Cave wall covered in overlapping handprints of various sizes, stenciled in shades of brown, red, and white. This striking prehistoric rock art is found in the Cave of the Hands, a highlight for those on Cave of the Hands tours.
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Cave of the Hands Tours

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Cave of the Hands tours are ideal for travelers interested in Patagonia’s ancient history and dramatic landscapes. The Cueva de las Manos (Cave of the Hands) is one of South America’s most important examples of prehistoric rock art and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cave’s famous handprints and hunting scenes date back thousands of years and offer a rare glimpse into early human life in Patagonia.

Discover Patagonia’s Prehistoric Art & Landscapes: The vivid hand stencils—painted in red, black, white, and yellow pigments—were created by the Tehuelche people using a technique where one hand was pressed against the rock while pigment was blown through a hollow bone or reed. In addition to the iconic handprints, visitors will see detailed scenes of guanaco hunting and daily life, brought to life by an experienced local guide.

On a trip to Patagonia, the Cave of the Hands is most commonly accessed from El Calafate, making it easy to combine a visit with highlights such as the Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. We can seamlessly incorporate the Cave of the Hands into a broader Patagonia itinerary alongside glaciers, wildlife, and iconic landscapes.

All Cave of the Hands Tours

  • A wooden cart rests in a field of blooming lupines, with green trees, a lake, and the snow-capped mountains of Patagonia rising in the background—an idyllic scene reminiscent of estancias beneath a partly cloudy sky.
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    Map of southern Argentina and Chile in Patagonia showing travel routes between El Calafate, El Chaltén, and Los Glaciares. Icons indicate overnights, estancias, and glacier excursions. Inset map highlights the region’s location in South America.
    Cave of the Hands Perito Moreno Glacier Argentina South America Buenos Aires El Calafate Patagonia Los Glaciares National Park
  • Three guanacos stand in a grassy field with mountains in the background under a blue sky, showcasing the natural beauty often experienced on Southern Patagonia tours.
    Map of southern Chile highlighting a Patagonia travel route from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales, Seno Otway, Balmaceda Glacier, and Torres del Paine. Inset shows Southern Patagonia’s location in South America. Circles mark stops; lines indicate excursions and overnights.
    Cave of the Hands Chile South America Patagonia Santiago Torres del Paine
  • Marble caves with intricate blue and white patterns reflect on vibrant turquoise water below, creating a striking natural scene along the famous Patagonian Route 40—an unforgettable highlight of any Patagonian tour.
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    Map showing the Patagonia Tour route from Bariloche to El Chaltén along Patagonian Route 40, passing landmarks like Marble Caves, Los Antiguos, Cave of the Hands, and Sarmiento Petrified Forest, with excursion and overnight stops marked.
    Argentina Buenos Aires Bariloche Patagonia Cave of the Hands

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