Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Archaeological site · San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta
Pukará de Quitor
12th-century stone fortress on a hillside above the Rio San Pedro, 3 km from the village. It is a National Monument and has a trail to a lookout.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Pukará de Quitor
The Pukará de Quitor is a fortress built by the Atacameños in the 12th century on a steep slope beside the San Pedro River, about 3 km northwest of the village. The stone constructions, arranged in terraces up the hill, served to defend the valley's crops. It was declared a National Monument in 1982.
The fortress was later occupied and reinforced by the Incas. In 1540 the Spanish conquistadors took the pukará, in one of the notable episodes of the European arrival to the region.
A trail climbs between the stone walls to the top of the hill, where there is a viewpoint overlooking the oasis of San Pedro, the river valley and the Licancabur volcano. Along the way, signs explain the history of the site and of the lickanantay peoples.
The ascent is short but steep, and the altitude makes you short of breath.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one hour to an hour and a half, including the climb to the viewpoint.
Best time
The morning is cooler for the climb, and late afternoon brings low light over the valley. At midday the sun is strong and there is little shade.
How to get there
It is about 3 km from the center, following the street that runs along the San Pedro River to the north. You can walk, bike, or drive there in a few minutes.
Tip
Wear shoes with good grip, because the path has loose stones. Bring water and a hat. It's a good outing for the first or second day while you're still acclimatizing to the altitude.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pukará de Quitor
Can you walk to the Pukará de Quitor?
Yes. It's about 3 km from the center of San Pedro, along a flat path beside the river, before the climb to the viewpoint.
Who built the Pukará de Quitor?
The Atacameños built it in the 12th century. Later the site was occupied by the Incas and, in 1540, taken by the Spanish.
Is the climb to the Pukará de Quitor viewpoint difficult?
It's short but steep and with loose stones. Go slowly because of the altitude.