One of the most common questions when traveling to the north is: what to do in Tucumรกn? Many times, this destination gets fewer days than it deserves, or itโs simply thought of as a stop on the way to another place in the country. But the truth is that the province of Tucumรกn has nothing to envy its northern sisters and, on the contrary, it will surprise you with every step you take through the Garden of the Republic.
History, culture, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes await you in Tucumรกn, a unique corner of Argentina thatโs well worth visiting. It all begins in San Miguel de Tucumรกn, and continues through the Calchaquรญ Valleys until reaching the Sacred City of Quilmes. A route that deserves your time so you can truly disconnect and relax.
At Rentennials, we promote a different way of traveling โ unrushed, sustainable, and allowing you to reach the places youโve been dreaming of. Keep reading and discover what to do in Tucumรกn.

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How to get to Tucumรกn?
Tucumรกn is located about 1,200 kilometers from Buenos Aires, 550 km from Cรณrdoba, and 1,000 km from Mendoza. From Buenos Aires or Mendoza, the best option is to take a flight to the capital, San Miguel de Tucumรกn. Aerolรญneas Argentinas, JetSmart, and Flybondi operate daily flights. If you’re departing from Mendoza, youโll likely need to connect in Buenos Aires.
If you’re in Cรณrdoba, getting there is very simple: take National Route 9 heading north, and youโll arrive in under 8 hours.
What’s the best way to explore Tucumรกn (by car)?
The best way to explore Tucumรกn is by car. The distances are short, the roads are in good condition, and they are paved.
Renting a car in Tucumรกn is the first step you should take. Youโll reach the places you really want to visit and avoid long waits for public transportation. Plus, youโll likely save much more money than booking tours that may not go where you want.
How many days do you need to explore Tucumรกn by car?
If you’re wondering what to do in Tucumรกn with the time you have, hereโs some good news: you donโt need many days. The province is small, so we recommend at least 7 days. Thatโs the ideal amount of time to stay in San Miguel de Tucumรกn, enjoy Tafรญ del Valle, and relax in Amaicha del Valle.
If you have more time, you can combine it with a trip through the Calchaquรญ Valleys in Salta or venture into Catamarca.
When is the best time to visit Tucumรกn by car?
Like all destinations in northern Argentina, the best time is between April and November. There are several reasons: the temperatures are more pleasant and, most importantly, rainfall is infrequent.
You can visit during the summer, but be aware that it rains more and itโs hotter, especially in the capital area. Also, since itโs high season, prices are slightly higher and there may be more crowds.
Places to visit in Tucumรกn
To organize an itinerary to travel through Tucumรกn by car and explore its best spots, itโs first important to understand the regions of the province. On one side, youโll find the destinations close to the capital, known as the Tucumรกn yungas. San Javier and El Cadillal are must-sees (along with San Miguel).
Another region lies to the west, known as the Calchaquรญ Valleys of Tucumรกn. Tafรญ del Valle and Amaicha del Valle are ideal towns to stay in and explore the surrounding landscapes.
Thatโs why, when planning what to do in Tucumรกn, itโs always important to keep the provinceโs regions in mind to better plan your route.

@visitargentina
What to do in Tucumรกn?
Everything begins with a few days in San Miguel de Tucumรกn, or even better, in one of the nearby towns in the yungas. Then, head west into the beautiful Calchaquรญ Valleys of Tucumรกn. Itโs a trip through the countryโs history, breathtaking landscapes, and exquisite gastronomy. Yes, youโll also find wineries with excellent wines.
First stop: San Miguel de Tucumรกn
San Miguel de Tucumรกn is a city full of history, visible in every block of its historic center. Museums, colonial architecture, and local cuisine all deserve a spot on your journey.
What to visit in San Miguel de Tucumรกn? Here are our top picks:
- Casa Histรณrica de la Independencia. One of the most iconic places in Argentinaโs history. The visit takes about one hour. Admission is free. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Mercedes Sosa Museum and Birthplace. You donโt need to be a folklore fan to enjoy this museum dedicated to our most internationally recognized singer. Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed at midday on weekends). Free entry.
- Museo Casa Padilla. A journey into the past to learn how the protagonists of the colonial era lived. Located across from the main square. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Free admission.
- Sugar Industry Museum. Perfect for those who want to understand the production of one of the countryโs key crops. Located in 9 de Julio Park. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry.
- Independence Square and the surrounding churches, including the Cathedral.
We recommend spending the first night in San Miguel (if you arrive late), and the next day dedicate a few hours to exploring the city.
El Cadillal, a different place
Located 20 kilometers north of San Miguel de Tucumรกn, El Cadillal Dam is a favorite spot for locals to spend the day enjoying various activities. You can take boat rides, kayak, rappel, go canyoning, among many others. Or simply sit down and relax.
Thereโs a tourist promenade with food options where you can enjoy local cuisine.
How to get there? Take National Route 9 and follow the signs to El Cadillal. Itโs just 20 minutes from the capital.
San Javier, among trails and greenery
Taking Provincial Route 340, youโll reach the village of San Javier, a must-see when deciding what to do in Tucumรกn. Youโll rest and reconnect with the yungas. Hiking, horseback riding, and cycling await you.
Youโll also find the Sierra de San Javier Park around the village, where youโll truly discover the Tucumรกn jungle at its best. Walk its trails โ theyโre suitable for all ages. If you want something more demanding, opt for the high-difficulty treks, perfect for adventure seekers.

