Walichu Caves

About

Some 4,000 years ago, the indigenous people of Tierra del Fuego used the Walichu Caves as a giant art gallery. Creating pigments using everything from iron oxide and guanaco fat to egg white and human saliva, they adorned the rock walls with geometric shapes, human figures, hand prints, and other images they felt needed to be preserved for posterity. Some of the paintings have been painstakingly restored using the same techniques they were made with. You’ll learn about the paintings and native history through an audioguide, while enjoying the timeless beauty of the landscape and views of Lake Argentino. There’s also a small museum on site showcasing artifacts like arrowheads that have been found at the caves, while the gift shop sells clothing and souvenirs with cave painting motifs. Please note: the $20 entry fee is not included.