Exploring the ancient ruins of Tulor village and Pukara de Quitor in Chile’s Atacama Desert promises an immersive archaeological experience. Visitors can uncover the well-preserved circular adobe structures of Tulor and ascend the fortified walls of Pukara de Quitor, revealing panoramic vistas. This guided tour combines history, culture, and adventure, making it a compelling addition to any Atacama itinerary. For those seeking to explore the region’s captivating past, this experience offers a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of these remarkable archaeological sites.
About Your Stay
- The tour provides an opportunity to explore ancient pre-Columbian sites, including the Tulor village and Pukara de Quitor fortress, in the Atacama region of northern Chile.
- Visitors can experience the well-preserved ruins of the Tulor village, which date back to the 1st century AD, and learn about the daily life and construction techniques of its inhabitants.
- The tour includes a visit to the Pukara de Quitor, an ancient fortified settlement that offers panoramic views and involves a moderate climb to reach the highest observation point.
- The tour is suitable for participants aged 8-75 in good health, with a notable climb to the highest observation point during the Pukara de Quitor visit.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, but excludes meals, drinks, gratuities, and entrance fees.
Tour Overview
The Archaeological Experience in Atacama tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and ancient sites of the Atacama region in northern Chile.
The private tour takes guests to Tulor village and the Pukara de Quitor fortress, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. Located in San Pedro de Atacama, the tour costs from $176.78 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entry to the sites are included, though meals, gratuities, and extras are excluded.
The tour is recommended for ages 8-75 in good health, with a notable climb to the highest observation point.
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Destination: San Pedro De Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama, a picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of the Atacama Desert, serves as the starting point for the Archaeological Experience in Atacama tour.
This remote town is renowned for its proximity to ancient ruins and stunning natural landscapes. Guests will be picked up from their centrally located hotels before embarking on this private excursion.
The tour’s meeting point is in downtown San Pedro, where you will be dropped off at the end of the day.
With its arid climate and rich cultural heritage, San Pedro de Atacama provides the perfect backdrop for this archaeological adventure.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Though the Archaeological Experience in Atacama tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional guide, it excludes meals, drinks, gratuities, and the entrance fee.
Participants will need to cover the cost of their own food and beverages, as well as any additional expenses not specifically detailed in the tour itinerary.
The tour provider recommends that guests dress comfortably, apply sunscreen, and bring their own water.
While the experience provides a comprehensive exploration of the Atacama region’s rich history, certain extras aren’t covered in the tour price.
Pickup and Meeting Details
As the tour begins, the provider arranges pickup from selected centrally located hotels in San Pedro de Atacama. Alternatively, if your hotel is outside the pickup area, a meeting point is provided. The tour then departs at 8:00 am. At the end of the day, you’ll be dropped off in the downtown municipal parking.
| Pickup Details | |
|—————-|—|
| Pickup Locations | Selected centrally located hotels |
| Meeting Point | Provided if hotel is outside pickup area |
| Departure Time | 8:00 am |
| Drop-off Details | |
|——————|—|
| Drop-off Location | Downtown municipal parking |
Participant Requirements and Recommendations
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Age restrictions limit participants to those between 8 and 75 years old who are in good health.
Visitors should wear comfortable clothes, apply sunscreen, and carry mineral water.
The tour involves a long climb to the highest observation site of Pukara de Quitor, so participants should be prepared for this physical challenge.
These requirements and recommendations ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors during the archaeological experience in Atacama Tulor and Quitor.
Exploring Tulor Village
After tackling the physical demands of accessing the Pukara de Quitor fortress, the tour now shifts focus to the intriguing Tulor village.
This pre-Columbian settlement dates back to the 1st century AD, offering a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Atacama people. Visitors explore the well-preserved ruins, marveling at the circular adobe structures that were once homes.
The guide shares insights into the village’s layout, construction techniques, and the daily routines of its inhabitants. This archaeological site provides a tangible connection to the rich cultural heritage of the Atacama region.
Discovering Pukara De Quitor
Next, the tour ventures to the impressive Pukara de Quitor, an ancient fortified settlement that stands as a testament to the defensive might of the Atacama people. Perched atop a hill, this archaeological site offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors must climb a long, winding path to reach the highest observation point, presenting a moderate challenge but rewarding those who make the effort. The tour explores the site’s well-preserved ruins, including remnants of houses, plazas, and defensive walls, providing a glimpse into the lives of the region’s pre-Columbian inhabitants.
| Pukara de Quitor | | |
| — | — | — |
| Location | Elevation | Age |
| San Pedro de Atacama | 2,500 meters | 700-1450 AD |
Positive Traveler Reviews
Travelers have praised the Archaeological Experience in Atacama for its knowledgeable and supportive guides.
With a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, the tour earns high marks from visitors. Participants highlight the guides’ expertise in the rich pre-Colombian history of the Atacama people, enhancing the experience of exploring the Tulor village and Pukara de Quitor fortress.
Despite the challenging climb to the highest observation site of Pukara de Quitor, the tour provides an immersive archaeological adventure that leaves a lasting impression on travelers.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Book a Private Tour for Just My Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private experience for just your group. The tour is priced per person, and the group size can vary, but it’s a private experience without other participants.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This means you can cancel your booking without penalty if you need to do so within that timeframe.
Can I Have a Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Option?
While the tour doesn’t include meals, the guide can likely accommodate vegetarian or vegan dietary requests if notified in advance. Travellers should contact the tour provider to inquire about special meal options prior to the tour.
Is There an Option for a Longer or More Extensive Tour?
Yes, there’s an option for a longer or more extensive tour. The tour provider offers several itineraries that explore more archaeological sites and cultural experiences in the Atacama region. Speak to the tour coordinator to customize your experience.
How Physically Demanding Is the Climb to the Observation Site?
The climb to the observation site is quite challenging, involving a long and steep ascent that may be difficult for some travellers. However, the guide is attentive and can provide support to those who need it.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The Archaeological Experience in Atacama tour offers a captivating exploration of Tulor village and Pukara de Quitor. Visitors can discover the well-preserved ruins and stunning vistas, seeing the region’s rich history and culture. With positive reviews from travelers, this guided tour is a must-do experience for those visiting the breathtaking Atacama Desert.
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