La tucumana Tafí del Valle

When the road to the Calchaqui valleys opened up, the place changed completely. The population grew so much that many of its older inhabitants moved away because they did not like crowds.

This is how in a matter of years, Tafí del Valle turned into a summer village for tourists from different parts of the Northwestern Argentina. They began to enjoy the microclimate of the city as well as the natural beauty.

Among the tourist attractions that the visitor should not miss is La Banda Jesuit Museum, which turns out to be one of the most important in the village. The history and tradition of the whole area stand out and it dates back to the time of the Jesuit evangelization of the native colonies.


Shopping Tour

What attracts most tourists is walking along its narrow and cobbled-stone roads or going well into the mountain range on horseback which, beside hiking and walking, allows people to breathe fresh air.

The cheeses, as well as the old and traditional farms where they are produced, allow visitors to try part of the recipes that once belonged to the Jesuits and which they left written to be passed on from generation to generation.

A typical tour around the wide main road is a must in this small city. It offers tourists the typical handicrafts and souvenirs that they wish to find on their trips.

Products range from leather crafts, textiles and items woven with sheep wool, to ponchos, looms, leather garments and blankets. These, together with the traditional pottery of the place give the shopping tour a colorful touch that makes it unique from all perspectives. The music, with its most representative instruments, is another activity that can be enjoyed with each breath. From big bombos (Argentine bass drums), charangos (small stringed instrument) to boxes, guitars and violins are offered as souvenirs or instruments depending on who means to play them.


Empanadas and Pitchers of Wine

Both at lunch and dinner time, the local restaurants offer a wide gastronomic variety that begins with the typical empanadas and tamales and goes on with first class dishes like lamb, fish and locro.

The excellent agriculture of the region, together with the culinary art of truly amazing recipes by the local people, make an attraction of each meal.

Charqui is for many one of the mandatory dishes in Tafí del Valle and it is prepared in all restaurants in the city as well as in the nearby areas.

It is salty meat at room temperature and it does not have any chemicals or preservatives. It goes with cheese, salami and a wide variety of wine, among which the typical vino patero stands out in the region. Ideal partner for food and celebrations in Tafí del Valle, which usually end up with a bonfire and guitar playing, popular folk songs sang by women and men of this outstanding fertile valley in Tucumán.