The Cave of the Hands, Santa Cruz – Full Day

Discover the captivating Cave of the Hands in Santa Cruz, Argentina. This full-day tour immerses visitors in the ancient world of indigenous peoples through their stunning rock art. From the thousands of handprints to the intricate animal depictions, the cave offers a unique glimpse into the lives and culture of the past. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and a delicious local lunch, this unforgettable experience allows you to explore the cave’s rich history while surrounded by the breathtaking Patagonian landscape. Uncover the secrets of this extraordinary site and delve deeper into the story it has to tell.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Patagonia.

Key Points

• Full-day excursion to the renowned Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands) in remote Patagonia, Argentina, featuring ancient rock art.
• Air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, and entrance fees included in the 5-star rated tour experience.
• Lunch with 4 empanadas, fruit, and water provided during the tour to fuel visitors.
• Limited to 15 travelers for an intimate, personalized experience with prompt pickup from Hotel Austral.
• Opportunity to explore the cave’s thousands of handprints and cultural significance dating back over 13,000 years.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day excursion to the renowned Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands) located in the Patagonian region of Argentina.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance to the Cave of the Hands.

Participants will enjoy a lunch of 4 empanadas, fruit, and water.

The tour departs at 8:00 am from the Hotel Austral in Perito Moreno and is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

It’s an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore this iconic Patagonian site.

Location and Accessibility

Patagonia, the vast and rugged region of Argentina, is home to the renowned Cueva de las Manos, or Cave of the Hands.

This ancient site, nestled in the remote wilderness, offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the region’s indigenous inhabitants.

The cave’s accessibility presents a few key considerations:

• The tour pickup point is located at the Hotel Austral in Perito Moreno, approximately a 30-minute drive from the cave.
• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as the terrain and entry to the cave require mobility.
• Infants are welcome, with provided infant seats, but must sit on laps during the tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

For the full-day tour of the Cave of the Hands in Santa Cruz, the package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide, and entrance to the Cueva de las Manos.

Travelers will also enjoy a lunch consisting of 4 empanadas, fruit, and water. However, any additional services or food not explicitly mentioned aren’t included in the tour.

The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infants can sit on laps with infant seats available.

Pickup and Start Time

Travelers are reliably picked up from the Hotel Austral, located at Avenida San Martin 1381 in Perito Moreno Z9040AGH, Argentina, with the tour starting promptly at 8:00 am.

This early start time allows for a full day of exploration and discovery at the iconic Cave of the Hands.

Key details include:

• Confirmation is provided upon booking
• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps, with infant seats available

The timely pickup and punctual start ensure guests make the most of their full-day adventure in Patagonia.

Confirmation and Group Size

Confirmation of the tour reservation is provided right away once booking is completed. This ensures travelers have their tour details secured.

The group size is capped at a maximum of 15 participants. This keeps the experience intimate and allows the guide to provide personalized attention to each guest.

Infants are welcome but must sit on a guardian’s lap during the tour. The small group size and inclusion of infants create a family-friendly atmosphere for the Cave of the Hands excursion.

Whether traveling solo or in a group, guests can look forward to an immersive and memorable tour experience with this thoughtful group size policy.

Stunning Rock Art

The Cave of the Hands boasts some of the most captivating and well-preserved rock art in the world.

The cave features:

• Thousands of handprints in various colors, including red, white, and yellow, created by the indigenous people who once inhabited the region.

• Detailed depictions of animals, such as guanacos, rheas, and pumas, showcasing the artistic talent and keen observation of the artists.

• Unique geometric patterns and symbols that provide insight into the cultural beliefs and symbolic language of the ancient inhabitants.

This remarkable collection of rock art, dating back over 13,000 years, offers a glimpse into the rich history and artistic legacy of Patagonia’s indigenous communities.

Guided Exploration

On the full-day tour, guests embark on a guided exploration of the Cave of the Hands, seeing the ancient rock art that adorns the cave walls.

Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, visitors learn about the history, significance, and techniques used to create the mesmerizing hand stencils and other prehistoric depictions.

The guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the cave’s rich cultural heritage to life. Guests have ample time to wander through the cave, capturing breathtaking photographs and gaining a deeper understanding of the Patagonian indigenous peoples who left their mark on this remarkable site thousands of years ago.

Mouthwatering Lunch

After a morning of captivating exploration, guests indulge in a mouthwatering lunch provided as part of the tour.

The delectable spread includes:

• 4 empanadas, a classic Argentine pastry filled with savory ingredients
• Refreshing seasonal fruit
• Chilled bottled water to quench the thirst

This hearty and wholesome meal energizes visitors, preparing them for the remainder of the day’s adventure.

The combination of local flavors and fresh produce offers a true taste of the Patagonian region, complementing the immersive experience of discovering the Cave of the Hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Strenuous Is the Hike to the Cave?

The hike to the cave is moderately strenuous, with some steep sections, but it’s manageable for most visitors. Proper hiking shoes and a moderate level of fitness are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes a provided lunch of 4 empanadas, fruit, and water, so outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, a private tour option is available. Travelers can request a private tour, which provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexible scheduling, subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Are Photography and Video Allowed Inside the Cave?

Photography and video are generally allowed inside the cave, though visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid using flash, which can damage the delicate rock art. Tripods may also be restricted to protect the cave’s fragile environment.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

Visitors don’t need any special equipment for this tour. The tour includes a bilingual guide, and photography and video are allowed inside the cave. Comfortable walking shoes and light clothing are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Recap

The Cave of the Hands in Santa Cruz, Argentina, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the captivating history of indigenous cultures. With its stunning rock art, breathtaking Patagonian landscapes, and delectable local cuisine, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. From the comfortable transportation to the knowledgeable guidance, every aspect of the tour ensures an immersive and enriching exploration of this remarkable cultural treasure.