Private Day Trip to Chiu Chiu & Pukara de Lasana

Join us for an engaging day trip to Chiu Chiu and Pukara de Lasana departing from Calama, where you'll discover the rich cultural tapestry of the villages nestled in the Alto del Loa region of the Atacama Desert. Experience the essence of Atacama firsthand!

Highlights of the Journey

Our journey commences with a pickup from your Calama hotel at the scheduled time, as we set off in a rugged vehicle designed for adventure, heading towards Chiu Chiu and Pukara de Lasana. Are you ready for an unforgettable journey?

The trip spans roughly 150 kilometers (93 miles), providing an in-depth look at the heritage and traditions of key villages in Alto del Loa, immersing you completely in the spirit of the Atacama Desert. Let the exploration begin!

Our first destination is Santa Margarita, celebrated for its marble quarries and scenic views along the Loa River. Next, we visit the intriguing Inca Coya Lagoon, a mysterious site enveloped in legends. Are you ready to uncover these captivating stories?

By 1 pm, we will reach San Francisco de Chiu Chiu, allowing you an hour to savor local dishes. After lunch, we will delve into the history of Chiu Chiu, a town that fell under Spanish rule, leading to the establishment of the settlement known as Atacama la Chica.

While in Chiu Chiu, we'll stop at the iconic San Francisco Church—the oldest church in Chile, recognized as a National Monument. Notably, this structure is distinguished by its cactus wood construction and large entrances, giving it a unique character!

At 3 pm, we will continue to Pukara de Lasana, where we’ll explore remains from the 6th century, shedding light on the earliest communities that occupied the foothills of the Atacama Desert. Gain fascinating insights into their culture centered around agriculture and pottery as we journey through this archaeological treasure.

As our enlightening day wraps up around 7 pm, we will bid farewell and take you back to your hotel.