Pucará de Tilcara, Andean Northwest Travel Guide

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Explore the ancient ruins of Pucará de Tilcara, a pre-Inca fortress offering panoramic views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca.

Pucará de Tilcara is a pre-Inca fortress (pucará) located near the town of Tilcara in Argentina's Jujuy Province. Built by the Omaguaca tribe in the 12th century, this strategically positioned settlement offers stunning views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca and provides a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Pucará de Tilcara

Tilcara, Jujuy Province, AR
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Tuesday 9 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm
Friday 9 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-6:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pucará de Tilcara.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the high-altitude sun can be intense.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.

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Explore Pucará de Tilcara on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

Pucará de Tilcara is located approximately 1 km south of Tilcara's town center. From the main plaza, head south along the main road, RN9. After a short walk of about 15-20 minutes, you'll see the clearly marked entrance to the site on your left. The walk is uphill, so be prepared for a slight incline.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tilcara. A short taxi ride from the town center to the entrance of Pucará de Tilcara will take only about 3 minutes and typically costs between AR$90-110. Taxi Ya Tilcara Jujuy is one of the taxi services available.

Discover more about Pucará de Tilcara

Pucará de Tilcara, perched on a hill overlooking the town of Tilcara, is a fascinating archaeological site that offers a window into the pre-Inca past of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Originally constructed in the 12th century by the Omaguaca people, the pucará served as a vital administrative and military center.The Omaguacas were skilled in agriculture, weaving, and pottery, and were also known for their warrior prowess. The pucará's strategic location, with steep sides and commanding views, made it an ideal defensive position. At its peak, it housed over 2,000 inhabitants within its stone buildings, animal corrals, ceremonial sites, and burial grounds.In the late 15th century, the Inca Empire expanded into the region, and the pucará became an Incan military outpost. The Spanish arrived in 1536, marking the end of Incan domination and the founding of the modern town of Tilcara in 1586.Rediscovered in 1908, the Pucará de Tilcara has been partially reconstructed, allowing visitors to explore its ancient structures and gain insight into the lives of its early inhabitants. The site is part of the Quebrada de Humahuaca World Heritage Site and welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually.