Jujuy: Purmamarca, Salinas, and Handicrafts to Buy

Located in the northwest of Argentina, Jujuy is a destination that dazzles with its scenic and cultural diversity. With its stunning mountains, valleys, and salt flats, the province offers endless opportunities for nature and adventure lovers. The climate in Jujuy varies depending on the altitude, allowing for different activities year-round. For international tourists, reaching Jujuy is simple, with direct flights from cities such as Buenos Aires and Asunción. Throughout this guide, we’ll explore the main attractions of Jujuy, including Purmamarca, Salinas Grandes, and the Quebrada de Humahuaca, as well as a recommended itinerary to make the most of your visit.

Must-Visit Tourist Destinations: What to Do in Jujuy?

Purmamarca

Purmamarca is just 66 km from San Salvador de Jujuy, about an hour’s drive. This charming town is famous for the Hill of Seven Colors, which displays a spectacular palette of terracotta, red, yellow, and green tones. At the local artisan market, you’ll find a variety of local products such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

Quebrada de Humahuaca

The Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretches 155 km from Humahuaca to Purmamarca. This stunning valley is known for its multicolored mountains, such as the Hill of Seven Colors and the Hill of the Three Marías. Along the way, you’ll find a series of traditional villages, each with its own history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic town of Humahuaca, where you can see the Monument to the Heroes of Independence and enjoy live folk music in the town squares. Additionally, you can explore ancient archaeological sites in the Quebrada, such as the remains of pre-Columbian cultures that once inhabited the region.

Read more: Solar Train of the Quebrada: Discover the Enchanting Villages of Jujuy

Salinas Grandes, the Salt Flat of Jujuy

The Salinas Grandes are a vast salt desert located about 120 km from San Salvador de Jujuy. This surreal landscape stretches along Route 52 and is famous for its unique beauty and vast white horizon. In addition to enjoying the breathtaking views, you can learn about the salt extraction process and its economic importance to the region.

The Yungas

The Yungas are a subtropical ecosystem found on the slopes of Jujuy’s mountains. This area is rich in biodiversity and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. You can visit the Calilegua National Park, where you’ll find trails that lead you through jungle landscapes, rivers, and waterfalls.

Climate in Jujuy, Argentina

Jujuy’s climate is diverse and varies by region. In the capital and surrounding areas, summers (December to March) are warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C, while winters (June to August) are cool, with lows of 5°C. In the Quebrada de Humahuaca, the climate is drier, and nights can be cold year-round, with temperatures dropping to near 0°C in winter. It’s recommended to dress in layers, as temperatures vary significantly between day and night, especially in higher-altitude areas.

Flights to Jujuy

Paranair has announced a new flight starting on November 3, 2024, from Asunción (Paraguay) to San Salvador de Jujuy.

The Gobernador Horacio Guzmán International Airport is located about 33 km from San Salvador de Jujuy. It offers domestic flights from Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and other Argentine cities.

Handicrafts in Jujuy

When in Jujuy, don’t forget to take home some typical handicrafts as souvenirs. The most popular include:

• Textiles: Handwoven on looms, including ponchos, shawls, and rugs with Andean designs.

• Ceramics: Made by local artisans, you can find plates, cups, and decorative figures.

• Jewelry: Crafted from silver and semi-precious stones, these pieces reflect the region’s culture and art.

• Carnival Masks: Hand-painted and used during local festivals.

Typical Food of Jujuy

Jujeño cuisine reflects its Andean heritage, with native ingredients and ancestral techniques. Some dishes you shouldn’t miss include:



• Jujeña Empanadas: Similar to Salta-style empanadas but with a unique blend of local spices.

• Tamales: Made with corn and stuffed with meat, this dish is typical at local festivals.

• Llama Stew: A hearty dish made with tender, low-fat llama meat.

• Humita: A mixture of corn, cheese, and spices, cooked in corn husks.

• Corn Chicha: A traditional fermented corn drink.

Three-Day Itinerary for the Province of Jujuy

Day 1: Discover San Salvador de Jujuy and its Surroundings

Morning: Start your tour in San Salvador de Jujuy, the capital of the province. Explore its historic center with a visit to Plaza Belgrano, where the Government House and the Basilica Cathedral are located, both of great architectural importance. Don’t miss the Provincial Historical Museum to learn about Jujuy’s role in Argentina’s independence.

Lunch: Enjoy delicious local food at one of the city’s traditional folk venues. Jujeña empanadas, tamales, and locro are highly recommended.

Afternoon: After lunch, venture to Termas de Reyes, located just 19 km from the city. This spot is famous for its hot springs with healing properties, perfect for an afternoon of relaxation amidst the mountains.

Dinner: Return to the city for a dinner with a view of the hills. In the downtown area, you’ll find restaurants offering regional cuisine with a gourmet touch.

Day 2: Explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca and Purmamarca

Morning: Begin your second day with a trip to the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Head straight to Humahuaca, then take the road up the Cuesta del Aparzo to reach the Hornocal, also known as the Hill of Fourteen Colors.

Your first stop is Purmamarca, a picturesque town at the foot of the Hill of Seven Colors. Stroll through the artisan market and visit the local church, dating back to the 17th century.

Lunch: Return to Humahuaca and savor a traditional humita or tamal, paired with a fine high-altitude wine.

Afternoon: Continue your journey south, stopping in Huacalera and Tilcara. In Tilcara, explore the town and visit the Pucará, an ancient pre-Hispanic fortress, and the Archaeological Museum. Nature lovers can also hike to the Devil’s Throat, an impressive canyon near the town.

Evening: Spend the night in Tilcara, where you’ll find various boutique and rustic accommodations, ideal for enjoying the tranquility and magic of the Quebrada.

Day 3: Adventure at Salinas Grandes and Return to San Salvador

Morning: On your last day, visit one of Jujuy’s most stunning natural wonders: the Salinas Grandes. This vast white desert stretches along Route 52 and is perfect for photography and learning about salt harvesting. The road to the salt flats offers breathtaking mountainous landscapes at altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters.

Lunch: On the way back, stop for lunch in the charming town of Purmamarca, in front of the Hill of Seven Colors. Try a llama stew or empanadas accompanied by a local wine.

Afternoon: Return to San Salvador de Jujuy, once again passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Quebrada. If you still have time and energy, visit a museum or take a final stroll around the city before departing.

Dinner: End your day with a traditional dinner at one of the Jujeña folk venues, enjoying live folk music.