Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino
Discover 10,000+ years of American history through stunning pre-Columbian art and artifacts in a beautiful historic building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 10,000+ years of American history through stunning pre-Columbian art and artifacts in a beautiful historic building.
"Absolutely one of the best museums in Santiago, where you can truly feel the essence of Chile’s native peoples."
🎒 Bring Change for Lockers
Lockers are available for backpacks, but you'll need coins. Plan ahead to keep your hands free for exploring!
👓 Reading Glasses Recommended
Some exhibit labels have small print. Bring your glasses if you have trouble reading small text.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chinchorro Mummies
Basement exhibits
Discover the world's oldest mummies, offering a profound glimpse into ancient funerary practices.
Mapuche Culture
Various galleries
Experience the rich heritage of the Mapuche people through their intricate art and artifacts.
Chemamülles Sculptures
Main galleries
Admire these striking wooden sculptures, significant cultural symbols from ancient Chilean peoples.
Maya and Inca Civilizations
Andean cultures section
Explore the artistry and ingenuity of the Maya and Inca, showcasing their advanced civilizations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Sufficient Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Bring Change for Lockers
Lockers are available for backpacks, but you'll need coins. Plan ahead to keep your hands free for exploring!
👓 Reading Glasses Recommended
Some exhibit labels have small print. Bring your glasses if you have trouble reading small text.
💡 Basement Lighting
The basement exhibits can be quite dark. Be prepared for lower light conditions when viewing artifacts.
📚 Museum Shop Books
Don't miss the museum shop for insightful books, like those on Chilean history, to deepen your understanding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Bring Change for Lockers
Lockers are available for backpacks, but you'll need coins. Plan ahead to keep your hands free for exploring!
👓 Reading Glasses Recommended
Some exhibit labels have small print. Bring your glasses if you have trouble reading small text.
💡 Basement Lighting
The basement exhibits can be quite dark. Be prepared for lower light conditions when viewing artifacts.
📚 Museum Shop Books
Don't miss the museum shop for insightful books, like those on Chilean history, to deepen your understanding.
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible near Plaza de Armas metro station, making it a convenient stop on your Santiago itinerary. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino for its beautiful and comprehensive collection, offering a deep dive into pre-Columbian history. The thoughtful curation and English descriptions are highly appreciated, making it accessible for international travelers. While some find the entrance fee a bit high and lighting in certain areas could be improved, the overall experience is considered a rare opportunity to see ancient and priceless artworks.
"What an absolutely beautiful museum with an intense and comprehensive collection on display. The curators have been very thoughtful in preparing the collection and it is complemented perfectly for tourists with all descriptions in English. I loved it so much, I had to buy a book on 14,000 years of Chilean history to take home with me"
David Maddison
"Fantastic museum. Not too big. Has explanations in English. Start in basement. Need to pay to put backpack in locker so have change. Bring your reading glasses if you have trouble reading small print. The basement exhibit is pretty dark!"
Kate S
"Definitely one of the best museums in Santiago. Here, you can truly feel the essence of Chile’s native peoples, especially the Mapuche. The collection includes very ancient and priceless artworks, all incredibly original. The exhibits are well divided and organized. On top of that, you can also see the impressive Chemamülles sculptures up close. Absolutely worth a visit!
Some people might not give it five stars simply because they’re not enthusiasts of this kind of art. But for those who love culture, anthropology, or prehistoric art, it’s a rare opportunity to see works that date back as far as 2,000 years before Christ."
Regina Morais
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located at Bandera 361, just a block from the Plaza de Armas metro station (Lines 3 and 5).
While there isn't dedicated parking for the museum, there are several public parking lots in the vicinity of Plaza de Armas. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to traffic and parking challenges in the city center.
Absolutely! The museum is within walking distance of many key Santiago landmarks, including Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Central Market. It's a great way to explore the historic center on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, with one review mentioning CP12000 for an adult. It's best to check the official museum website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts for students or seniors.
While not always strictly required, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to avoid queues. Check the museum's official website for booking options.
The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Information on child admission fees is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. It's advisable to consult the museum's official website or contact them directly for specific details regarding admission for younger visitors.
The provided information does not mention the acceptance of museum passes. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for details on any reciprocal agreements or pass programs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the ancient Chinchorro mummies, the rich displays of Mapuche culture, the striking Chemamülles sculptures, and the fascinating artifacts from Maya and Inca civilizations.
Yes, the museum thoughtfully provides descriptions in English, making it accessible and informative for international visitors.
While the content is historical and anthropological, the visual nature of the exhibits can be engaging for older children. The museum also hosts educational programs and workshops.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask museum staff for clarification.
The provided information does not mention a cafe or restaurant within the museum. However, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding downtown area of Santiago.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always wise to look for specific signs or ask museum staff for the most current photography guidelines to ensure you comply with their policies.
The museum's architecture itself is quite beautiful, especially the historic building. For exhibits, the vibrant textiles, intricate pottery, and the imposing Chemamülles sculptures offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Tripods are typically not allowed in museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and to protect the exhibits. It's best to rely on handheld shots or inquire with the museum if special permission is needed for professional shoots.
While general rules apply, some highly sensitive or valuable artifacts might have specific restrictions. Always be mindful of signage and respect the museum's directives regarding photography of particular items.
Given that some areas, particularly the basement, can be dimly lit, consider using a camera with good low-light performance or a wider aperture lens. Increasing your ISO slightly might be necessary, but be mindful of potential noise. Using a monopod, if permitted, could also help stabilize shots in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To ensure a smooth visit, consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings. Bringing snacks and drinks might be necessary as there isn't a cafe on-site, and keeping little ones entertained during potentially darker or text-heavy exhibits can be managed with prior discussion about what they'll see. The central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in downtown Santiago.
📚 Culture Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the information, perhaps investing in a detailed book from the museum shop to further enrich your understanding. The well-curated exhibits and English descriptions ensure a rewarding and informative experience, allowing you to delve deep into the rich tapestry of pre-Columbian South America. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting this heritage is evident throughout the visit.
🚶 Day-Trippers in Santiago
+1Allocate about 2-3 hours for a thorough visit. You'll gain a significant appreciation for the region's ancient history and diverse cultures without consuming your entire day. The English descriptions make it easy to navigate and understand the exhibits quickly, ensuring a fulfilling cultural experience even on a tight schedule.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Museum's Collection
Key highlights include the Chinchorro mummies, recognized as the oldest artificial mummies in the world, providing an unparalleled look into ancient burial rituals. The museum also dedicates significant space to the Mapuche people, showcasing their unique art, tools, and spiritual artifacts, offering deep insights into their enduring culture. Other notable collections feature the artistry of the Maya, Inca, and various Andean cultures, demonstrating their advanced societal structures and artistic expressions.
Beyond specific cultures, the museum's strength lies in its ability to connect these diverse peoples through shared themes of cosmology, daily life, and artistic expression. The thoughtful arrangement of exhibits allows visitors to trace the evolution of human societies in the region, making it an educational and inspiring experience for all. The building itself, a historic 1805 structure, adds another layer of historical context to the visit.
Navigating the Museum: Tips for a Smooth Visit
+1 Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Upon arrival, you'll find lockers available for storing backpacks, but remember to bring coins as payment is required.
Don't forget to explore the museum's shop, which offers a selection of books and souvenirs that can deepen your understanding of pre-Columbian art and history. It's a fantastic place to find a memento or a detailed guide to take home.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit