The Atacama volcanic salt lake landscape in northern Chile is truly a marvel of nature! Nestled next to the Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia, you can easily plan a trip that includes both stunning destinations. This guide focuses on Atacama; most local travel agencies offer combined tours for a seamless experience.
✈️ Start your adventure by flying from Santiago, the capital of Chile, to Calama. Upon arrival, hop on a bus to the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama for just $25. The journey is as scenic as it is affordable!
📝 South America’s tourism industry is well-developed, and this is evident in San Pedro de Atacama. The main street is a bustling hub of activity, with more travel agencies than restaurants (yes, you read that right!). While you can shop around for the best deals, the prices and itineraries are generally quite similar.
Paying in cash with Chilean pesos often nets you a nice discount. We opted for Horizonte Atacama, which offers 1 full-day tour and 4 half-day tours for 250,000 pesos per person, or about $260. Other agencies like Denomades allow online booking, but be aware that TripAdvisor prices tend to be higher.
[Star][Star][Star][Star] The Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) half-day tour runs from 3:30-8:30 pm. Along the way, you’ll stop at several viewpoints, each requiring a short 10-minute walk. Don’t forget your sunscreen and be prepared for possible sandstorms! The tour culminates with a breathtaking sunset view, where the sky paints the valley in a dazzling array of colors.
[Star][Star][Star][Star][Star] The Red Rocks (Las Piedras Rojas) full-day tour from 7 am to 5 pm is an absolute must-see. It includes a morning visit to Laguna Chaxa to watch flamingos, a 1-hour hike at Red Rocks, and stops to see waterfowl and vicuñas at the southern salt flats. Pro tip: Morning light is softer and better for photography, so don’t miss this early start!
[Star][Star] The Geysers half-day tour from 4:30 am to 12 pm was a bit underwhelming compared to the geysers in Yellowstone. The early morning temperatures can drop below zero, making it extremely cold. If you’re not keen on waking up before dawn, you might consider skipping this one.
[Star][Star][Star][Star] The Salt Lake Swimming half-day tour to the Hidden Lagoon of Baltinache/Cejar from 2-7 pm is a delightful surprise. Floating in the salt lake, gazing at the vast sky and surrounding mountains, feels incredibly liberating. The water is a bit chilly but manageable. If you forgot your swimsuit, local stores have a limited selection available.
[Star][Star][Star][Star][Star] The Stargazing Tour (Tour Astronomico) from 9-11:30 pm is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be driven to a pitch-black location equipped with pre-set telescopes, where guides provide explanations and help you observe the night sky. The absence of light pollution makes the stars shine brilliantly. For the best experience, check the moon phase and position of the Milky Way, and aim for a crescent moon!
💡 Tips:
– For all tours except the stargazing adventure, transportation is provided from your hotel to the town’s parking lot.
– We recommend registering for WhatsApp ahead of time, as the travel agency will set up a group chat for important updates and communication.
– Given the significant temperature fluctuations, it’s wise to pack extra layers to stay comfortable.
– At high altitudes, it’s crucial to take frequent breaks and allow your body to acclimate. Rest is key!
– If you’re in good physical shape, consider hiking the volcano for an exhilarating experience.
