Quebrada de Chacarilla, Natural reserve and watercourse in Pica, Chile
Quebrada de Chacarilla is a protected canyon in the Tarapacá region with steep rock walls that preserve ancient traces from prehistoric times. The stone formations along its course display impressions that scientists have linked to several dinosaur species.
This area existed from 150 to 100 million years ago as forests and wetlands before transforming into the desert landscape seen today. The location received protective status in 2004 to preserve its geological evidence.
The site received Natural Sanctuary status in 2004, protecting 16,069.7 hectares of land containing evidence of ancient dinosaur social behaviors and movement patterns.
The location has a visitor center with information and educational models on display for guests. Access is best made from the roads around Pica, so visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and sunny conditions.
The rock walls display footprints from four different dinosaur groups, ranging from carnivores to herbivores. This variety offers a rare glimpse into how different species shared a single environment.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
