Pintados Geoglyphs
Ancient geoglyphs etched into the Atacama Desert, revealing millennia of Andean history and artistry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and wind
Pintados Geoglyphs
Best Time
Beat the heat and wind
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient geoglyphs etched into the Atacama Desert, revealing millennia of Andean history and artistry.
"Out of this world! Beautiful panel of the most outrageous geoglyphs."
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing of distant geoglyphs. :binoculars:
Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen and protective clothing; the desert sun is intense. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Monumental Panel
Quebrada de los Pintados
Discover a vast collection of geoglyphs, including colonial and Inca-inspired figures, created thousands of years ago.
Colonial Scene Geoglyph
Quebrada Los Pintados, Guatacondo
See a unique geoglyph possibly depicting conquistadors, blending ancient Andean techniques with European influences.
Visitor Center Insights
Gain a deeper understanding of the geoglyphs' history, creation, and significance at the well-equipped visitor center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting the Best View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing of distant geoglyphs. :binoculars:
Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen and protective clothing; the desert sun is intense. :sunwithface:
Drone Flying Caution
Afternoon winds can be strong; morning is better for drone flights. :wind_face:
Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1-3 hours to explore the visitor center and walk the trails. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing of distant geoglyphs. :binoculars:
Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen and protective clothing; the desert sun is intense. :sunwithface:
Drone Flying Caution
Afternoon winds can be strong; morning is better for drone flights. :wind_face:
Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1-3 hours to explore the visitor center and walk the trails. :clock1:
Visitor Center Info
The museum offers great context and has restrooms. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Pintados Geoglyphs to be an interesting and historically significant stop, offering a unique glimpse into ancient Andean culture. The visitor center is praised for its informative content, and the walking trails provide good views. However, some find the geoglyphs difficult to recognize from a distance, and the desert heat can be challenging.
"Interesting stop along the way to stredge your legs. After you have paid for the entrance fee, you drive a couple of kms to reach a small museum that tells the history and background. Then you can walk about 3 km along a path to see from far the various geoglifos on the hills. Not all are easily recognisable despite them having been restored. You are not allowed to go to the hills for a closeup."
Ewald Van Der Helm
"Beautiful panel of the most outrageous geoglyphs; almost 400. Very nice 1km hiking track leading through some spectacular countryside with strange shapes on the topsoil caused by the humidity coming from underground and the nitrate bearing rock. Out of this world!"
Hein van Leeuwen
"There is a good bit to see, recommend a decent set of binoculars if you have them, but not a big deal without them. Entrance was about 500 meters drive from ticket booth. cost was 8500/adult and a bit lower for teens and younger. the visitors center is easy access even if walking is and issue and paved in some areas so there is some wheel chair access. recommend taking your time for about 1 hour min if you are into this sort of thing easy to spend 2-3 hour. Easy to find from google maps.
if you fly a drone its possible however the afternoon summer wind is very strong and gusty. plan on morning if possible if summer visit."
randy vee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pintados Geoglyphs are located in the Atacama Desert, Chile. They are easily found using Google Maps and are a short drive from the ticket booth. Many visitors stop here en route to other destinations.
Yes, you can drive to the site. The path from the ticket booth to the entrance is a couple of kilometers, and some areas are paved, offering some wheelchair accessibility.
The Pintados Geoglyphs are a significant stop when traveling between cities like Calama and Iquique. Renting a car or joining a guided tour are common options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are approximately 8500 CLP per adult, with a slightly lower cost for teenagers and children.
While specific hours can vary, it's best to visit during daylight. Mornings are recommended, especially in summer, to avoid the heat and wind.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Pintados Geoglyphs. Tickets can be purchased at the site.
After purchasing your ticket, you drive a short distance to the main viewing areas. You are not allowed to walk directly up to the hills where the geoglyphs are located for preservation reasons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of geoglyphs on the hillsides, including ancient figures, colonial representations, and Inca emblems. The visitor center provides context for these ancient artworks.
A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but you could easily spend 2-3 hours if you're particularly interested in the history and walking the trails.
Yes, there is a nice 1km hiking track that leads through the countryside to various viewpoints of the geoglyphs.
Visitors are not allowed to go directly to the hills for a close-up view to protect the geoglyphs. Viewing is done from designated paths and lookouts.
The visitor center is easily accessible, and some areas are paved, offering some wheelchair access. However, the walking trails to the geoglyph viewpoints may present challenges.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer dramatic shadows and highlight the geoglyphs. Be mindful of the intense midday sun.
Drone flying is possible, but be aware of strong and gusty afternoon winds, especially in summer. Morning flights are generally recommended for better conditions.
A camera with a good zoom lens is helpful to capture details from a distance. Binoculars can also aid in framing shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main trails are about 1 km, they are generally manageable for most children. Encourage them to spot different shapes and figures from a distance. Binoculars can add an element of fun and discovery. Remember to pack plenty of water and sun protection for everyone.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own snacks and water, as options at the site might be limited or more expensive. If you're traveling independently, renting a car can be cost-effective if split among a group, allowing you to visit at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Art of Geoglyphs
These geoglyphs are not just simple drawings; they are complex artistic expressions. Some depict human figures, animals, and geometric shapes, while others, like the colonial scene, show the influence of later European contact. The techniques used to create them involved removing the darker surface rocks to expose the lighter soil beneath, a process that has endured for millennia.
Visiting the Pintados Geoglyphs provides an opportunity to connect with history in a profound way. The vastness of the Atacama Desert amplifies the sense of wonder, making you contemplate the lives and beliefs of the people who created these enduring artworks.
Navigating the Atacama Desert Environment
Wind can be a significant factor, particularly in the afternoons during summer. This can make drone flying challenging and viewing less comfortable. Visiting in the morning is often recommended to avoid the harshest heat and strongest winds.
Despite the harsh environment, the landscape itself is captivating. The unique soil formations and the stark beauty of the desert add to the overall experience of visiting the geoglyphs. The visitor center also offers a welcome respite with shade and facilities.
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