Iruya is a remote village tucked into the mountains at nearly 2,800 meters (9,200 ft) above sea level. It feels like time has stopped here — the cobbled streets, adobe houses, and mountain views are simply magical.
Why visit
It’s one of the most picturesque towns in Argentina, perched on the edge of a cliff with panoramic views of the Andes. It’s also the gateway to the even more remote San Isidro de Iruya.
What to do in Iruya
- Walk through the village and visit the 18th-century church.
- Hike to Mirador del Cóndor, for breathtaking views of the valley.
- Enjoy local food: try llama stew or corn empanadas.
- Meet local artisans and indigenous communities.
San Isidro de Iruya
This tiny village lies about 8 km (5 mi) from Iruya and can be reached by foot or horseback (about 2.5–3 hours one way). It’s a peaceful community with less than 300 inhabitants, surrounded by mountains and farmland.
The trek to San Isidro is ideal for travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Stay the night in a basic guesthouse for a full experience.
How to get to Iruya
- From Humahuaca, take Ruta Provincial 133 — the road is steep and partly unpaved, crossing high-altitude mountain passes.
- Only accessible by 4×4 or experienced drivers — but it’s worth the effort.
- Many visitors arrive by bus or guided tours.
Northern Argentina is a land of contrasts: red deserts, green valleys, jagged rock formations, ancient cultures, and peaceful mountain towns. Whether you’re driving through the otherworldly Quebradas, hiking between remote villages, or enjoying Andean cuisine in a lively plaza, this region offers unforgettable experiences for curious and adventurous travelers.
Want to combine these spots into a personalized trip? Let us help you create your perfect Northern Argentina journey!
We are a local travel agency based in Argentina that offers personalized tours in Argentina and Chile. We offer self-drive tours, road trips with private drivers, itineraries with shared or private excursions, and other kinds of touristic services adapted to the preferences of our travelers. If you’re keen on visiting Abra El Acay, please let us know, and we’ll try to help you find the most convenient way to do it. Please notice that some times the pass can’t be transited, in that scenario, a suitable alternative is usually offered.
Get inspired by our tours, such as the following ones:
Tours in Salta and Northern Argentina
Northwest of Argentina Holidays
Tolar Grande and the Altilpano
Apart from those, we offer other kinds of tours in Argentina and Chile, and we invite you to explore them here:
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