Two hours north of Chos Malal and 17km south of Varvarco, the impressive Parque Arqueológico Colomichicó has over 600 examples of Pehuenche rock art – one of the most important collections in Patagonia. The mysterious carvings can be seen during a three-hour trek with a local guide between January and April each year.
Search for Stories in the Rocks
In addition to the petroglyphs, which range from anthropomorphic figures to lines resembling maps, there’s also a blast site of dynamite from a Hungarian minor, Bela Veiko, who went mad searching for the Incan treasure said to have been buried in the hills. The petroglyphs and the blast site are concentrated in a 1km loop at the top of the park in the middle of the trek.
See Transhumance Structures
Trashumancia (transhumance) is a seasonal migration of livestock still practiced by Patagonian farmers today. As you hike to the petroglyphs, you’ll see structures created for these practices: canals, improvised goat nurseries and livestock pens. However, the only animals you’ll likely see will be condors circling above the valley.
Get a Guide Early
At the time of writing, only six guides were certified to enter the park. The park cannot be entered without a guide. While you can request information via the tourist office, it’s more expedient to contact guides directly, and at least four weeks in advance of when you want to go to organize a tour. Alejandra Parada leads Spanish-only tours and can be contacted via WhatsApp (+54-9294-258-9751).