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La Quiaca
La Quiaca is situated at an elevation of 3,442 meters in the Argentine Puna region, marking the northern terminus of National Route 40. The city is directly connected to the neighboring Bolivian town of Villazón via an international bridge. The constant border traffic shapes the local economy, blending indigenous Andean traditions with modern commercial trade. The local climate is dry and cold, with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Municipal markets sell a mix of Bolivian and northern Argentine goods, including alpaca wool textiles and pottery. The gastronomy is heavily Andean, featuring quinoa, dried llama meat (charqui), and traditional corn-based stews. La Quiaca serves as a base for trips to the historical village of Yavi, located 16 kilometers away and recognized for its 17th-century colonial church. Further west is the Laguna de los Pozuelos natural reserve, which provides habitat for thousands of flamingos. The dry months from April to November offer the most reliable travel conditions for exploring the high-altitude surroundings.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Reverencia a las Tribus Aborígenes · Calesita · Ruta 40 Km 5080
- Nearby: Iruya (53 km)
- Population: ~14.751 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 114 | 95 | 73 | 19 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 32 | 42 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Elevation of 3,442 meters
- Border with Villazón in Bolivia
- Northern terminus of Route 40
- Center of the high Puna region
- Dry and cold climate
- Traditional Andean markets
- Starting point for Yavi village
- Close to Laguna de los Pozuelos
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town La Quiaca (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
La Quiaca: where is it located?
La Quiaca: what is there to see?
La Quiaca: when is the best time to visit?
La Quiaca: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
