Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs - Image 1
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Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs

4.6
·325 reviews·San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Discover ancient rock carvings and charming wildlife at Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, a historical gem near San Pedro de Atacama.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

CrowdLow
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Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs - Image 1

Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover ancient rock carvings and charming wildlife at Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, a historical gem near San Pedro de Atacama.

4.6
(325 reviews)

"A very interesting place that I would definitely recommend, with lots of petroglyphs and friendly staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

Cash Only Entry

Be prepared to pay the entrance fee in cash (CLP). ATMs are not available on-site. :moneybag:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The trails involve walking and some stone steps, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Rock Carvings

Ancient Rock Carvings

Main Carving Area

Discover thousands of intricate petroglyphs etched into volcanic rock, depicting animals and ancient symbols.

Wandering Alpacas

Wandering Alpacas

Throughout the site

Enjoy the charming presence of alpacas and other local wildlife grazing peacefully among the petroglyphs.

Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Various paths

Explore well-maintained trails with stone steps, offering easy access to different sections of the petroglyph site.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Yerbas Buenas

Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history with well-marked trails and diverse rock carvings. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Cash is required for the entrance fee, so be prepared.

Navigating Yerbas Buenas

The site is generally well-signed, but a map can be helpful. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, like alpacas and foxes, that often roam the area.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cash Only Entry

Be prepared to pay the entrance fee in cash (CLP). ATMs are not available on-site. :moneybag:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The trails involve walking and some stone steps, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Combine with Rainbow Valley

This site is a great addition to a visit to nearby Rainbow Valley for a full day of exploration. :world_map:

Wildlife Encounters

Keep an eye out for alpacas, foxes, and flamingos roaming freely around the site. :llama:

Tips

from all over the internet

Cash Only Entry

Be prepared to pay the entrance fee in cash (CLP). ATMs are not available on-site. :moneybag:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The trails involve walking and some stone steps, so sturdy footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Combine with Rainbow Valley

This site is a great addition to a visit to nearby Rainbow Valley for a full day of exploration. :world_map:

Wildlife Encounters

Keep an eye out for alpacas, foxes, and flamingos roaming freely around the site. :llama:

Check Google Maps Accuracy

The Google Maps location might be slightly off; follow signs once you're in the vicinity. :round_pushpin:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(325 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs for its well-marked trails, fascinating rock carvings, and the friendly, informative staff. The presence of alpacas and other wildlife adds a unique charm. While some minor markings exist, the main areas are well-preserved and offer a great historical experience for a modest entrance fee.

"Great! The route is well marked and there is a variety of carvings to see. The person at the entrance explains its history very well and was extremely friendly. It was a very interesting place that I would definitely recommend.

Yes there are some drawings made by not so intelligent visitors, but the main area doesn’t have any. That is the most interesting and the biggest part anyway."

Zewitshe 360

"Lot of lama’s. But also some foxes, chayotes and flamingo’s. 5.000 entrance fee, 2.000 for students. Not busy at all!"

K. vD.

"This site is well worth a stop and you can see a lot for the $5pp entry fee. The first area right after the gate is incredible. Lots of petroglyphs just in this one spot and it’s a fun walk with stone steps. There’s no explanation of the site on the right but it’s still kind of interesting. The last location at the end of the road is also worth the walk. There are bathrooms at the gate house."

LS Sheldon

What People Like

Fascinating petroglyphs
Friendly staff
Wandering alpacas

What People Dislike

Cash-only payment
Occasional minor vandalism

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs is located near San Pedro de Atacama. Many visitors combine it with a trip to Rainbow Valley. While Google Maps can guide you, be aware that the pinpointed location might be slightly inaccurate, so follow local signage once you're in the area. Reddit

The site is generally well-marked once you are close, especially if you are heading towards Rainbow Valley. Local tour operators will know the exact route. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to Yerbas Buenas. The roads are generally accessible, and there is a designated entrance area where you can pay the fee. Reddit

Many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama offer excursions that include Yerbas Buenas, often combined with other nearby attractions like Rainbow Valley. Reddit

Renting a car or joining a guided tour are the most common ways to travel between San Pedro de Atacama and Yerbas Buenas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically 5,000 CLP per person, with a reduced rate of 2,000 CLP for students. Payment is usually required in cash. Reddit+1

No, advance booking is generally not required. You can pay the entrance fee in cash upon arrival at the site. Reddit

The site is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check with local tour operators or information centers in San Pedro de Atacama for the most current hours. Reddit

While not always mandatory, there is often a friendly attendant at the entrance who can explain the history of the site. Reddit

