Plaza Central Tilcara
Tilcara's Plaza Central is the vibrant heart of this Jujuy town, alive with artisan markets, historical charm, and lively weekend evenings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Music, dancing, and lively atmosphere
Plaza Central Tilcara
Best Time
Music, dancing, and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tilcara's Plaza Central is the vibrant heart of this Jujuy town, alive with artisan markets, historical charm, and lively weekend evenings.
"The best cake, coffee and toasts that I would proved in Argentina, more in jujuy! I love this place !!!"
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Colorful textiles and ceramics abound! Get there early for the best selection.
☕ Delicious Coffee & Cake
Don't miss the amazing cakes and coffee – a traveler favorite!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Market Stalls
Plaza Central
Discover vibrant textiles, ponchos, and ceramics. A true taste of local craftsmanship and culture.
Historical Buildings
Surrounding Plaza Central
Admire colonial architecture and immerse yourself in the town's rich history.
Museums and Cultural Centers
Near Plaza Central
Explore local history and art. Don't miss the chance to learn about the region's heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Getting Around Tilcara
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Colorful textiles and ceramics abound! Get there early for the best selection.
☕ Delicious Coffee & Cake
Don't miss the amazing cakes and coffee – a traveler favorite!
🎶 Evening Entertainment
Enjoy live music and dancing on weekend evenings.
🚶♀️ Walk to Cerro de la Cruz
A 20-min hike from the plaza offers stunning valley views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Colorful textiles and ceramics abound! Get there early for the best selection.
☕ Delicious Coffee & Cake
Don't miss the amazing cakes and coffee – a traveler favorite!
🎶 Evening Entertainment
Enjoy live music and dancing on weekend evenings.
🚶♀️ Walk to Cerro de la Cruz
A 20-min hike from the plaza offers stunning valley views.
🚗 Access to Attractions
Rent a car for easy access to Garganta del Diablo and other sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tilcara's charming Plaza Central, vibrant artisan markets, and delicious local food, particularly cakes and coffee. The town's historical ambiance and stunning mountain surroundings are also highlights. Some find the crowds on weekends and during holidays can be significant.
"Cute town square with stands with souvenirs/local clothes such as ponchos, ruanas, etc. It is surrounded by historical buildings and a museum"
Alessandro Marani
"Super fun the night before carnival in Feb 9 24"
April Lam
"Beautiful place yo visit, you'll see wonderful mountains and old structures.
Delicious food."
Ignacio Mamaní (Nacho)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the airport, take a taxi to the bus terminal and then a bus to Tilcara. The bus tickets can be booked in advance from Buenos Aires.
The Plaza Central is very walkable. For surrounding attractions like Garganta del Diablo, consider a taxi or renting a car for more flexibility.
You can drive to the access point and then follow a 2km trail, which is considered low to medium difficulty.
While the central area is walkable, local buses and taxis are available for longer distances.
Many hotels and hostels are located within a few blocks or a short 10-minute walk from the Plaza Central. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Plaza Central itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, nearby attractions like Garganta del Diablo have an entrance fee.
For some experiences, like the llama interpretation center, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.
The market stalls around Plaza Central are typically open during daylight hours, with peak activity on weekends.
Some accommodations offer discounts, such as 20% off during April. It's worth checking directly with hotels.
As of recent information, the entrance fee for Garganta del Diablo was around $3000 per person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find beautiful, colorful textiles, ponchos, ruanas, and unique ceramic crafts.
The plaza is surrounded by historical buildings, a museum, and vibrant artisan stalls selling local crafts.
Yes, on weekend evenings and holidays, there's often music and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere.
It's a 2km hike from the plaza, taking about 20 minutes, offering panoramic views of the town and valley.
The llama interpretation center offers an engaging experience for families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Restaurants near the plaza offer delicious regional cuisine. Alapayla is highly recommended for its regional dishes.
Look for regional specialties. Travelers rave about the cakes, coffee, and toasts available in town.
Yes, there are cafes offering excellent coffee, cakes, and toasts, highly praised by visitors.
You can find restaurants serving regional dishes, as well as cafes and bakeries.
The area around Plaza Central has several dining options, including restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Plaza Central itself, with its colorful market stalls and historical buildings, is a great starting point. The view from Cerro de la Cruz is also spectacular.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing the plaza and surrounding landscapes.
Yes, especially if you visit the llama interpretation center, where you can get close and capture unique shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like the plaza. Always be respectful when photographing people or private property.
Look for the vibrant colors of the artisan crafts, the unique architecture, and the stunning mountain backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Centro de Interpretación de Llamas is a particularly engaging activity for children, offering a chance to learn about and see these iconic Andean animals up close. When exploring the Plaza Central, the vibrant artisan market can be a fun place for kids to see colorful crafts, though keeping a close eye on them in crowded areas is recommended. Many accommodations in Tilcara are family-friendly, with some offering amenities like breakfast included and comfortable rooms.
Consider booking accommodations that are centrally located or a short walk from the plaza for easy access to amenities and activities.💰 Budget Travelers
While some attractions have entrance fees, like Garganta del Diablo, many of Tilcara's charms are free to enjoy, such as exploring the Plaza Central and its surrounding market.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can easily join group tours for excursions to nearby attractions like the Garganta del Diablo or explore at their own pace. The hike to Cerro de la Cruz offers a rewarding solo adventure with spectacular views.
Engaging with local culture through the artisan markets or trying regional cuisine at cafes like those praised for their coffee and cakes can also be a fulfilling solo experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Quebrada de Humahuaca
Beyond the natural beauty, the Quebrada is rich in history. The Pucará de Tilcara, a pre-Inca fortification, is a must-visit archaeological site offering insights into the region's past. The Cerro de la Cruz hike, starting near the plaza, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the Pucará, making it a rewarding experience for photographers and hikers alike.
Travelers often recommend dedicating several days to fully appreciate the Quebrada. Consider visiting towns like Purmamarca with its Hill of Seven Colors and Humahuaca with its Monument to the Heroes of Independence. The journey through the Quebrada is as much about the scenic drives as it is about the destinations themselves, with ever-changing landscapes that captivate at every turn.
The Heart of Tilcara: Plaza Central
It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture. The square is framed by historical buildings, adding a sense of timelessness to the bustling scene. You'll also find museums and cultural centers nearby, offering a deeper dive into the region's heritage. For food lovers, the area surrounding the plaza boasts excellent cafes and restaurants, with many travelers specifically praising the quality of the cakes, coffee, and toasts available.
During festive periods, like Carnival, the plaza truly comes alive with celebrations. Even outside of major events, the energy of Plaza Central makes it a captivating spot to experience the authentic spirit of Tilcara, whether you're browsing for crafts, enjoying a meal, or simply soaking in the local ambiance.
Experiencing Local Crafts and Culture
These items are not only souvenirs but also a tangible connection to the local heritage and the skilled artisans who create them. Beyond textiles, the plaza is a great place to discover unique ceramic pieces and other handcrafted items. Many of these are inspired by the natural landscapes and indigenous culture of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day or on weekdays if you prefer a less crowded shopping experience and more time to interact with the vendors.
For a deeper cultural immersion, consider visiting the Centro de Interpretación de Llamas (Llama Interpretation Center). This offers a fascinating look at the importance of llamas in Andean culture and provides opportunities for unique photos.
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