Nestled in the mountain, Iruya rises with its magical houses made of adobe, stone and straw. A unique place, worth visiting.

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With jaw-dropping landscapes, nestled in the mountain, Iruya rises, with its magical little houses made of adobe, stone and straw.

When one walks through its narrow and cobbled streets, one has the certain sensation of ascending or descending from the mountain, given the inclination of the terrain.

It is a magical place, as lost in the middle of nature as it is imposing. Iruya is located at 2780 masl at 320 km. from Salta, the capital of the province. To access it, you must go through the province of Jujuy, traveling along National Route No. 9.

Its geographical beauty and its resemblance to a town out of a dream make it really an obligatory stop on the route of the province of Salta.

According to the climatic conditions the months of June, July, August, September and October are the ideal months to visit Iruya.

The Town of Iruya has a great history, it was founded in 1753, but nevertheless its origin dates back to a century prior to its founding date, birth certificates found in the parish of Humahuaca in the province of Jujuy, testify that a century before its foundation, inhabitants were already settled in the place.

These settlements are mainly indigenous settlements whose most remote antecedents are the ocloyas, a people belonging to the Kolla ethnic group, who in turn derive from the Kollasuyo, one of the four regions of the ancient Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire).

In the town of Iruya, the aboriginal culture intersects with the Hispanic culture, achieving the survival of both, which has generated a historical process of interculturality.

The people who live in Iruya are properly from this place, with their colorful clothes, made with their own hands, immersed in their beliefs and practicing their traditions.

Here, the inhabitants, clothing, customs and houses have maintained their tradition for 250 years.

What does the word Iruya mean?

The name of iruya comes from Quechua origin and can be translated as ‘abundant straw‘ or ‘Place of the high pastures‘.

What can be done in Iruya?

Among the recommended activities are horseback riding, hiking or trekking.

Another great feature is the religious festivities, the most important of all takes place on the first weekend of October, with the services of the Virgen del Rosario.

Hundreds of locals moved by their faith participate in religious acts singing, praying and playing native instruments (quenas, boxes and sikus).

The music is accompanied by the typical dance of the ‘cachis’, a group of disguised with masks whose dance symbolizes the eternal struggle of good and evil.