Embark on an exciting day trip to Chiu Chiu and Pukara de Lasana from Calama, unveiling the cultural heritage of the villages in the Alto del Loa region in the Atacama Desert. Welcome to the heart of the Atacama!
Tour Highlights
At the designated time, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Calama, kicking off our journey in an off-roading vehicle for an immersive experience in Chiu Chiu and Pukara de Lasana. Ready?
Covering approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles), this expedition delves into the history and culture of the main villages in the Alto del Loa, immersing you in the essence of the Atacama Desert. Let the adventure begin!
Our first stop near Calama is Santa Margarita, renowned for its marble quarries and its picturesque location alongside the Loa River. Moving forward, we reach the Inca Coya Lagoon—an eerie enclave shrouded in mystery and surrounded by legends. Are you curious to explore these tales?
By 1 pm, we'll arrive at San Francisco de Chiu Chiu, granting you an hour of free time to try the local cuisine. Post-lunch, we unravel the history of Chiu Chiu, a town conquered by the Spaniards, who founded the current settlement, naming it Atacama la Chica.
Continuing our exploration of Chiu Chiu, we'll pause at the San Francisco Church—the oldest in Chile—designated a National Monument. Fun fact: its structure and expansive portals are crafted from cactus wood, adding a unique touch to this historic site!
At 3 pm, our journey proceeds to Pukara de Lasana, housing remnants dating back to the 6th century and representing the initial communities inhabiting the pre-mountainous area of the Atacama Desert. Learn fascinating insights about their agro-pottery-based culture as we navigate this archaeological site.
As the day concludes around 7 pm, we'll say our goodbyes and return to your hotel.