Cultural and Scenic Adventure in Tilcara, Argentina

Reaching New Heights in Tilcara

Today in Tilcara was a beautiful blend of exploration, local flavors, and a touch of nightlife. It’s amazing how each day here brings a new perspective and deeper appreciation for this unique corner of Argentina. Olivia and I, along with the kids, embraced the day with open hearts and a sense of adventure, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Killa Resto Bar. I always find that starting the day with a good meal sets the tone for everything that follows. Killa Resto Bar was a delightful surprise. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was simple but satisfying. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning adventure. After breakfast, we decided to tackle Cerro de la Cruz.


Discover the breathtaking vistas and cultural heritage of Cerro de la Cruz in Tilcara, a must-see attraction in the stunning Jujuy Province.
The hike up Cerro de la Cruz was invigorating. The air was crisp, and the views became more breathtaking with every step. Olivia, always the photographer, was in her element, capturing the stunning panoramas of Tilcara and the surrounding Quebrada de Humahuaca. The kids, surprisingly, were troopers, their little legs pumping as they raced each other to the top. I, of course, brought up the rear, taking in the scenery and trying to keep everyone hydrated.

Reaching the summit was a triumph. The panoramic views were simply unparalleled. From up there, you could see the entire town of Tilcara laid out before you, nestled in the valley with the mountains rising majestically in the background. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the beauty and grandeur of nature. We spent a good while at the top, just soaking it all in and taking countless photos. The sense of accomplishment and the shared experience made the hike all the more worthwhile. I think this might be one of my favorite views so far on this trip.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge you physically, offering a new perspective from above.

After descending Cerro de la Cruz, we strolled through Plazoleta Antenor Sajama.


Explore Plazoleta Antenor Sajama, a tranquil park in Tilcara, Jujuy, where nature and culture converge amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
It’s a small, unassuming square, but it holds a special significance. We learned that Antenor Sajama was a local young man who lost his life during the Falklands War. The plaza is named in his honor, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. It was a humbling experience to stand there, reflecting on his story and the impact of war on a small community.

We had lunch at La Chakana Parrilla, a restaurant that promised a fusion of Argentine grill and regional flavors.


Discover authentic Argentine flavors at La Chakana Parrilla in Tilcara—where every meal is a celebration of tradition and taste.
The reviews were promising, and we were eager to try some local cuisine. La Chakana Parrilla did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the setting. Olivia and I decided to try the estofado de llama with Andean gnocchi, a dish that came highly recommended. The kids opted for simpler fare, but they were equally happy with their choices. The estofado was rich and flavorful, the llama meat tender and succulent. It was a true taste of the region, a culinary experience that we won’t soon forget.

As the afternoon waned, we took it easy, wandering through the town, soaking up the atmosphere, and doing a bit of souvenir shopping. Tilcara has a laid-back vibe that's infectious. The streets are lined with colorful buildings, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. It's a place where you can truly relax and unwind, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For dinner, we ventured to Nazareno resto bar.


Experience authentic Argentine flavors at Nazareno Resto Bar in Tilcara – where delicious food meets breathtaking mountain views.
We chose it based on a local recommendation, always the best way to find hidden gems. Nazareno resto bar was a cozy spot with a relaxed atmosphere. The menu was varied, with something for everyone. I opted for a traditional Argentine steak, while Olivia chose a vegetarian dish. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. The warm food and good company were more than enough to recharge our batteries.

But the day wasn't over yet. After putting the kids to bed, Olivia and I decided to check out Lucifer Lounge Bar.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Lucifer Lounge Bar in Tilcara, where creative cocktails and stunning views create the ultimate nightlife experience.
I was intrigued by its reputation as a lively nightlife spot. Lucifer Lounge Bar was certainly an experience. It was a bit rough around the edges, with loud music and a slightly chaotic atmosphere, but it had a certain charm. We ordered a couple of cocktails and soaked in the scene. It was a far cry from the sophisticated bars of Toronto, but it was authentic and fun. We even watched some locals try their hand at the bowling alley, which added to the quirky ambiance. It was a memorable end to a memorable day.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Caravana de Llamas and the iconic Cartel de TILCARA. I’m particularly excited about the llama caravan; it sounds like a truly unique experience. We’ll also be trying out Kactus for breakfast, EL NUEVO PROGRESO for lunch, and PARRILLADA LA TILCAREÑA for dinner. And, of course, we’ll be stopping by El Molle Alfajores for some sweet treats. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.

Tilcara continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in culture, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of Argentina with my family. It’s a journey that’s enriching our lives in ways I never imagined.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life – good food, beautiful scenery, and the company of loved ones. It’s these moments that make travel so rewarding, and it’s these memories that I’ll carry with me long after we’ve left Tilcara.