Tierra Andina Hostel

The free breakfast comes in individual portions. Being right by the bus station was especially handy while I was adjusting to the altitude, and it was easy to get water or use a bathroom nearby. Main Street is about a five-minute walk, while the tube and garden are around 25 minutes away.

We planned to stay two nights but left after one because we couldn't bear staying longer. The online photos made the place look much better than it was: old, dirty, and with white stains on the sheets. Our toilet also didn't work. We were charged more than Google showed, and I wouldn't recommend staying here. There are much nicer places in Tilcara.

I know the reviews are mixed, but I had a really excellent stay. The staff were welcoming, the owner was great, and I met some lovely people. My eight-bed dorm on the second floor was fairly comfortable, and waking up to sunlight pouring over the mountains into the room was pretty amazing. It's just a two-minute walk from the bus terminal, and even though it's near the road, nights weren't very noisy. There's a shared kitchen and a friendly cat who apparently lives in a little house on top of the fridge. Breakfast was basic, bread with butter or jam and coffee, tea, and the like, but fair for the price. A good affordable option within walking distance of the beautiful center of this small mountain town.

We took a private room with a shared bathroom, and it wasn't a pleasant stay. The beds were really uncomfortable, and we had to ask before anyone brought us towels. Music from the bar next door kept blaring past midnight; once it stopped, we were woken by a baby crying next door. This might suit people out partying who only need somewhere to crash. Booking in person may be better, since online seemed to cost more and made the stay feel even less worthwhile.