Tilcara

Tilcara is a mountain town in the Quebrada de Humahuaca located at about 2,460 meters elevation in a valley between the Andes. Houses are mostly built from adobe and scattered across the hilly terrain.

The area shows evidence of human settlement spanning at least 10,000 years, making it one of Argentina's oldest inhabited places. This long history has shaped local culture and people's relationship with the land.

The town preserves strong Andean traditions visible in daily life and the veneration of Pachamama, the earth mother. This connection to nature and the mountains shapes how people here celebrate and mark their year.

The town is accessible via National Route 9, which connects it to other locations in the region. Visitors should prepare for the altitude and bring comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain is hilly.

The Pucará de Tilcara is a pre-Incan fortress from the 12th century perched on a hill above town. The site also features a botanical garden displaying rare cactus species found in the region.

Location: Tilcara Department

Elevation above the sea: 2,461 m

Website: http://tilcara.gov.ar

GPS coordinates: -23.57681,-65.39342

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:17