Ancient Indigenous art in Chile faces irreversible damage from mass tourism

The ancient Indigenous art, known as the geoglyphs of Chile’s Atacama Desert, dating back over 1,000 years, has been significantly damaged by off-road tourism activities involving vehicles such as 4×4 trucks, quadbikes, and motorcycles.

These geoglyphs, found in the Alto Barranco area of the Tarapaca region, were created by Indigenous peoples between 900 and 1450 C.E. They have remained well-preserved due to the arid conditions of the desert, but recent vehicle activity has left permanent scars on the landscape.

The Atacama Desert Foundation reports that vehicle tracks have cut across many of the geoglyphs in recent years, despite warning signs posted in the area.

Since 2021, this has been formally reported to the Prosecutor’s Office, as part of the work that we do at the Regional Museum. It must be understood that damage to national monuments is not a misdemeanor, it is a crime. In this case, it is very serious because it is irreversible damage… it cannot be restored.

Luis Perez, an archaeologist and director of the Regional Museum of Iquique, told Chilean media outlet Expreso Bio Bio.

Archaeologists and conservationists have expressed concern over the lack of effective measures to safeguard these cultural treasures from further harm.

Rally organizers deny causing damage to ancient geoglyphs of Chile

The Atacama Desert is home to several large motorsports events, including the Atacama Rally. While organizers have denied any involvement in the destruction, they claim that participants followed GPS-monitored routes approved by local authorities. “Our participants remained on the designated paths,” they asserted.

However, authorities have attributed much of the damage to off-road vehicles used in unofficial races and tours that take place in the desert without proper regulation. Many of these vehicles operate without license plates, making it difficult for authorities to hold drivers accountable. Additionally, the area is frequented by heavy trucks from nearby mining operations, further worsening the situation.

Cultural loss as indigenous art, geoglyphs of Chile face growing threats

Archaeologist Luis Perez emphasized the urgency of protecting these sites, stating, “Since 2021, we have formally reported this issue to the Prosecutor’s Office. This is not a minor offense; it is a serious crime that causes irreversible damage.”

He added that the geoglyphs are not just artworks, they also function as navigational tools for Indigenous peoples, guiding them through the harsh desert terrain. These ancient symbols, which include depictions of humans and animals, are now at risk of being lost forever due to modern interference.

The ongoing destruction has raised alarm among archaeologists, who have called for stronger protective measures.