Plaza 9 de Julio

The basics

Walking tours of Cachi all stop at the central Plaza 9 de Julio, where you can admire the 18th-century adobe church, Iglesia San José, then browse the collections at the Cachi Archeological Museum, which include items excavated from many of the region’s archaeological sites. Most travelers visit Cachi as part of a day trip from Salta, combining the town with nearby Los Cardones National Park, famous for its giant cacti.

Things to know before you go

• It’s free to stroll around the square and visit the church, but there is a small admission fee for the museum.

• You’ll find an ATM and restaurants on Plaza 9 de Julio.

• The square is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, though there are a few sections with cobblestones or uneven paving.

• Note that Cachi sits at an altitude of 8,304 feet (2,531 meters) above sea level. If you’ve flown straight into Salta, it may take a few days to become acclimated.

How to get there

You can’t miss Plaza 9 de Julio, the town’s main square, which is an easy walk from anywhere in the center. Most travelers arrive in Cachi by driving or taking a guided tour, and it’s about 3 hours from Salta along Highway 40.

When to get there

You can walk around Plaza 9 de Julio anytime, but it’s typically liveliest in the morning or early afternoon/evening. Avoid visiting on a Monday if you can, as many shops and attractions are closed. The winter months of May through November provide the coolest weather, but if you visit in the summer, prepare for hot and humid weather with a high chance of showers.

Exploring the sights around Salta

A multi-day trip from Salta or San Salvador de Jujuy will often include a stop in Cachi on its itinerary. Combine a visit to the town with regional attractions such as the market town of Purmamarca, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Humahuaca gorge, and the famous Hill of Seven Colors. There are also the red cliffs and vineyards of the Calchaquí Valley to the south and the Salinas Grandes salt flats to the north.