San Salvador de Jujuy Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina.


San Salvador de Jujuy is a charming city located in the heart of the Andean Northwest of Argentina. This vibrant destination boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene that draws travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, San Salvador de Jujuy has something for everyone.

Introduction to San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is the capital city of the Jujuy province in Argentina. Located at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the city is home to a population of approximately 250,000 people. San Salvador de Jujuy is known for its colonial architecture, impressive museums, and rich cultural heritage. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, excellent shopping options, and some of the best food in the region.

List of Places to Visit in San Salvador de Jujuy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

San Salvador de Jujuy is packed with museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Some of the top cultural attractions in the city include:

  • Cathedral of San Salvador de Jujuy: This stunning cathedral, located in the heart of the city, boasts impressive colonial architecture and houses a collection of beautiful religious artwork.

  • Museum of Fine Arts: This museum features a collection of fine art from Argentina and the surrounding region, including works by renowned Argentine artists like Benito Quinquela Martín.

  • Museum of Archaeology of High Altitude: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Inca and pre-Inca civilizations that settled in the region.

Natural Attractions of San Salvador de Jujuy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

San Salvador de Jujuy is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty that is just waiting to be explored. Some of the top outdoor attractions in the area include:

  • Cerro de la Cruz: This viewpoint offers stunning views over the city and surrounding countryside.

  • Laguna de los Pozuelos: This beautiful lagoon located just outside the city is a haven for bird-watching enthusiasts.

  • Quebrada de Humahuaca: This stunning canyon boasts a unique landscape featuring colorful rock formations and stunning vistas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is surrounded by some of the best hiking and biking routes in Argentina. From challenging mountain trails to gentle countryside paths, there is something for every level of adventurer. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • Ruta de los Diques: This scenic route takes you past several man-made lakes and reservoirs in the area, offering stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.

  • Sendero de la Virgen de la Peña: This hiking trail takes you up to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the city and surrounding countryside.

  • Quebrada de Humahuaca: This stunning canyon is home to a number of hiking trails that take you through the heart of the landscape.

Best Things to Do in San Salvador de Jujuy: Activities and Tours

San Salvador de Jujuy offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top things to do in the city include:

  • City Tour: Take a guided tour of the city to see some of its top attractions, including the Cathedral of San Salvador de Jujuy and the Museum of Fine Arts.

  • Cultural Tour: Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage with a tour of its top museums and historical sites.

  • Adventure Activities: From whitewater rafting to rock climbing, there are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Salvador de Jujuy

Day 1-2: Explore the city’s top cultural attractions, including the Cathedral of San Salvador de Jujuy and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Day 3-4: Take a tour of the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca and its surrounding villages.

Day 5-6: Enjoy some outdoor adventure with a hike or bike ride through the countryside.

Day 7: Indulge in local cuisine at one of the city’s top restaurants before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of San Salvador de Jujuy

Must-Try Dishes

San Salvador de Jujuy is known for its delicious traditional dishes, many of which are made with local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in the city include:

  • Locro: A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and maize.

  • Humita: A savory corn cake often filled with cheese or meat.

  • Empanadas: Delicious turnovers filled with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

San Salvador de Jujuy is also famous for its local beverages, which include:

  • Mate: A traditional Argentine tea that is typically served in a gourd with a straw.

  • Fernet: A bitter herbal liqueur that is often mixed with soda.

  • Andean Wine: The area around San Salvador de Jujuy is known for its high-altitude vineyards and excellent wines.

Where to Stay in San Salvador de Jujuy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Salvador de Jujuy has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the top places to stay in the city include:

  • Xibi Xibi Hotel: This stylish hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers excellent amenities, including a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.

  • Hostel Casa de Barro: This charming hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of the city.

  • Posada del Sol: This guesthouse is located just outside the city and offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the bustle of the city.

What to Buy in San Salvador de Jujuy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Salvador de Jujuy is a great place to pick up souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the top items to look for include:

  • Handmade textiles: The area around San Salvador de Jujuy is known for its beautiful hand-woven textiles, including rugs, blankets, and clothing.

  • Local wine: The high-altitude vineyards surrounding San Salvador de Jujuy produce excellent wines that make great gifts.

  • Regional pottery: The area is also known for its beautiful pottery, which features unique designs and patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is a city with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its music, art, and cuisine. Visitors to the city should be aware of local customs, including the importance of punctuality and the practice of greeting others with a kiss on the cheek.

Best Time to Visit San Salvador de Jujuy

The best time to visit San Salvador de Jujuy is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Salvador de Jujuy

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including traditional dishes like locro and humita.
  • Explore the city’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to its top museums and historical sites.
  • Take part in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and rafting.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and manners, including punctuality and kissing on the cheek when greeting others.
  • Assume everyone speaks English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish before visiting.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is a relatively safe city for visitors. However, travelers should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes, especially in crowded areas.

Health in San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is located at high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness. It’s important to stay hydrated and take things slowly when first arriving in the city. Throughout Argentina, it is recommended that you keep your vaccinations up to date.

Getting to San Salvador de Jujuy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Salvador de Jujuy

The closest major airport to San Salvador de Jujuy is the Jujuy International Airport (JUJ), located approximately 25 kilometers outside the city.

Bus Stations Near San Salvador de Jujuy

San Salvador de Jujuy is well-connected to other cities in Argentina by bus, with the main bus terminal located in the city center.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach San Salvador de Jujuy by train or by car. It’s best to arrange transportation in advance.

How to Get Around in San Salvador de Jujuy

The best way to get around San Salvador de Jujuy is by taxi or by renting a car. Public transportation options are limited.

Where to Go Next from San Salvador de Jujuy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting from San Salvador de Jujuy include:

  • Salta: This beautiful colonial city is located just a few hours’ drive from San Salvador de Jujuy and boasts a vibrant cultural scene and excellent food.

  • Purmamarca: This charming village is located in the heart of the stunning Quebrada de Humahuaca and is known for its colorful mountains and traditional crafts.

  • Cafayate: This wine-producing region is located a few hours’ drive from San Salvador de Jujuy and is a great place to sample some of Argentina’s world-renowned wine.

Conclusion

San Salvador de Jujuy is a vibrant destination that offers travelers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike through stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax and enjoy delicious food and wine, San Salvador de Jujuy has something for everyone. So start planning your visit today and discover all that this charming city has to offer.

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