I love anything that is out of the ordinary. So when I read today that “Chile is one of the few countries on earth that has a government-supported UFO research organization” (Journey Latin America), I thought I would compile my top picks for the adventurous traveller. Here we go!
1). El Enladrillado
This is an elevated spot so well-known for “UFO landings” that numerous books argue that its smooth volcanic slabs are too perfectly cut to be made by our mortal hands. It now forms part of San Clemente’s “UFO Trail” which opened in 2008 and takes in several sights of the Reserva Nacional Altos de Lircay, including Colburn Lake. Read more here
2). Cochiguaz
Lonely Planet describes this secluded spot in the Elqui Valley as Chile’s new-age hotspot. This is a spot that is said to be continually haunted by the extraterrestrial, as well as home to numerous powerful leylines and assorted cosmic energies. This is a great spot in nature as it is little visited unlike the rest of the Elqui Valley, and the numerous therapies on offer mean that it is an unbeatable location to unwind and relax.
3). Valle del Encanto Petroglyphs
A stroll through this secluded and quiet landscape will introduce you to numerous Chilean flora and fauna, as well as many excellently preserved pre-Colombian rock drawings, many of which depict non-human entities. There are also giant slabs filled with holes known as tacitas. The valley is located outside of Ovalle.
4). Geoglifos Chug Chug
Worth a visit if you make it to San Pedro de Atacama, these geoglyphs are believed to depict a visitor from another planet.
5). El Gigante de Atacama
Located east of Iquique, this sight is said to be the largest representation of a person in the world and is said to date back to AD900. It has an owl-like head with vertical rays reaching to the sky and bears an appearance of shock.
6). San Pedro Mummies
The world’s oldest mummies can be found in Museo Arqueológico de San Miguel de Azapa, and date to BC7200. For photos, have a look here.
7). Museo Precolombino de Arte, Santiago
Definately worth a visit to make up your own mind about whether South America’s original people were visited by extraterrestials. The museum is excellent.
