Colchane, Highland commune in Tamarugal Province, Chile.
Colchane is a commune located on the Andean altiplano in Tamarugal Province, sitting at an elevation of about 3,650 meters. The area consists of open highland plateaus with scattered settlements and is surrounded by mountain peaks and sparse vegetation.
The region served as a key trading route between Chile and Bolivia since pre-Columbian times, connecting different communities. These connections shaped how settlements developed and how the area remained linked to neighboring regions.
The local people speak Aymara and maintain their traditions through farming and seasonal celebrations that shape daily life throughout the year. You can see these customs reflected in how the community organizes work and gathers together.
You can reach the place by bus from Iquique, about 200 kilometers away, with several buses running daily. The high altitude can be challenging for visitors, so allow time to adjust before exploring the area.
The area faces significant economic hardship, with living conditions among the most difficult in Chile. This contrast between the stark natural beauty and daily struggles gives the place a sobering character that visitors often find thought-provoking.
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