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The salt flats of the Atacama Desert stretch as far as the eye can see

Atacama Desert

Example 4-5 Day Tour
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Discover the mystical beauty and inspiring geology of the Atacama Desert. Witness the fantastic colorful display of the Valley of the Moon at sunset. Visit the altiplanic lagoons Miscanti & Meñiques and spend a day visiting the Tatio Geysers. With more time, you can choose from a variety of day tours that explore this incredible region. Take an archaeological tour at the famous the Museo Gustavo Le Paige museum. Explore the Lasana valley and its preserved petroglyphs. The opportunities to explore this region are endless. Spend your nights in San Pedro de Atacama, where our lodge options provides relaxing accommodations while appreciating the traditional ways of life of the indigenous communities of the area.
A magnificent sunset over Atacama's ValleyAtacama MoonFlamingos in the lagoons of the Atacama DesertThe cracked terrain of AtacamaAtacama DesertLooking out over the Atacama DesertOn top of the world in the Atacama Desert, ChileEnjoy your stay at the uniquely stucco Hotel AltiplanicoThe salt flats of the Atacama Desert stretch as far as the eye can see
Highlights
  • Discover the mystical beauty and inspiring geology of the Atacama Desert.
  • View turquoise lagoons contrasting with the desert reds and oranges.
  • Experience the Geysers of Tatio as boiling steam bursts into the sky.
  • Watch the moon rise over the wind-sculpted salt statues in the Moon Valley
Activities
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Atacama

Upon your arrival at the Calama airport, A representative from the lodge will meet you and take you straight to San Pedro de Atacama, passing the stunning rock formations of the Cordillera de la Sal (Salt Mountains). After you are comfortably settled into your room, spend the first day of the trip relaxing or exploring the village.

Please select a flight that lands prior to noon (12:00 pm).

Order of tours subject to change

Day 2: Altiplanic Lagoons & traditional wool manufacturing of Socaire

Begin your adventure by heading south toward the "Puna" or Highlands/Altiplanic after breakfast, and be amazed by its landscapes featuring crystal-clear waters surrounded by vast expanses of salt flats and high-altitude deserts and habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. The Miscanti Lagoon (the largest in the region) is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Later, pay a visit to the Village of Socaire, where the local indigenous community still holds on to some of their traditional way of life. Experience the unique culture and traditions of the local people, including their distinctive architecture, handicrafts, and cuisine.

Day 3: Tatio Geysers

Get ready for an early morning wake-up call to witness the impressive Tatio Geysers in action. Boiling steam rises high into the air, sometimes reaching heights of up to 40 meters, creating a stunning visual display.

Head towards one of the entrances to the Andean highlands, traversing important altitude ecosystems with incredibly rich biodiversity such as the wetlands of Machuca and Putana. Make a stop at the small farming village of Machuca, then continue to the awe-inspiring natural spectacle of the El Tatio geyser field. Afterwards, return to San Pedro to explore another magnificent gift of nature known as the "Geyser Blanco" (White Geyser), where those with a daring spirit can take a dip in the thermal waters in the middle of the riverbed.

Order of tours subject to change

Day 4: Moon Valley | Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
Begin your journey from the hotel around 6:30 AM* and set your sights on the majestic and peaceful Salt Mountain Range. Enjoy breakfast while taking in the sunrise. Afterwards, embark on the final hike in the grand and stunning Valley of the Moon. Walk alongside sand dunes until you reach the lookout, where you will behold one of the world's most gorgeous and unique landscapes, accentuated by the warm hues throughout the valley.
*Exact pick up time will be communicated on the day of arrival.

Later, you will connect with two Ayllus (local families) in San Pedro and savor traditional Atacameñan dishes. Learn about the history, culture, and challenges of San Pedro de Atacama. (This excursion could be changed for a visit to a local Ceramic Workshop.)

Depart from your lodge and return to Calama airport to fly on to your next adventure or return to Santiago to fly home. It is suggested that you choose a flight departing from Calama (CJC) after 5:00 PM to allow sufficient time for the transfer to the airport.

Accommodations

Atacama Desert - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$1,748 2-3 travelers

Notes

Select a Date

Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch
  • 3 Nights Accommodations
  • 3 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • View the Documents Tab in MyTrips for your Atacama Desert Packing List
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
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Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Jack Charney

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