No, payment for the entrance fee is typically cash-only (CLP). It's advisable to have the exact change or small bills. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of petroglyphs etched into volcanic rocks, depicting animals, symbols, and ancient figures. The main area is particularly rich in carvings. Reddit+1

The main areas of the site are generally well-preserved, with minimal vandalism. Some minor markings by less considerate visitors may exist, but they don't detract significantly from the main attraction. Reddit

Yes, the site has well-marked trails with stone steps, making it suitable for walking and exploring the petroglyphs. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Reddit

Visitors often spot alpacas, foxes, and flamingos roaming freely within the petroglyph site. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms available at the gatehouse or entrance area of the site. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the textures of the petroglyphs and the surrounding landscape. Mornings can also be good with softer light. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the site and avoid using flash directly on the carvings if it could cause damage. Reddit

You can capture close-ups of the intricate petroglyphs, wide shots of the landscape with the carvings, and candid shots of the wildlife like alpacas. Reddit

Yes, the petroglyphs are quite distinct and offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially when the light highlights their etched surfaces. Reddit

Consider using a tripod for low-light conditions or for sharper images. Experiment with aperture settings to control depth of field, especially when photographing wildlife. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs offers a unique educational experience for families. The well-marked trails and the presence of alpacas and other local wildlife can keep children engaged and excited. Reddit The relatively short walking distances and the fascinating rock carvings provide a good introduction to ancient history and art. Remember to bring cash for the entrance fee and comfortable shoes for everyone. Reddit The friendly staff at the entrance can also make the visit more interactive for younger visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

For solo travelers and those on a budget, Yerbas Buenas is an excellent choice. The low entrance fee (around 5,000 CLP) makes it an affordable excursion. Reddit+1 You can easily explore the site independently using the marked trails, and the opportunity to see wildlife adds to the experience without extra cost. Reddit Consider joining a small group tour if you prefer company or want to combine it with other nearby attractions like Rainbow Valley, which can be cost-effective. Reddit Carrying cash is essential for entry. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Yerbas Buenas a rewarding location. The intricate petroglyphs offer fantastic opportunities for close-up shots, while the surrounding desert landscape provides a dramatic backdrop. Reddit The wandering alpacas also present excellent subjects for wildlife photography. Reddit Visiting in the late afternoon can yield beautiful golden hour light that accentuates the textures of the rock carvings. Reddit Remember to bring your camera and perhaps a tripod for optimal shots, especially if you plan to stay until dusk.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ancient Art of Yerbas Buenas

The Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs are a significant archaeological site, showcasing a rich collection of ancient rock carvings. These petroglyphs, etched into the volcanic rock by indigenous peoples centuries ago, offer a unique window into their beliefs, daily lives, and the surrounding environment. The carvings depict a variety of subjects, including animals like llamas, foxes, and flamingos, as well as geometric patterns and human-like figures. The main area of the site is particularly impressive, with a high concentration of well-preserved carvings that have captivated visitors for years. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the clarity and variety of the etchings. The site is designed with walking trails, some featuring stone steps, making it accessible for exploration. The person at the entrance is often noted for being friendly and informative, providing valuable context about the history and significance of the petroglyphs. Reddit While some minor markings by less considerate visitors might be present, the core of the site remains remarkably intact and awe-inspiring. Reddit

Beyond the petroglyphs themselves, the natural beauty of the area adds to the experience. The presence of local wildlife, such as alpacas and foxes, grazing peacefully among the ancient art, creates a unique and memorable atmosphere. Reddit This blend of history, art, and nature makes Yerbas Buenas a truly special destination for those interested in archaeology and the cultural heritage of the Atacama region.

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips

When planning your trip to the Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, it's essential to be prepared for the practical aspects. The entrance fee is typically 5,000 CLP per person, with a student discount available for 2,000 CLP. Crucially, payment is usually cash-only, so ensure you have enough Chilean Pesos on hand, as ATMs are not available at the site. Reddit+1 The site is generally open during daylight hours, but it's wise to confirm the exact timings with local information sources in San Pedro de Atacama. Reddit

Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be walking along marked trails that include some stone steps. Reddit Many visitors find it beneficial to combine a visit to Yerbas Buenas with the nearby Rainbow Valley, as they are often offered as a package tour or are easily accessible from each other. Reddit While Google Maps can provide directions, some travelers have noted that the exact location pinpointed on the map might be slightly off, so paying attention to local signage is recommended. Reddit

The experience at Yerbas Buenas is often enhanced by the presence of friendly staff who can share insights into the site's history. Reddit Additionally, the opportunity to see local wildlife, such as alpacas and foxes, adds a charming element to the visit. Reddit Planning for these details will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable exploration of this fascinating historical site.

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