1,620km (1,004 miles) NW of Buenos Aires; 90km (56 miles) N of Salta
The regional capital of Jujuy, San Salvador -- commonly called Jujuy -- was established by the Spaniards in 1592 as their northernmost settlement in Argentina. In 1812, during the wars of independence, General Belgrano evacuated residents of the city before Spanish troops arrived -- an event known as éxodo jujeño (Jujuy Exodus), celebrated each July. Smaller than Salta, the well-preserved colonial town doesn't have a great deal to offer, besides a few interesting museums and a beautiful cathedral surrounding Plaza Belgrano. The Indian market across from the bus terminal offers a good sense of daily life here, with many vendors dressed in traditional costumes selling food, indigenous crafts, and textiles. Jujuy is also the best base from which to explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca (Humahuaca Gorge), which extends to the north. The circuit includes the Cerro de los Siete Colores (Hill of the Seven Colors), the artists' haven Tilcara, and La Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) gorge.
