Things To Do
in Rinconada
Rinconada is a highland town in northwestern Argentina, set against arid mountains and expansive skies. It preserves a rustic, Andean atmosphere with traditional crafts, local markets, and quiet plazas. The surrounding landscapes offer dramatic vistas, trekking routes, and opportunities to experience rural life away from crowded tourist hubs.
Visitors should prepare for cool nights and warm days as they explore the plaza, market stalls, and nearby nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You touch down in a small dusty airstrip just outside Rinconada and feel the crisp mountain breeze against your skin. After checking into a locally owned posada, you enjoy a steaming mate tea on the terrace overlooking rolling hills. The guide briefs you on the week ahead, highlighting hidden trails and village customs.
You wander through the main plaza, admiring colonial-style buildings painted in earth tones and intricate wooden balconies. Local artisans display handwoven textiles and pottery, offering stories about the craft traditions passed down through generations. You sample empanadas filled with goat cheese and tunta, savoring the first taste of regional cuisine.
As the sun sinks behind misty peaks, you join neighbors in the plaza for live folk music and traditional dances. Lanterns illuminate cobblestone streets while villagers share anecdotes about Rinconada’s founding. You retire early, lulled to sleep by distant guitar melodies and the promise of adventures to come.
You set off at dawn along a winding path that climbs through fragrant pine forests and wildflower meadows. Crisp air fills your lungs as you pause at a lookout offering sweeping views of the valley below. Your guide points out medicinal herbs used by local healers and explains their significance to indigenous culture.
After descending to a shaded stream, you enjoy a picnic lunch of fresh goat cheese, corn cakes, and hand-pressed olive oil. You then hike to a hidden waterfall, stepping carefully over mossy rocks to feel its cool spray. A brief swim in the crystal waters refreshes you before continuing through a grove of giant alerce trees.
Back in town, you join a potluck dinner at the community center, sampling stews made with wild mushrooms and quinoa. Villagers recount legends of mountain spirits and ancestral guardians as candles flicker in mason jars. You end the evening by stargazing from a rooftop terrace, marveling at the Milky Way’s brilliance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee / tea | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛏Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Andean town experience
- Stellar night skies and easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Distances to larger services can be long
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hable inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quisiera un agua, por favor" - I would like a water, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
Places to Visit in Rinconada
Visit one of these nice places.
Bright plaza scenes with traditional church architecture and morning light.
Wide-angle views of the highland valleys and distant peaks.
Textured walls, color washes, and street photography opportunities.
Golden-hour silhouettes of hills and town roofs.
Clear skies with minimal light pollution for star photography.
Food in Rinconada
Rinconada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory turnovers filled with spiced meat, potatoes, and a flavorful sofrito.
Must-Try!
A thick corn and bean stew with pork, squash, and herbs—perfect for cool evenings.
Sweet corn puree steamed in corn husks; a lighter, comforting dish.
Nutty quinoa soup enriched with vegetables and herbs.
Grilled mountain lamb or llama skewers with herbs and peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and ready-to-eat meals.
Evening vendors serving empanadas, tamales, and snacks with a view of the plaza.
Casual bites and hot beverages after day trips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous greeting in Spanish goes a long way; use ‘Buenos días/tardes’ and a handshake.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or villages.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural communities; be mindful of local customs and space in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Rinconada
Ensure a smooth experience
Around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; tips for guides and drivers are common at 10%.
Cash is widely accepted in town; many places take cards, especially in larger establishments. ATMs are available, but carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny days with warm afternoons and cool nights; thunderstorms are possible but infrequent.
Milder daytime temperatures, crisp mornings, and less crowds; bring a light jacket.
Cold mornings and evenings with clear days; pack layers and a warm jacket; occasional frost.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, and comfortable hiking conditions; carry water and sunscreen.
Rinconada at Night
Hiking in Rinconada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop with panoramic valley views and photography opportunities.
Rugged canyon path with dramatic rock formations and shade.
Day hike to a high-altitude lake with reflections; bring layers.
Airports
How to reach Rinconada by plane.
Major gateway with domestic flights; access Rinconada by road or private transfer.
Jujuy region airport useful for northern routes; connect to Salta for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Indigenous communities, mestizos, and families tied to farming and livestock.
Some people come for agricultural or mining work during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; games and pickup matches around the plaza.
Loved for day trips, viewpoints, and scenic trails.
Common in rural areas with guided rural trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rinconada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Rinconada you can navigate as a vegetarian by choosing dishes based on corn, potatoes, beans, quinoa, vegetables, and cheese. Ask for no lard or meat broth, and request egg-free sauces when needed. Many plazas offer vegetarian empanadas and humita; carry snacks for long day trips.