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Cueva De Las Manos Trekking

3 reviews

9 hrs

From

224.178 ARS

Embark on the Trekking to Cueva de las Manos, the perfect adventure that merges excitement, history, and archaeology.

Journey through the profound canyon of the Pinturas River to discover Patagonia's most significant archaeological treasure: La Cueva de las Manos (The Cave of the Hands).

This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases ancient cave paintings dating back 9,300 years, depicting various hunting scenes, hand stencils, animal motifs, and abstract designs.

Take part in this tour to explore the lifestyle of Patagonia's earliest inhabitants.

Tour Description

After being picked up from your hotel, we embark on our tour via Route 40, where you'll witness a diverse array of native wildlife. Following a few stops at scenic viewpoints and traversing the Caracoles Canyon, we reach the Visitors' Center and the Cueva de las Manos Interpretation Center.

Upon arrival, we'll trace the paths of our ancestors with a trek into the Pinturas River Canyon, where you'll discover caves and overhangs adorned with a remarkable collection of cave paintings, including positive and negative handprints, animals, and symbols, all exceptionally well-preserved.

A delightful lunch awaits us on our return journey.

As we head back to Los Antiguos, we'll explore Caracoles Canyon to delve into its origins and, with a bit of luck, witness a condor soaring through the sky. Our final trek takes us to the "Tierras de Colores" (Land of Colors), a photographer's paradise known for its striking natural beauty and as a source of raw materials for the region's rock art.

TREK PLUS OPTION: For avid trekkers, we offer the option to extend the adventure with an additional 5km trek to the Visitors' Center.

Cultural Information about Cueva de las Manos:The Cueva de las Manos is an archaeological site renowned for its cave paintings, situated in the depths of the Pinturas River Canyon, 88 meters high, at Estancia Cueva de las Manos. Nestled between Perito Moreno and Bajo Caracoles in the Lago Department of Buenos Aires, it lies in the Northwest region of the Province of Santa Cruz, Patagonia, Argentina. The cave measures 20 meters deep, 10 meters high, and 15 meters wide, making access challenging. Inside, along with lithic material remnants, stoves with residues, and animal bones and skins—the foundation of subsistence—have been discovered. This archaeological site is distinguished by the complexity of its rock art, offering insights into the life of past societies. Its significance is rooted in the beauty and antiquity of its cave paintings, with the oldest inscriptions dating back to 7350 B.C. Recognized as one of South America's earliest artistic endeavors, it has been designated a National Historic Monument and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

What’s included?

What’s included:

- Transfers by minibus - Professional guide-driver - Box Lunch (regional products) - Trekking poles, binoculars, maps

What’s NOT included:

- Cueva de las Manos entrance fee

Frequently Asked Questions

The trek to the Cave of Hands is of moderate difficulty, ideal for those who enjoy hiking and nature tourism. The excursion typically lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including the round trip and the time allotted for the guided tour of the archaeological site. It is recommended to be in good physical condition, wear comfortable clothing and appropriate hiking boots, and bring plenty of water. The experience offers stunning Patagonian landscapes and a direct connection to Argentina's pre-Columbian history.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation or meeting point in the region, a guide specializing in adventure and heritage tourism, entrance to Cueva de las Manos Provincial Park, and traveler's insurance. The route also includes strategic stops to appreciate the fauna, flora, and landscapes of Argentine Patagonia. Meals are not usually included, so it is recommended to bring your own food or snacks. Please check with the agency to confirm if extra equipment is provided or for any other relevant information.

Yes, to secure your spot and ensure availability, it's highly recommended to book your tour to the Cave of Hands in advance, especially during peak tourist season in Patagonia. Booking early allows you to coordinate schedules, accommodate special needs, and guarantee entry to the site. Demand is typically high among travelers interested in active tourism, hiking, and Argentine cultural heritage. Reviewing cancellation and change policies is also essential before confirming your booking with the travel agency.

The trek to the Cave of Hands is recommended for families with children over 8 years old and adults in good physical condition, as the trail has sections of moderate difficulty and requires prolonged walking. It is not recommended for babies, very young children, or people with reduced mobility. For families traveling with children, it is suggested that they consult with the tour operator beforehand to evaluate alternatives or excursions better suited to their family group and specific needs.

To fully enjoy your excursion to the Cave of Hands, it's essential to wear comfortable trekking shoes, appropriate clothing for Patagonia's variable conditions, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, plenty of water, and a packed lunch or energy snacks. It's also recommended to bring a camera to capture the rock art and landscapes, personal documents, and extra layers. Don't forget your adventurous spirit and respect for the natural and cultural environment to make your tourism experience in Argentina unforgettable.

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