy, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

As the afternoon wore on, we took some time to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Iruya. I found a quiet spot overlooking the valley and simply sat there, watching the clouds drift by and listening to the sounds of the village. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to disconnect from the stresses of modern life and simply be present in the moment. These are the moments I truly cherish on these trips. It's not always about seeing the sights, but about feeling the place.

In the evening, we gathered at CASA MOCHA for dinner. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional Argentine cuisine and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The owner, Luciano, greeted us with a smile and led us to a table in the cozy dining room. The menu was filled with tempting options, but I eventually settled on the empanadas, savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. They were absolutely delicious, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic flavors at Casa Mocha: your gateway to Jujuy's finest cheeses and wines amidst breathtaking landscapes.

After dinner, we ventured out to INSOMNIO Bar for a nightcap. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists, all eager to unwind and share stories of their day's adventures. I ordered a glass of local wine and struck up a conversation with a group of Argentinians who were traveling through the region. We talked about everything from politics to football, and I learned a great deal about Argentine culture and history. It was a reminder of the power of travel to connect people from different backgrounds and cultures.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at INSOMNIO Bar in Humahuaca, Jujuy - a must-visit for great drinks and lively atmosphere.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I had had. From exploring the ancient Inca trail to savoring the flavors of Argentine cuisine, today had been a feast for the senses. But more than that, it had been a journey into the heart of Argentine culture and history, a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the present.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Pucarita de Tilcara and the Torre de Santa Bárbara. More history awaits, and I'm eager to explore it. But for now, I'm content to simply soak in the atmosphere of Iruya and reflect on the day's adventures. I'm also slightly regretting not having packed my sunglasses. The glare of the sun at this altitude is intense! It's a small thing, but it would have made the hiking experience much more comfortable. I really need to make a better checklist before these trips.

As I sit here now, writing this from my guesthouse, I'm reminded of why I started this journey in the first place. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, meeting new people, and challenging myself in ways I never thought possible. And as I look ahead to the rest of my time in Argentina, I can't wait to see what other adventures await. This trip with my friends has been nothing short of amazing so far. It really makes a difference to share these experiences. Good night from Iruya!