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Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAAM)

Discover the mysteries of Inca culture at the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology in Salta, home to the famed Children of Llullaillaco mummies.

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The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology in Salta, Argentina, safeguards and exhibits artifacts related to Inca Capacocha child sacrifice ceremonies in the Andes, most notably the well-preserved Children of Llullaillaco mummies. The museum offers a glimpse into Inca culture and practices, set within a historic 19th-century building.

A brief summary to Museum of High Altitude Archaeology

Local tips

  • Consider buying tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Bring a light jacket, as the museum maintains a cool temperature to preserve the mummies.
  • Take advantage of the English translations available to gain a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology is located in the heart of Salta, on Bartolomé Mitre 77, very close to the central Plaza 9 de Julio. From the Plaza, walk one block east on Mitre street. The museum will be on your right. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Salta has an extensive bus network. Many bus lines stop near Plaza 9 de Julio, a short walk from the museum. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option. To use public transport you need to buy a Tarjeta SAETA. A single journey costs ARS 61.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Salta. A short taxi ride from the Salta bus terminal (approx. 10 blocks) to the museum will cost between US$ 2 and 2.50. A 5km ride in Salta costs about 3.5 USD. Be sure to agree on the fare or check that the meter is running.

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Discover more about Museum of High Altitude Archaeology

Nestled in the heart of Salta, Argentina, the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAAM) offers a captivating journey into the world of the Inca civilization. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts discovered in the high peaks of the Andes, particularly those related to the Capacocha child sacrifice ceremonies. The museum's centerpiece is the remarkably preserved mummies of the Children of Llullaillaco, discovered in 1999 on the Llullaillaco volcano. These mummies, dating back over 500 years, provide invaluable insights into Inca rituals and beliefs. The museum ensures their delicate preservation through advanced cryopreservation technology. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century neo-Gothic building, the museum provides a sophisticated backdrop for its exhibits. Inside, visitors can explore a range of artifacts, textiles, and ceremonial items that shed light on the lives and practices of the Inca people. Interactive displays and videos with English subtitles enhance the visitor experience. Beyond the mummies, the museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of Inca culture and high-altitude archaeology. The museum also houses research laboratories dedicated to the scientific study of the artifacts and mummies. Visitors can also enjoy a café offering a menu inspired by traditional Inca ingredients and a museum shop with unique souvenirs. Since its inauguration in 2004, the MAAM has become a significant cultural and tourist attraction in Salta. It has received accolades, including being the highest-rated museum in Argentina on TripAdvisor.

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