Pukará of Quitor | Atacama

Pukará de Quitor is an archaeological site located near San Pedro de Atacama in the Atacama Desert of Chile. It’s an ancient fortification built by the indigenous people of the area, known as the Quechua people, around the 12th century.

Location:

• It is located about 3 kilometers north of San Pedro de Atacama, in the province of El Loa, Antofagasta Region, Chile.
• San Pedro de Atacama is a well-known tourist destination and the Pukará de Quitor is one of the important historical sites nearby.

Altitude:

• The Pukará de Quitor is located at an altitude of approximately 2,485 meters above sea level.

History

1. Pre-Columbian Construction: Pukará de Quitor was built around the 12th century by the indigenous Quechua or Atacameño people in the Atacama Desert region of Chile.
2. Defensive and Observation Function: It served as a defensive fortress and strategic observation point to monitor movements in the San Pedro River valley and the surrounding desert.
3. Architecture and Structures: The site consists of stone structures, walls, and a fortified central area, showcasing the architectural and engineering skills of its indigenous builders.
4. Colonial Era: During the Spanish colonization in the 16th century, Pukará de Quitor played a role in indigenous conflicts and resistance against colonial forces.
5. National Monument: It has been declared a National Monument of Chile due to its cultural and historical significance as a testament to pre-Columbian life and indigenous resistance.
6. Tourism: Today, Pukará de Quitor is a popular tourist destination in San Pedro de Atacama, attracting visitors interested in exploring its history, architecture, and enjoying panoramic views of the Atacama Desert.

These points outline the key aspects of Pukará de Quitor’s history and its importance in the Atacama region.

What can be done in the pukara of Quitor?

Here’s what you can do at Pukará de Quitor:

1. Archaeological Visit: Explore the ancient ruins and structures of Pukará de Quitor, including walls, terraces, and a central fortress, while learning about the history and culture of the indigenous peoples who built it.
2. Hiking and Trekking: Enjoy hikes along the trails leading to Pukará de Quitor, with impressive views of the desert landscape and surrounding rock formations.
3. Panoramic Viewing: From the top of Pukará, experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Atacama Desert and the San Pedro River valley, perfect for photography and contemplation.
4. Cultural Activities: Guided tours often provide detailed explanations about the site’s history and the indigenous culture that inhabited it, offering deeper insights into its archaeological and historical significance.
5. Cultural Experience: Occasionally, visitors may encounter local cultural activities at Pukará de Quitor, such as traditional music or dance, providing a more intimate connection with the living culture of the region.
6. Tourism and Education: As a National Monument of Chile, Pukará de Quitor also serves as an important educational resource to understand pre-Columbian history and indigenous resistance in the Atacama region.

How to get to pukara de Quitor?

To get to Pukará de Quitor from San Pedro de Atacama, you can follow these instructions:

1. Transportation: The most common way to reach Pukará de Quitor is by private vehicle or organized tour. San Pedro de Atacama is a small town with several tour agencies that offer excursions to Pukará de Quitor.
2. Distance: Pukará de Quitor is located approximately 3 kilometers north of San Pedro de Atacama.
3. Route: From the center of San Pedro de Atacama, take the road leading towards Calama (Route CH-23). After about 2 kilometers, you will see a right turn indicating the entrance to Pukará de Quitor.
4. Entrance to the Site: Upon reaching the turnoff, follow the dirt road that leads directly to the parking area of Pukará de Quitor. From there, it’s a short walk to the main entrance of the archaeological site.
5. Organized Tour: If you prefer a guided and comfortable option, many tour agencies in San Pedro de Atacama offer tours to Pukará de Quitor that include transportation to and from the site, as well as guides who explain the history and culture of the area.

Recommendations to visit the pukara of Quitor