Village of Mamiña

Nestled in the foothills of the Andes in the Tarapacá Region, at an altitude of over 2,800 meters above sea level, the village of Mamiña—whose name derives from the Aymara word *imilla*, meaning "apple of my eye"—is a unique destination that blends medicinal thermal waters, pre-Hispanic history, living culture, and Andean traditions. Located in the commune of Pozo Almonte and home to the Mamiña Indigenous Community, the village is a key hub for health and wellness tourism in northern Chile. Thermal and Wellness Tourism: Mamiña’s main attraction is its sulfurous thermal waters, renowned since pre-Inca times for their healing properties. Local legend holds that the daughter of an Inca chief regained her sight thanks to these waters, giving rise to the name "apple of my eye." The thermal waters flow from various springs, most notably: the Ipla Spring (45°C), the El Tambo Spring (57°C), and the Barros Chinos (Chinese Mud) thermal baths, where therapeutic mud containing micro-vegetation is traditionally used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis. These springs offer opportunities for immersion baths, mud applications, and direct consumption of the water, attracting local communities as well as domestic and international tourists alike. The purity of the water even led Coca-Cola to establish a mineral water bottling plant there. Historical, Archaeological, and Cultural Heritage: Mamiña’s historic center preserves traces of the Spanish colonial era, featuring adobe structures, narrow streets, and traditional Andean architecture. However, human settlement in the area dates back much further, with evidence of Puquina and Quechua presence predating Inca rule. On the hills surrounding the village, one can observe petroglyphs and potential geoglyphs linked to caravan routes and Andean agricultural rituals. These sites are believed to have been used by the Incas for orientation and transit ceremonies between the highlands and the coast, dating back more than 1,500 years. Mamiña is also notable for its living culture, expressed through traditional festivals, agricultural rites, and ancestral dances such as the *Cachimbo de las Heladas*—a ceremonial dance tied to the blessing of crops and the stewardship of the land. Community, Rural, and Gastronomic Tourism: The local community has revitalized traditional farming practices by using agricultural terraces to grow corn, vegetables, and Andean fruits. Agrotourism routes are promoted, allowing visitors to explore community farms, learn about planting techniques, and participate in agricultural tasks. TOURISM RESOURCE INVENTORY – RESOURCE REGISTRATION FORM. Local cuisine offers flavors deeply rooted in the landscape, featuring dishes such as: - Llama stew with Andean herbs. - *Picante de conejo* (spicy rabbit stew). - Medicinal infusions made from *matico*, *sorona*, and horsetail (*cola de caballo*). Artisanal crafts are also produced using *liparita*, a volcanic stone worked by local artisans. Nature and Adventure Tourism: Mamiña is surrounded by ravines, hills, and natural viewpoints ideal for: - Family and mid-mountain trekking - Interpretive hiking - Andean flora and fauna observation - Rock art exploration. The landscape offers a contrast between agricultural terraces, volcanic formations, and the clear skies of the highlands. Astrotourism and Celestial Knowledge: Thanks to its low light pollution and high altitude, Mamiña is a prime location for stargazing. Clear nights offer opportunities for astrotourism, complemented by local stories about ancestral agricultural calendars and rituals linked to celestial movements, thereby integrating science with the Andean worldview. A Sustainable, Community-Led Approach: Mamiña is currently championing a model of sustainable and culturally respectful tourism, led by the local Indigenous community and supported by partnerships with public and private stakeholders. This approach aims to protect natural resources and local identity while ensuring economic, social, and cultural benefits for residents. Mamiña is a holistic destination offering physical, spiritual, and cultural well-being within a mountain setting rich in history, natural beauty, and community life. It is an ideal choice for those seeking to reconnect with nature, discover living traditions, enjoy distinctive local cuisine, and experience the natural healing properties of the Andean desert waters.