
Plaza Principal Humahuaca
The vibrant heart of Humahuaca, a historic plaza famous for its daily noon blessing and colorful artisan markets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the San Francisco Solano blessing

Plaza Principal Humahuaca
Best Time
Witness the San Francisco Solano blessing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The vibrant heart of Humahuaca, a historic plaza famous for its daily noon blessing and colorful artisan markets.
"A beautiful place with great atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and experiencing local culture."

🎯 Arrive for the Noon Blessing
Be in the plaza before noon to see the San Francisco Solano blessing!
⛰️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Buy coca candies or tea to help with altitude. Stay hydrated!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Plaza Principal San Francisco Solano
Humahuaca Town Center
The heart of Humahuaca, where history, culture, and daily life converge. Don't miss the noon blessing!

Monument to the Heroes of Independence
Near the Plaza Principal
A significant landmark offering insights into Argentina's history and great views of the surrounding mountains.

Traditional Artisan Shops
Around the Plaza Principal
Browse colorful textiles, crafts, and local products. Perfect for souvenirs and experiencing local culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Noon Blessing
Altitude Awareness & Local Remedies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for the Noon Blessing
Be in the plaza before noon to see the San Francisco Solano blessing!
⛰️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Buy coca candies or tea to help with altitude. Stay hydrated!
🛍️ Explore Artisan Markets
Great place for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
🚶♀️ Wander the Historic Streets
Discover charming colonial buildings and local life around the plaza.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for the Noon Blessing
Be in the plaza before noon to see the San Francisco Solano blessing!
⛰️ Altitude Sickness Prep
Buy coca candies or tea to help with altitude. Stay hydrated!
🛍️ Explore Artisan Markets
Great place for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
🚶♀️ Wander the Historic Streets
Discover charming colonial buildings and local life around the plaza.
💰 Support Local Guides
Consider hiring an independent guide to learn local history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Plaza Principal Humahuaca to be a charming and historically rich central square. The daily noon blessing is a highlight, offering a unique cultural experience. The surrounding colonial buildings and artisan shops add to its appeal, making it a pleasant place to relax and explore.
"Super fun at carnival Feb 10, 2024"
April Lam
"Very nice place where you can enjoy this incredible monument. Up there, there’s also a nice view of the mountains/cactus. If you are in Humahuaca, you should definitely not miss this place !"
Noreen Louis
"Good place to relax and visit tradicional shops."
Olivier Antunes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Principal Humahuaca is the central square in the town of Humahuaca, located in the Jujuy Province of Argentina. You can reach Humahuaca by bus from major cities like Salta or Jujuy. Once in town, the plaza is easily walkable from most accommodations.
Parking can be challenging in the narrow streets around the plaza, especially during peak hours. It's often best to park a few blocks away and walk, or rely on public transport if arriving from outside town.
Humahuaca is best explored on foot. The Plaza Principal is the heart of the town, and most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy walking distance.
Yes, many tours from Salta and Jujuy city include Humahuaca as a stop. These tours often provide transportation and guided commentary, making it a convenient option for day-trippers.
Yes, you can drive to Humahuaca via National Route 9. The drive offers scenic views of the Quebrada de Humahuaca. Be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic, especially during holidays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Plaza Principal itself is a public space and is free to enter. You can wander around, enjoy the atmosphere, and witness the daily blessing without any charge.
The plaza is always accessible, as it's the central public square. However, the main attraction, the noon blessing by San Francisco Solano, happens daily at 12 PM.
No tickets are required for the noon blessing. It's a traditional event open to everyone. Arriving a little early is recommended to get a good viewing spot.
The shops themselves do not have an entrance fee. You can browse freely, and you only pay for any items you choose to purchase.
While the noon blessing draws a crowd, mornings and late afternoons are generally quieter. Visiting outside of the main tourist season can also lead to fewer people.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At precisely 12 PM each day, a figure of San Francisco Solano emerges from the Cabildo (town hall) to give a blessing to those gathered in the plaza. It's a significant cultural and religious event.
You'll find a variety of traditional handicrafts, including colorful textiles, ponchos, pottery, and local food products like coca candies and jams.
Absolutely! The colonial architecture, the bustling plaza, the Monument to the Heroes, and the surrounding colorful hills offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Humahuaca is situated at a high altitude, around 2,947 meters (9,669 feet) above sea level. It's advisable to take precautions against altitude sickness.
Yes, independent guides often offer walking tours around Humahuaca, sharing historical insights and local stories. You can usually find them near the plaza.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several restaurants and cafes surround the plaza, offering local Jujuy cuisine. You can also find street vendors selling snacks like fruit salads and empanadas.
Don't miss regional specialties like locro (a hearty stew), humitas (steamed corn cakes), tamales, and llama meat dishes. Many places offer delicious fruit salads and strawberry with cream.
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, often featuring corn, beans, and local vegetables. Humitas and some fruit-based dishes are naturally vegetarian.
Yes, street vendors are common, selling refreshing fruit salads, juices, and local treats like coca candies, which are popular for altitude.
Prices are generally reasonable, especially for street food and simpler eateries. Restaurants closer to the main plaza might be slightly more expensive but offer a wider range of dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Plaza Principal itself, the Monument to the Heroes, the colorful hills surrounding the town (like the Hill of Fourteen Colors), and the historic colonial buildings are all excellent photo subjects.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the landscapes and the town's architecture. Midday can be harsh but is perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of the hills.
Yes, you can take photos during the blessing, but be respectful of the religious nature of the event and the people participating. Avoid using flash if possible.
Climbing some of the hills surrounding Humahuaca, or even the steps leading up from near the plaza, provides stunning panoramic views of the town and the Quebrada.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and town shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the vastness of the Quebrada. A good smartphone camera is also sufficient for most travelers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring, remember the high altitude. Encourage children to drink plenty of water and take breaks. The town is very walkable, making it easy to navigate with strollers or for little legs to explore. The Monument to the Heroes of Independence also offers a chance to talk about history in a tangible way.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many artisan shops offer a range of price points for souvenirs, so you can find unique items without overspending. Consider staying in hostels or guesthouses slightly away from the immediate plaza area for better rates. Walking is the primary mode of transport within town, saving on local taxi fares.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider hiring an independent guide for a few hours to gain deeper insights into the town's history and culture. This is also a good opportunity to purchase authentic handicrafts and support local artisans. Don't forget to take precautions for the altitude, as it can affect anyone traveling solo.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Noon Blessing
This event is deeply ingrained in the town's identity and is a testament to its enduring traditions. The sight of the saint, the ringing bells, and the collective pause of the community create a powerful sense of place. It’s a moment where history feels alive and present, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Humahuaca.
Navigating Altitude in Humahuaca
Beyond local remedies, staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water is crucial. It's also wise to avoid strenuous activities on your first day and allow your body time to acclimatize. Taking it easy, resting, and listening to your body are key to enjoying your time in Humahuaca without discomfort. The stunning scenery and vibrant culture are well worth the adjustment period.
Exploring Humahuaca's Artisan Heritage
Visitors can find everything from practical items like bags and blankets to decorative pieces that capture the essence of the Andean region. Engaging with the artisans, many of whom are present in their shops, offers a deeper understanding of their craft and the cultural significance behind each piece. It’s a fantastic opportunity to support local communities and take home a truly authentic piece of Jujuy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit