Introduction

Despite the relatively high number of archaeological sites with petroglyphs in the north of Chile, very few of these can offer the chance to see these ancient rock carvings in an area which is protected. Thanks to an initiative started by the Municipality of Ovalle, there is a project in the Valle del Encanto which aims to conserve and protect these artistic relics and to allow the public to see them close up. Recently this valley was only considered to be a place to have picnics or asados, but the Municipality of Ovalle has managed to clear to rubbish, and have installed markers to help visitors to easily visit the archaeological artefacts.

The valley Valle del Encanto is located just 19km from Ovalle. Here a great number of petroglyphs, cave paintings, “piedras tacitas” (rocks in which there are holes the size of teacups, thought to be used to store and grind foods) and stone mortars. The petroglyphs can be found on the surface of large rocks and are mainly carvings of moving human figures. The cave paintings are made up of reddish geometric shapes, and are much rarer than the petroglyphs. At first glance they do not appear to be very interesting, but if you look closer and consider the age of these paintings, you will be able to appreciate their significance.

Studies have shown that this valley, which has water all year round, has been inhabited for 4000 years. The petroglyphs and cave paintings are from the El Molle people who lived from 2000 AD to 7000 AD.

Appropriate season

All year around.

Access

The closest town to the Valle del Encanto is Ovalle. See here how to get to Ovalle.

From Ovalle, head west along the highway leading to the Termas de Socos and Carretera Panamericana, or Ruta 5 Norte. 19km from Ovalle, you will reach a turning to the left (south) signposted as Valle del Encanto. From the turning, continue for another 5km along a well-maintained dirt road until you reach the entrance to the Valle del Encanto where you will need to register and pay the entrance fee.

If you are coming from the south (Santiago) or from the north (La Serena), the turning to the valley is 15km from the Ruta 5 Norte, along with the Termas de Socos.

There is no way of reaching the park via public transport.

Permits / Prices

The entry fees to the reserve are as follows: adults CLP$500 (approx. US$1), children between 5 and 15 years old CLP$300 (approx. US$0.50). Parking at the reserve costs CLP$500 (approx. USD$1) per car.

Accommodation / Facilities

None. Until recently there was an area for picnics and asados nearby but this has been removed in order to better preserve the valuable heritage in the area.

Recommendations

• Look out for fauna. Normally you can see degus running around.
• Under no circumstances should you touch the petroglyphs or cave paintings.
• There is no access to drinking water along the route, so make sure you take enough with you.

Gear

• Comfortable and light trainers.
• Sun protection

Schedule

1. Ovalle - Valle del Encanto - Ovalle