Villa Tulumba, located 150 km north of Córdoba city in the scenic Sierras Chicas region, is a living testament to Argentina’s colonial history. Founded in 1585 and declared a Villa Real in 1803 by King Carlos IV, it features charming cobbled streets, ancient lampposts, and adobe houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, making it an open-air museum. It is home to a Baroque-style church with invaluable relics over 430 years old, and the ancient Sanavirones left behind over 35,000 rock paintings. Nestled between the breathtaking Salinas Grandes and Ansenuza National Park, Villa Tulumba offers a rich cultural experience combined with stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking historical exploration.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Huellas Coloniales – A Journey Through History
For history enthusiasts, the Huellas Coloniales experience offers an in-depth exploration of Villa Tulumba’s colonial architecture and cultural heritage. Guided by knowledgeable locals, visitors embark on a walking tour through the village, discovering ancient mansions, churches, and iron lampposts that reflect the Spanish colonial era. This immersive experience serves as a gateway to understanding the region’s history, culminating in a visit to the Camino Real Interpretation Center. Here, guests can engage with multimedia exhibits that showcase the significance of the Old Camino Real to Alto Perú, alongside an archaeological museum housing artifacts from indigenous cultures, further enriching the historical narrative.
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“Caminando Chacareras” – A Cultural Walking Experience
“Caminando Chacareras” offers a unique blend of nature and music, where local guides lead participants on scenic hikes along the Suncho River and through the surrounding hills. This experience highlights the natural landscapes that have inspired renowned Argentine artists, musicians, and poets, such as Atahualpa Yupanqui and Carlos Di Fulvio. Each hiking circuit is named after a traditional song, allowing participants to delve into the lyrics and metaphors through guided interpretation and observation of the inspiring scenery. The journey concludes with a delightful tasting of regional dishes and folk dance lessons, creating a vibrant cultural integration experience that celebrates the local heritage.
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Rural Stays – Embrace Nature and Tradition
Villa Tulumba’s burgeoning rural tourism scene presents visitors with the opportunity to enjoy personalized experiences in serene natural settings. Local establishments, such as Guayascate, Los Chañares, and Alpa Lodge & Family Retreat, offer not just accommodation but also engaging activities that highlight the region’s environmental commitment. Guests can partake in horseback riding, guided historical tours to indigenous settlements, birdwatching, and photographic safaris, all while indulging in regional and pre-Hispanic cuisine. These experiences immerse visitors in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Villa Tulumba, promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and the local community.
