Interesting Chilean story Jeff. But lacking in details. I know the area. there are copper mines to the north near Calama the track winds south east into the Devils canyon which leads to Atacama. It would be the logical trail to follow as it follows for most of the way through the water courses.
If you look into the center of the picture the stream leads you to devils canyon. This picture is looking from the Inca ruin that is mile or so from Tacena below.
True But I've Walked about 8 Mile Carrying all my Detecting Equipment,
Detected a Bit in Between, & only a Mile or so from my car, Was convinced I was going to need to,
Rest for a Few Hours to make that last Stretch.
First think that would go were, my Lower Leg Muscles in the back would Tighten
just below the knees, making walking
excruciating .
Heck I've been across the 2 lane street From my Car & Never thought I'd Make it across,
in time Without getting hit by a Car, & The road was Deserted Just too Damn Far
So Yes. I Can imagine Hiding it Because it was Just too Far. as one of the reasons