Quebrada de Humahuaca

Understand

The region has always been a crossroads for economic, social and cultural communication. It has been populated for 10,000 years, since the settlement of the first hunter-gatherers, which is evidenced by substantial prehistoric remains. It was a caravan road for the Inca Empire in the 15th century, then an important link between the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata and the Viceroyalty of Peru, as well as a stage for many battles of the Argentine War of Independence.

Getting there

Buses run from Salta to most destinations in the province. From Salta to San Salvador de Jujuy is only a two-hour bus journey. From Bolivia, the main border crossing is at Villazón (Bolivia) and La Quiaca (Argentina). You can get to the border by bus or train from elsewhere in Bolivia, and then catch a bus from the La Quiaca bus terminal to other parts of Jujuy.

Getting around

The towns in the province are well connected by buses. To see some of the more remote natural attractions, though, you'll need to drive or pay for a private car or tour.

See

This province has stunning nature – staggering mountains and desert, sprinkled with cacti. A drive or bus ride through the region's highways will bring you past beautiful mountain views, and a couple of towns in the region (Humahuaca and Purmamarca) are known for their distinctive colorful mountains.

Do

1 Santa Ana to San Francisco. Take a truffi from Humahuaca to Santa Ana, a traditional empty town of adobe buildings enclosed by breathtaking mountains standing at 5,000 m.From there, you can trek the 5 hours through spectacular surroundings to arrive in Valle/Paseo Colorado, a beautiful tiny town, and another 10 hours trek through Valle Grande to San Francisco where you'll find natural thermal baths and los yungas. It is only a two- or three-hour trek away, but beware of the elevation on your return. This two-hour trek could take up to five hours on return.Check out the trail on OpenStreetMap (used by mobile apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz). (updated Jun 2018) 2 Termas de Reyes. Soak into warm thermal water and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. (updated Jun 2018) Hike the Termas de Reyes region. There are many hiking trails west of the thermal baths. Check them out on OpenStreetMap (used by mobile apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz). (updated Jun 2018)

Eat

There are so many different price ranges to choose from and one of the most upscale is Miralejos facing the Plaza Belgrano. Not only is the food the best in Argentina, so is the wine and the conversation. If you want to try some of the sweetest desserts go to Casa Bindo. You might never finish your dessert but it's worth it for the sugar high at least.

Sleep

There are quite a few hostels in Jujuy.

Aldea Luna (1 hour (20km) from San Salvador de Jujuy), ☏ +54 93885094602, [email protected]. Just 20km outside Jujuy is an incredible nature Reserva tucked away in the mountains, and wonderful place to learn about organic farming and to explore the natural surroundings. Enjoy peace and tranquility with the best vegetarian food in the area. Aldea Luna is located in the NW corner of Argentina. Remember to reserve.

Go next

Bolivia – the main crossing is at La Quiaca Salta Province to the south and east