Excursion Shaman, deserts & village on the river tour at Arica

Experience the unique landscapes of this region and unique Codpa Village during this full-day tour. The Atacama Desert in Northern Chile is home to the world's most arid desert and its salt flats, hot springs and geysers as well as large deposits of copper and other minerals and mines in Chuquicamata, Calama and other parts of the altiplano. Codpa village is a surprisingly green oasis located in a deep canyon at an altitude of 1,850 metres (1.15 miles) above sea level. Benefitting from Chile's best climate, the village is renowned for its church, fruit culture, stone engravings and its "artisanal" wine called Pintatani.

Atacama Desert and Presencias Tutelares Sculptures

En route pass through the Atacama Desert, one of the world's driest deserts. The first stop is a photo opportunity to marvel and record the Presencias Tutelares Sculptures, giant sculptures created by Chilean sculptor Juan Díaz Fleming. Continue driving towards an area filled of cactus, where a stop will be made to take pictures, situated in the foreground of the Cordillera de Los Andes. After some minutes, proceed to Codpa Village.

Codpa Village

During the pre-Hispanic period, Codpa Village was the seat of the cacique of Altos de Arica, who governed the tribes of the region. The town is located on the headwaters of the River Vitor, which ensures a supply of extremely pure water, made more precious by being found in this extremely dry part of the planet. The land is very fertile, producing different kinds of fruits and the grapes from which the traditional Pintatani wine is produced.

Codpa Walking Tour and Shaman Ceremony

Upon arrival at Codpa Village, take a guided walking tour to admire the architecture. Next, attend to a ceremony performed by a medicine man or shaman, who blessed the mother-earth with coca-leaf while enjoy a drink of typical Pintatani wine.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, afterwards some free time will be made available before returning to the coach for the 1.5 hour drive back to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Atacama Desert, Presencias Tutelares Sculptures, Cordillera de Los Andes, River Vitor, Codpa Village, Shaman Ceremony.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre) over dirt and uneven surfaces, with steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. The drive time to/from Codpa Village is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Due to average local temperatures, coaches are not equipped with air-conditioning.