Things To Do
in Aguilares

Aguilares is a small agricultural town in Tucumán Province, Argentina, nestled in the Lerma Valley with a rural, sunlit landscape. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding fruit groves, sugarcane fields, and quiet country roads that characterize the region. The town offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere and a chance to experience everyday life away from larger cities.

Visitors can combine a stroll through the central plaza with easy day trips to nearby natural and cultural sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Plaza San Martín, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and admire the beautiful colonial architecture. Grab a traditional Argentine breakfast at a local café, sampling medialunas and mate as you soak in the local culture. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, discovering quaint shops and historical landmarks along the way.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby parrilla, head to the Museo Histórico de Aguilares to delve into the rich history of the region. Spend some time exploring the exhibits, which showcase the cultural heritage and local traditions of Aguilares. As the day unfolds, consider visiting the nearby church, Parroquia San José, renowned for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, featuring Argentine specialties such as asado or empanadas. After your meal, take a leisurely evening walk through the plaza, where you might catch live music or performances from local artists. Conclude your day with a relaxing drink at a café, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Aguilares.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your day at the Mercado Municipal, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste fresh local produce. Engage with friendly vendors and sample traditional foods like dulce de leche and local cheeses. The market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted items to remember your trip.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, take a guided tour of a local artisanal workshop where you can see traditional crafts being made. Participate in a hands-on workshop, learning to create your own piece of art or craft, guided by skilled artisans. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, savoring the flavors of homemade dishes using local ingredients.

evening
:

As evening approaches, join a cooking class where you will learn to make traditional Argentine dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to dinner with fellow participants, sharing stories and laughter over your meal. End the night with a visit to a nearby bar featuring local wines and traditional folk music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🚗Taxi ride within town$3-6
🏨Budget hotel night$25-50
Coffee/tea at café$2-4
🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant$25-45

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic small-town Argentine experience
  • Affordable prices and warm locals
  • Convenient access to rural scenery and nearby natural spots
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Smaller selection of high-end dining and amenities
  • Public transport options may be less frequent than in bigger cities
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
  • "¿Qué recomienda?" - What do you recommend?

Places to Visit in Aguilares

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Central de Aguilares

Bustling central square with colonial-style buildings, trees, and daily life—an excellent spot for candid street photography and architectural details.

Iglesia Parroquial de Aguilares

Historic parish church with simple, classic lines that create a strong silhouette, especially during golden hour.

Río Salí and valley edges

Riverside views and open valley landscapes that capture the rural geography of Tucumán.

Rural farmland at sunset

Fields of citrus and sugarcane with long shadows; ideal for wide, atmospheric shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aguilares

The cuisine in Aguilares reflects Tucumán’s agricultural heritage, with hearty meats, corn-based dishes, fresh produce, and flavorful street snacks. Expect simple, flavorful preparations that highlight locally grown ingredients. Coffee and mate are popular daily rituals, enjoyed in cafés and during conversations with neighbors. Regional snacks and empanadas are common on market stalls and during casual meals.

Aguilares Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Empanadas tucumanas

Savory turnovers filled with beef, onions, olives, and spices; commonly found in markets and at local bakeries.

Must-Try!

Locro

Thick corn and bean stew often enjoyed during cooler days or special gatherings.

Asado y milanesas

Grilled meats and breaded cutlets are staples at family gatherings and casual eateries.

Humita en chala

Savory corn puree wrapped in corn husk; a popular light option in markets and cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Aguilares

Local market offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional snacks; a great place to sample everyday foods and observe daily life.

Street stalls along the central avenue

Informal bites like empanadas, humitas, and simple pastries popular for a quick, tasty snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aguilares experiences a warm, subtropical climate typical of the Tucumán region, with hot summers, mild springs, and comfortable autumns. Winters are mild, with cool nights but generally pleasant daytime temperatures. Rain is more common in the summer months, contributing to lush landscapes in the surrounding countryside.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm, friendly greeting is appreciated; handshakes are common in casual business settings, while cheek kisses may occur among friends and family.

Conversation

Politeness and small talk are valued; avoid controversial topics in initial conversations.

Punctuality

Times are generally relaxed in social settings, but arrive on time for formal appointments or tours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aguilares is generally safe for travelers, especially in daytime and during organized tours. Exercise standard precautions: keep valuables secure, use reputable transport, and be mindful of traffic and uneven sidewalks. In case of emergency, dial local numbers or contact your accommodation for guidance.

Tipping in Aguilares

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A modest tip (around 10%) is customary if service is not included; cash tips are common for small eateries and taxi drivers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and often humid with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Warm days and cooler evenings; excellent visibility for outdoor photography and comfortable hiking conditions.

Winter

Mild to cool days with cooler nights; light layers are recommended and daytime explorations remain pleasant.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures with blossoming landscapes; ideal for markets, walks, and countryside drives.

Nightlife Guide

Aguilares at Night

In Aguilares, nightlife tends to be low-key compared with larger cities. You’ll find relaxed bars, cafés with live folk or regional music, and social gatherings around plazas. Local peñas and small venues sometimes host traditional music nights featuring chacarera and zamba, offering authentic cultural experiences without heavy tourist crowds.

Hiking in Aguilares

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lerma Valley ridge trails

Scenic, easy-to-moderate hikes along the valley edges with views over agricultural fields and distant hills.

Countryside loop paths

Gentle walking routes through citrus groves and farmland; suitable for half-day excursions.

Río Salí riverbank walk

Flat, family-friendly paths along the river; great for birdwatching and sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Aguilares by plane.

Teniente General Benjamín Matienzo International Airport (TUC)

The closest major airport serving Tucumán and the surrounding region; from Aguilares, expect a drive of roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic and route.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights clustered around the plaza. For countryside excursions, a car or local transport is helpful. Sidewalks can be uneven in places, so plan accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families and long-term residents

Many residents are rooted in agricultural livelihoods with strong community ties.

Young professionals and students

Some younger residents travel to nearby cities for education and work, returning for community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (fútbol)

The most popular sport in the region, with local pickup games and community clubs shaping weekend activity.

Rugby and tennis

Popular regional recreational activities, especially among schools and clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in Aguilares, with occasional congestion around the town center during market days or events. Public buses connect to San Miguel de Tucumán and surrounding towns; taxis are common for shorter trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aguilares.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for plant-based dishes like humita, salads, seasonal vegetables, and cheese-filled options; ask for grilled vegetables or vegetarian empanadas where available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in Aguilares, with more comprehensive facilities in San Miguel de Tucumán. Carry your health insurance information and any necessary medications. In emergencies, call local emergency services or visit a hospital in the nearby city.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide