Cultural and Scenic Adventure in Tilcara, Argentina

A Day of Tilcara's Treasures

Today was all about soaking in the essence of Tilcara, a town that has quickly captured my heart. From the lively Plaza Cnel. Manuel Álvarez Prado to the awe-inspiring views at Camino a la Garganta del Diablo, every moment felt like a deeper immersion into the Argentine culture and landscape. Olivia and I, along with the kids, were ready to embrace whatever adventures the day held, and Tilcara certainly delivered.


Experience the vibrant heart of Tilcara at Plaza Cnel. Manuel Álvarez Prado, a hub of culture, crafts, and community in the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Peña La Juana Tilcara. The aroma of traditional Argentine pastries and freshly brewed coffee filled the air, instantly awakening my senses. The cozy atmosphere and the sound of folk music in the background set the perfect tone for the day. It was a delightful way to start, fueling us for the adventures that awaited.


Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Peña La Juana in Tilcara, where traditional flavors meet vibrant local culture.

Sometimes, the best travel days are the ones where you simply wander, letting the place reveal its secrets to you.

After breakfast, we strolled towards the heart of Tilcara: Plaza Cnel. Manuel Álvarez Prado. The plaza was buzzing with activity, a true reflection of the town's spirit. The kids were immediately drawn to the artisan market, their eyes wide with wonder at the colorful array of handcrafted souvenirs. Olivia, with her artistic eye, appreciated the intricate details of the local crafts, while I enjoyed watching the artisans at work, their hands skillfully shaping raw materials into beautiful creations.

The plaza itself is more than just a square; it's a meeting point, a place where locals and tourists alike come together to share moments and experiences. I learned that it was named after Colonel Manuel Álvarez Prado, a local hero from the Argentine War of Independence. The history of the place added another layer of appreciation to our visit. We spent a good hour or so wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere, and picking up a few keepsakes to remind us of our time in Tilcara.

Lunchtime found us at La Picanteria, a restaurant recommended by a local we met at the plaza. It turned out to be a hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet corner. The restaurant exuded a relaxed vibe, and the menu was filled with traditional Argentine dishes. I opted for a hearty steak, while Olivia chose one of their famous soups. The food was simply divine, a true taste of home-cooked Argentine cuisine. The kids enjoyed their meals as well, and we all left with satisfied bellies and smiles on our faces.


Experience authentic Argentine cuisine at La Picanteria in Tilcara - where tradition meets flavor amidst breathtaking landscapes.

With our appetites sated, we decided to embark on the afternoon's main adventure: a visit to the Garganta del Diablo. The road to the trailhead was an adventure in itself. We chose to drive closer to the entrance, and I quickly understood why some people recommend taking a taxi. The unpaved road was rough, and I had to navigate carefully to avoid any mishaps. But the stunning canyon views along the way made it all worthwhile.


Discover the stunning beauty of Camino a la Garganta del Diablo in Tilcara, Jujuy, where nature's wonders await every traveler.

The hike to the Garganta del Diablo was described as moderately challenging, and I would agree with that assessment. The trail involved an uphill climb, and some sections were rocky and steep. The altitude also added to the challenge, reminding us to take it slow and steady. Fortunately, we had packed our comfortable hiking shoes, which proved to be essential. I was kicking myself for forgetting the sunglasses back at our accommodation, as the sun was beating down relentlessly.

As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of rugged mountains and vibrant rock formations. The views were simply stunning, and I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery with my camera. Olivia and I shared knowing glances, both of us in awe of the natural beauty that surrounded us. The kids, despite their initial complaints about the hike, were equally captivated by the views.

After about an hour of hiking, we finally reached the Garganta del Diablo, and it was even more impressive than I had imagined. The waterfall cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of water and sound. The sheer walls of the gorge added to the drama, making us feel like we were standing in the heart of the earth. We spent a long time there, simply marveling at the power and beauty of nature. The kids enjoyed splashing in the cool water, their laughter echoing through the canyon. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory that I knew we would cherish for years to come.

The hike back down was much easier, and we made good time, arriving back in Tilcara just as the sun began to set. The golden light bathed the town in a warm glow, creating a magical atmosphere. We decided to take advantage of the evening light and do some shopping at Arte Nativo. The shop was filled with unique, handcrafted items, and we found some beautiful souvenirs to take back home. I picked up a traditional poncho, while Olivia chose a piece of pottery. The kids were happy with their small trinkets, and we left the shop with our hearts full of joy.


Discover authentic handicrafts and unique jewelry at Arte Nativo, the heart of Tilcara's artisan scene.

For our final meal of the day, we headed to La Damajuana Restobar. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, and the menu featured a variety of local and international dishes. I opted for a traditional Argentine stew, while Olivia chose a pasta dish. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. As we savored our meal, we reflected on all the incredible experiences we had shared throughout the day. From the vibrant plaza to the breathtaking canyon views, Tilcara had truly captured our hearts.


Experience the rich culinary traditions at La Damajuana Restobar in Tilcara – where local flavors meet modern gastronomy in a vibrant setting.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this amazing place with my family. Tilcara had exceeded all my expectations, and I knew that we would be leaving with memories that would last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Museo Irureta and the Castillos de Huichaira. I'm also hoping to check out YOLO Tilcara for a nightcap. Until then, I'm going to rest up and dream of the adventures that await us in this magical corner of Argentina.

Today, Tilcara offered us a glimpse into its soul, a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is both captivating and inspiring. As we prepare for our sixth day here, I'm already anticipating more discoveries and unforgettable moments. It's experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share my adventures with all of you.

I am looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore the Museo Irureta and the Castillos de Huichaira. I am also hoping to check out YOLO Tilcara for a nightcap. It is safe to say that Olivia, the kids, and I are sleeping well tonight.

It is also worth noting that a moderate magnitude 3.6 earthquake hit 217 km away from San Salvador de Jujuy. Luckily, we did not feel it here in Tilcara.

Tilcara is truly a gem, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!