Tafí Del Valle

Diaguitas aborigines called it “the stunning entrance of the town” and they were not wrong. Tafí del Valle is one of the most idyllic destinies that Tucumán has. These valleys welcome tourists with green and brown landscapes in contrast with a perfect blue sky, a dam in which the sun reflects its light and unpaved paths which testify years of history.

Only 107 km (67 miles) from the Capital, Tafí is situated at 2000 metres (78740 inches) above sea level. The nice weather makes it possible to visit it throughout the year.
               
From San Miguel de Tucumán, tourists will be able to access to this idyllic town through the National Rout Nº 38 or the Provincial Rout Nº 301, and in the town of Acheral, take the Provincial Road Nº307. From there, tourists have to travel 60 km (37,5 miles) through the mountains toreach at the most recognized place of the province.

During the journey, you will get to know a scenic viewpoint called “El Indio”, located approximately 30 km (19 miles) before getting to Tafí del Valle, on 307 provincial road. It offers a breath-taking landscape. It has a six-metre-tall sculpture placed on a base of ten meters. This masterpiece was created by Enrique Prat Gay, a sculptor from Tucumán, who decided to call it “El Chasqui” to pay tribute to the messengers from Inca Empire. It was placed in January 1943. Over the years, it has been restored for its preservation. Besides the famous sculpture and the sightseeing to the amazing Yungas, handcraft stores are found there. You will find there typical products from the area, which can be acquired as souvenirs from the Valleys.

Despite its constant growth during the last years and after becoming one of the leading tourist destinations for Argentinians and foreigners, it still encloses the myths of the native culture among the hills.

Tourists will find several options to be visited if they decide to come: trekking, horse-riding, kayaking or canoeing in La Angostura dam and mountain biking through different paths or just walk around its historical traditional streets.  Besides, they will have the opportunity to appreciate handcraft products and eat delicious traditional food.

Some highly recommended places are: the museum and church of Jesuit from La Banda, where a handcraft market can be visited; La Quebradita, an ideal 10 km long path for trekking, picnics or horse-riding; a hillock with a Redeemer Christ statue; the traditional farms where tourists can stay, and also know how cheese is made and buy some; and an extraordinary sightseeing along the Provincial Route Nº 325 and a small part of Provincial Route Nº 307. This journey involves El Pelao Hill and Muñoz, Ñuñorco y Mala Mala hillsides with beautiful mountainsides where there are several pre-Columbian settlements.

Another must, especially for nature lovers, is Los Alisos waterfall. It is located in Muñoz hill. This magnificent waterfall waits for tourists, who after three hours walking will fall in love with the nature and landscape. The tour begins at Las Carreras Farm and it is available for those who want to have an incredible experience. It is highly recommendable to go with a tourist guide in order to avoid any inconveniences.

This is not all, Tafí del Valle possess an ancient handcraft tradition which leaves its footprints along the hills. Tourists will find in the area handcraft workshops, which offer their products made of wool, leather, stone, pottery, ceramics, etc. In order to know more about this must-see tour, visit THE HANDCRAFT ROAD.
               
There is a wide range of gastronomic and hotel variety for all tastes and budgets. Here it is also possible to find public services like the Bank of Tucumán office, public hospital with 24/7 guards, petrol stations, among others.

There are two major events in Tafi. First of all, “La Fiesta Nacional del Queso” (National Cheese Fest), this is held every February to honor this product well-known as the local symbol. There is a contest to award the best cheese from Tafí and the best handcraft store. Rural tasks as horse taming and rope can be seen. During nights, tourist can enjoy different national and provincial folk artist. The second one is “Vida y Pasión de Dios Hombre” (Life and Passion of God as a Man) which is a must-see event from this area.