R. P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum
Museo Arqueológico R. P. Gustavo Le Paige
An archaeology museum founded by the Belgian priest Gustavo Le Paige, presenting thousands of years of Atacama Indigenous history and excavated artifacts.
The museum was founded in the 1950s by Gustavo Le Paige, a Belgian Jesuit priest, and is now run by the Universidad Católica del Norte. Its collection holds hundreds of thousands of items excavated from the Atacama region, including pottery, textiles, gold objects, and tools for inhaling hallucinogens. The exhibits trace the transformation of the Likanantai people from hunting and gathering to the Tiwanaku and Inca periods. The new building is north of the town. Opening hours and ticket prices are as published on the official website. It suits a half-day visit between high-altitude excursions and helps you understand the surrounding sites.
Opening hours
Usually closed Mondays; check official website for hours
Nearby sights
- San Pedro de Atacama
- Church of San Pedro de Atacama
- Pukará de Quitor
- Valle de la Muerte (Valle de Marte)
- Piedra del Coyote (Mirador de Kari)
- Aldea de Tulor
- Valle de la Luna (Atacama)
- Laguna Cejar