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Scenic Route: Quebrada de los Sosa (RP 307)
Once youโve explored the Tucumรกn jungle, itโs time to head into the Calchaquรญ Valleys. To get there, take RP 307, one of the most scenic roads in Argentina. The road climbs gradually until reaching viewpoints that look out over the gorge carved by the La Angostura River.
We recommend taking it slow and stopping at each viewpoint.
El Mollar and Los Menhires
As you ascend, the jungle fades. The first village youโll encounter is El Mollar, located across from La Angostura Dam โ one of the highest artificial lakes in the world, at 2,000 meters above sea level. What can you do there? Itโs great for birdwatching, fishing, or water sports. Hereโs a secret: thereโs a challenging hike to รuรฑorco Grande that requires a guide and climbs to 3,320 meters above sea level.
Not far from El Mollar is one of the most “peculiar” archaeological sites in the country: Los Menhires, carved stones raised by ancient cultures.
Tafรญ del Valle, between hills and tranquility
A must when thinking about what to do in Tucumรกn: Tafรญ del Valle. This small town is perfect for staying a few nights and enjoying biking and horseback riding. If youโre into hiking, the Muรฑoz and El Pelao hills have trails youโll love.
Youโll also find the Calchaquรญ Peaks Provincial Park, with its unique landscape at 3,000 meters altitude, fossils, and petrified forests. Be aware: itโs challenging.

Ampimpa Observatory, a place to see the stars
Looking for a unique experience? Stargazing at Ampimpa is for you. Imagine: a whole day and night (even until dawn) dedicated to disconnecting through this unforgettable activity. No need to be an expert โ just bring your curiosity.
The visit includes afternoon snack, dinner, and breakfast, plus guided walks and star observation with specialists. Book here.
Thereโs also the option of daytime observations.
The Artisan Route
Along the way from El Mollar to Amaicha del Valle, youโll find numerous artisan workshops along the Artisan Route. Ceramics, textiles, metal jewelry, and more โ all made by producers rooted in ancestral knowledge. Local families open their doors so you can learn how each piece is created.

Amaicha del Valle
They say Amaicha del Valle has the most sunny days in Argentina โ around 360 per year. So thereโs some truth to it. If youโre looking to unwind, a few nights here are all you need. Nearby, youโll find Los Zazos Dam and the Remate waterfalls. Thereโs also a tour to the Tiu Punco desert, a surreal landscape โ guides are required.
Donโt miss the Pachamama Museum, a space to learn about the lives of the regionโs Indigenous peoples.
Sacred City of Quilmes
Near Amaicha del Valle, along National Route 40, lies one of the most important archaeological sites in Argentina: The Sacred City of the Quilmes. Inhabited around the 12th century, today you can explore the remains of their homes and sacred spaces.
Before walking the open site, donโt miss the Interpretation Center at the entrance โ a great way to understand what youโre about to see.
Itโs located 21 kilometers from Amaicha del Valle via RP 357. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The High Altitude Wine Route
This could be an article on its own, but we couldnโt leave it out. On the route from Tafรญ del Valle to Amaicha, youโll find wineries to visit. Many are located along National Route 40, between Amaicha and Cafayate, in Salta.
Here are some wineries to visit:
From Tucumรกn to Salta by car
Now that weโve answered the question of what to do in Tucumรกn, what comes next? One option is to continue your journey to Salta. From Amaicha del Valle, youโre just an hour away from Cafayate. You can either follow National Route 40 or take a unique route through the Quebrada de las Conchas to Saltaโs capital.
Rent a car in Tucumรกn with Rentennials and enjoy the journey
One of the most beautiful things about Argentina is that every place you visit leaves you with a special feeling. Tucumรกn has it all to offer an unforgettable experience thanks to its landscapes, history, and culture. All you have to do is get in the car and enjoy the pleasure of travel.
To make everything easier and better, rent a car with Rentennials. No hassle, no endless paperwork โ just everything you need to make your journey unique.