"ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOUR: FROM THE ANCESTORS WITH LUNCH" Tour

"ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOUR: FROM THE ANCESTORS WITH LUNCH" Tour

ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOUR – San Pedro de Atacama. Discover the ancestral heart of the Atacama Desert on an enriching Archaeological Tour that reveals thousands of years of human history in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. This experience is designed for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of the cultures that inhabited the desert long before modern times, blending archaeology, history, and spectacular landscapes. The tour explores key archaeological sites around San Pedro de Atacama, where ancient pre-Columbian civilizations—particularly the Atacameño (Lickanantay) culture—developed sophisticated ways of life adapted to the desert. Along the route, you will visit areas with petroglyphs, ancient settlements, ceremonial sites, and burial grounds, each offering insight into the social organization, spiritual beliefs, trade routes, and daily life of these early communities.

Expert local guides provide detailed explanations of the archaeological findings, the symbolism behind rock art and artifacts, and the influence of Andean cosmology on these cultures. You will learn how the Atacameños mastered agriculture through irrigation systems, engaged in long-distance trade across the Andes, and maintained strong cultural ties that still resonate in the region today. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atacama Desert—volcanoes, salt flats, and rugged mountain ranges—this tour offers a perfect balance between cultural discovery and natural beauty. Explore the village of Peine Viejo, a remarkable site that preserves traces of the earliest communities to settle in the region. Here, you can observe ancient dwellings built from mud, branches, and straw, as well as fortified walls and pukaras, designed to protect inhabitants from potential invaders. The use of stone in certain constructions reflects the influence of Inca architectural traditions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cultural fusion that shaped northern Chile. Peine Viejo stands as a lasting testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its early inhabitants, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and anyone curious about ancient civilizations, the Archaeological Tour in San Pedro de Atacama is a meaningful journey into the origins, traditions, and enduring legacy of one of South America’s most fascinating cultures.

Itinerary

• Our tour begins with hotel pickup in San Pedro de Atacama around 8:00 AM, heading toward the Village of Tulor, an ancient settlement partially buried by desert sands.
• We embark on a journey "from the ancestors," exploring one of the oldest archaeological sites in the Salar basin, renowned for its historical significance in northern Chile. The site features mud-constructed dwellings, some reaching up to 2 meters in height, offering a glimpse into early human habitation in the region.
• Next, we visit Pukará de Quitor, a strategic fortress where we learn about the history of the Atacameño people—from their early settlements around 900 BC, the beginnings of agriculture, the influence of the Inca Empire, to the arrival of the Spanish. This location also provides breathtaking views of the San Pedro oasis, the valley of the San Pedro River, and the majestic Andes mountains.
• Midday, we enjoy a delicious traditional Atacameño lunch, immersing ourselves in the flavors and culinary heritage of the region.
• Our journey continues to the village of Peine Viejo, where remnants of the first communities in the area are preserved. Visitors can observe structures made of mud, branches, and straw, along with walls and pukaras built to defend against invading peoples. The presence of stone constructions demonstrates the influence of Inca architectural techniques, offering a lasting testament to the rich cultural blend of northern Chile.
• The tour concludes with a return to the hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, arriving around 5:15 PM.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English.
• Entrance fees.
• Pick-up from your accommodation,
• Snack.
• Water.
• Lunch.

Does not include

• Tips and gratuities.
• Professional guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.
• Other services not described in the program.

Notes:

• Altitude of 2400 meters above sea level.
• Level of difficulty: Low difficulty.
• Minimum age required for the tour: 3 years old.
• Excursion days and schedules may vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and the groups forming.
• The final itinerary will be confirmed upon your arrival in San Pedro and may even change during your stay.