Things To Do
in Susques
Susques is a small town located in the province of Jujuy in northern Argentina. It is at an elevation of over 12,000 feet, making it one of the highest towns in the country. The town is known for its traditional Andean culture and stunning natural surroundings, including the nearby salt flats and volcanoes.
Visitors can explore the historic church, enjoy local crafts, and experience the unique way of life in this remote Andean community.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets to soak in the morning atmosphere.
Visit the local museum to learn about the area's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant serving regional cuisine.
Relax at a scenic spot to watch the sunset over the mountains. Finish your day with a quiet dinner, sampling more local flavors.
Set off early for a guided hike in the nearby mountains. Enjoy the fresh morning air and stunning views as you ascend.
Continue your hike until lunchtime, then have a picnic surrounded by nature. Take the afternoon to explore the less traveled paths.
Return to Susques as the sun begins to set, casting beautiful colors on the landscape. Have dinner at a cozy spot and share stories of your day's adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and the unique altiplano environment.
- Rich cultural heritage with indigenous influences and local traditions.
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, such as hiking, cycling, and exploring nearby salt flats and lagoons.
- Less touristy than other destinations, providing a more authentic experience.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Extreme weather conditions, with very cold nights and harsh daytime sun.
- Sparse public transportation options, making travel more challenging.
- Altitude sickness is a potential issue due to the high elevation.
Best Activities in Susques
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the rugged landscapes and stunning vistas of the Andes mountains through various hiking trails in the Susques area, suitable for different skill levels.
Experience breathtaking night skies in Susques, known for its low light pollution, making it an ideal location for star and planet observation.
Take a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can enjoy its colorful rock formations and rich cultural history.
Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions, customs, and lifestyles through various cultural experiences and guided tours.
Suitable for adventure enthusiasts, mountain biking in the diverse terrains around Susques offers thrill and scenic views.
Enjoy fishing in the local rivers and lagoons, where you can catch native species while soaking in the natural beauty.
Capture the stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage with your camera in the picturesque surroundings of Susques.
Places to Visit in Susques
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning mountain offers a breathtaking view of vibrant colored rock formations, ideal for photography especially during sunrise and sunset.
The vast salt flats provide a unique landscape with endless reflections, perfect for capturing surreal images, particularly on sunny days.
A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and rare wildlife, providing an excellent opportunity for nature photography and bird watching.
This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the valleys and mountains surrounding Susques, making it a great spot for landscape photography.
Located nearby, this UNESCO World Heritage site features dramatic landscapes and colorful hills, perfect for capturing the essence of the region.
Food in Susques
Susques Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made of ground corn, onion, and spices, wrapped in corn husks and boiled. Served as a savory and comforting snack or meal.
Must-Try!
A thick and hearty stew made of corn, beans, meat (usually beef or llama), and Andean spices. It is a staple dish during festivals and colder months.
Savory pastries filled with minced meat, potatoes, eggs, and regional spices. They are widely available in local bakeries and street food stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering a variety of local produce, handicrafts, and street food. Visitors can sample traditional snacks like tamales, humitas, and grilled meats.
A central hub for street food where visitors can find vendors selling freshly prepared empanadas, grilled choripan (sausage sandwiches), and traditional Andean sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Susques, it's customary to greet people warmly with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. Greeting is a sign of respect, so ensure to greet everyone when entering a space.
Traditional customs value modesty in dress. While casual attire is generally accepted, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in local ceremonies.
Susques is home to indigenous communities. Show respect for their customs, practices, and languages. Avoid making assumptions about their culture and listen actively to their perspectives.
Safety
Tipping in Susques
Ensure a smooth experience
In Susques, Argentina, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. Common practices include rounding up the bill at restaurants or leaving a small percentage as a tip, typically around 10%. In the hospitality sector, such as hotels and tour services, leaving a tip for good service is common, although the amounts may vary based on the quality of service and the establishment.
Payment methods in Susques vary, with cash being the most preferred option, particularly in smaller shops and markets. Many establishments may not accept credit or debit cards, so it is advisable to have sufficient cash on hand. When payments are made with cards, they are often subject to additional fees. In urban areas, mobile payment options are becoming more common, but their availability may be limited in more rural or less touristic regions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From December to February, temperatures can soar, reaching highs of 25-30°C (77-86°F). This period is great for outdoor activities, but visitors should be prepared for intense sunlight and occasional rain.
March to May sees milder temperatures, ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). This season offers stunning landscapes as the foliage changes color, making it ideal for photography and exploration.
June to August brings cooler temperatures from 0-15°C (32-59°F). While it is chilly, the scenery covered in snow can be breathtaking. Visitors can enjoy winter sports and unique local cultural experiences.
September to November is characterized by warming temperatures between 10-20°C (50-68°F). Wildflowers bloom, and it is a lively season for festivals and outdoor pursuits, making it a perfect time for hiking and sightseeing.
Susques at Night
Hiking in Susques
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A colorful mountain located near Purmamarca, it's part of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, offering stunning views and hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with scenic landscapes, this region provides numerous hiking opportunities along its stunning canyons and ancient cultural sites.
Located near the town of Tilcara, this mountain offers challenging hikes with rewarding views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
A beautiful lagoon located just northwest of Susques, this area is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the unique Andean landscape.
A vast salt flat with unique geological features, hiking through this area offers a surreal experience and stunning photo opportunities.
Aiports
How to reach Susques by plane.
Located in Buenos Aires, approximately 1,500 km from Susques, this is one of the main airports serving domestic and international flights.
Also located in Buenos Aires, around 1,600 km from Susques, it is the largest international airport in Argentina, handling numerous long-haul international flights.
Located in Tucumán, approximately 800 km from Susques, this airport handles domestic and limited international flights.
Located in the city of Resistencia, approximately 1,050 km from Susques, it serves regional and domestic flights.
Located in the city of Comodoro Rivadavia, about 1,300 km from Susques, this airport offers domestic and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Susques, primarily consisting of the Kolla and Atacama indigenous communities.
People of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, forming a considerable portion of the population.
Residents who are descendants of European immigrants, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Includes individuals of Hispanic background who do not fall under the indigenous or mestizo categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Susques, Argentina, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Rugby has gained popularity in Susques, with local clubs participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is enjoyed by many youths in Susques, with local schools and recreational teams.
Athletics, including running and track events, are popular, especially during local festivals and competitions.
Cycling is a favored activity in Susques, both as a recreational sport and for local races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susques.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often feature meat, many restaurants in Susques offer vegetarian and vegan versions of popular meals, incorporating local produce and creative plant-based substitutes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives in some restaurants and cafes, particularly those that emphasize natural and unprocessed ingredients.