The Atacama Desert, nestled in the northern reaches of Chile 🇨🇱, is renowned as the driest desert on Earth, with its annual rainfall barely registering. This arid wonderland is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, expansive salt flats, and incredibly clear, star-studded night skies.
🧡 Itinerary:
Day 1️⃣
▫️ Morning: ✈️ Fly from Santiago to Calama (2h)
Upon arrival at Calama Airport, rent a car ($359) and drive to San Pedro de Atacama (2h). Check into your hotel.
▫️ Afternoon: 🚗 Explore Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) and Death Valley (Valle de la Muerte) 15:00-20:00 🎫CL$6000/10800
The surreal terrain, reminiscent of the lunar surface, will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
The aptly named Death Valley, due to its harsh, lifeless environment, transforms into a canvas of golden and red hues at sunset, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
▪️ Evening: 🚌 Stargazing Tour 🔭 21:30-00:00 🎫$100
Experience one of the world’s premier stargazing locations. The dry climate and minimal light pollution provide an unparalleled view of the Milky Way and countless stars.
A special treat: catch a glimpse of Jupiter’s rings, appearing like a delicate spindle in the night sky.
Day 2️⃣
▫️ Morning: 🚗 Visit Chaxa Lagoon (Laguna Chaxa)
Explore the serene waters of Chaxa Lagoon, home to numerous flamingos and other wildlife.
▫️ Afternoon: 🚗 High-altitude Lakes (Lagunas Miscanti/Miñiques/Piedras Rojas)
Journey to these high-altitude lakes, situated over 4000 meters above sea level, surrounded by majestic volcanoes.
The stunning vistas are perfect for hiking and photography, with the reflections of the volcanoes in the crystal-clear waters and the rich diversity of local wildlife.
⚠️ For self-driving to Laguna Miñiques, it’s essential to purchase tickets a day in advance and check in on the same day; otherwise, entry will be denied!
▪️ Evening: Leisure in San Pedro Town
Wander through the charming town, savoring local delicacies such as lamb or camel meat. Don’t miss the artisan shops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs to take home.
Day 3️⃣
▫️ Morning: 🚌 El Tatio Geysers
Join a tour to El Tatio Geysers from 4:00 – 12:00, where you’ll witness the geysers at their most active, with steam columns erupting from the ground as the sun rises. Continue to Machuca Village and Flamingo Lake (CL$40000).
▫️ Afternoon: 🚗 Drive back to Calama Airport ✈️ Return to Santiago
🟠 Accommodation:
🔹 Our Habitas Atacama ¥1880 (This beautifully decorated hotel offers a picturesque stay, though the service is average. Note that check-in is strictly after 3 PM, even if rooms are available 😂)
🔹 Incahuasi Travelodge ¥705 (A cozy homestay that feels like a mansion, complete with bedrooms, kitchen, and en-suite bathrooms, making for a comfortable and pleasant stay 👍)
🟤 Regrets:
1️⃣ Hand of the Desert (Desert Giant Hand)
2️⃣ Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache (Swimmable Salt Lakes)
(If anyone plans to visit these, please @ me 😭)
