Valle del Encanto Petroglyphs Circuit
5,000 ancient petroglyphs in desert valleys
This backcountry route accesses one of Chile’s most significant pre-Columbian archaeological sites through the drought-stricken valleys of the Norte Chico region. The track follows ancient trade routes past over 5,000 petroglyphs carved by the Molle and Diaguita peoples between 100-1500 AD. Key waypoints include the Quebrada de las Chilcas where massive granite boulders display intricate spiral designs and animal figures, and the remote Cerro Blanco mining camp ruins from the 1920s nitrate boom.
Easy to moderate difficulty suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles, though sandy washes and loose rock require careful tire placement. Best visited May through September when temperatures are manageable and flash flood risk is minimal. Bring abundant water and sun protection as shade is nonexistent. The archaeological significance makes this a bucket-list destination for overlanders interested in pre-Columbian culture, with primitive camping allowed in designated areas away from rock art sites.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 23 mi / 37 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2297 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Ovalle, Coquimbo |
| Land manager | Consejo de Monumentos Nacionales |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or 2WD SUV handle this trail, or do I need 4WD?
High-clearance 2WD is the minimum requirement and will handle the dirt surface fine under normal dry conditions. 4WD isn't necessary unless the trail has seen recent rain, which can turn the desert clay slick fast.
When is this trail accessible and what does the rainy season do to it?
Best window is May through September — the Chilean winter here is mild and keeps the dust down without turning the track to mud. Summer (December–February) brings heat above 35°C and occasional flash-flood risk in the valleys, so avoid it if you can.
Do I need a permit to drive through and access the petroglyphs?
Valle del Encanto is managed by the Consejo de Monumentos Nacionales and charges a small entrance fee at the site — expect a few thousand Chilean pesos per person. No advance permit required, but the site has opening hours, so check current schedules before driving out there.
What's the hardest section of this trail and what does it actually demand from me?
This is rated easy — the toughest thing you'll deal with is loose dirt and washboard on the access road segments, not technical obstacles. The 1,148 ft of elevation gain is spread over 23 miles, so nothing steep or exposed.
How far is it from Ovalle, and should I top up gas and water before I go?
Ovalle is your last reliable stop — fuel up there and carry at least 10–15 liters of drinking water per person since there's no water source on the circuit. The nearest town is roughly 30 km from the trailhead, cell service is spotty throughout, and dispersed camping is possible if you want to stay the night near the site.
Trail track
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