Tulor, Norte Grande Travel Guide

4.5 (387)

Unearth the mysteries of Tulor, an ancient Atacameño village in the heart of the Atacama Desert, and journey back in time.

Explore the ancient village of Tulor, one of the oldest archaeological sites in northern Chile. Wander through the interconnected circular adobe structures, remnants of a thriving community that inhabited the Atacama Desert over 2,000 years ago, and discover the ingenuity of early Atacameño culture.

A brief summary to Tulor

San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tulor.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven, sandy terrain.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense desert sun.
Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated in the arid climate.
Respect the site by not touching or removing any artifacts or stones.
Consider visiting with a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of Tulor.

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Explore Tulor on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tulor, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From San Pedro de Atacama, Tulor is approximately a 10-15 minute drive. Head southwest on Route CH-23 towards Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley). Follow the signs for Tulor. Note that the roads leading directly to the site may be sandy. Parking is available near the entrance. Car rental in Calama starts from CLP$34,000.
Bicycle

Adventurous visitors can rent a bicycle in San Pedro de Atacama and cycle to Tulor. The journey is approximately 11 km southwest of San Pedro. Be prepared for desert conditions and sandy terrain. Ensure you have plenty of water and sun protection. Bicycle rentals typically range from CLP$8,730 per day.
Organized Tour

The most common and convenient way to visit Tulor is by joining an organized tour from San Pedro de Atacama. Many local agencies offer tours that include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. These tours often combine a visit to Tulor with other nearby attractions. Tour prices vary, but expect to pay around CLP$30,000 for a half-day tour.

Discover more about Tulor

Step back in time at Tulor, an archaeological site offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Atacameño people who once thrived in this harsh desert environment. Located approximately 10 km southwest of San Pedro de Atacama, Tulor is one of the oldest settlements in the region, dating back to around 800 BCE.The village is characterized by its unique architecture: circular adobe structures interconnected by narrow passageways, creating a maze-like layout. These structures, built with local materials, served various purposes, from dwellings and storage to workshops and ceremonial spaces.As you explore the site, imagine the daily lives of the people who once called Tulor home. Archaeological discoveries reveal a society skilled in agriculture, pottery, and trade, with connections reaching as far as the Pacific coast. Shell beads and other artifacts found at the site point to a vibrant exchange of goods and ideas.While much of the original village has been lost to time and the elements, ongoing conservation efforts are helping to preserve what remains of this important cultural landmark. A visit to Tulor offers a profound connection to the past and a deeper understanding of the human story in the Atacama Desert.