The driest place on Earth, with the least precipitation, is not in Central Asia or the Sahara, but in the Atacama Desert in the far north of Chile. Due to climatic and geological reasons, this area has formed a landscape that resembles an alien world, featuring valleys filled with tall cacti, a dazzling starry sky and Milky Way, and salt lakes where you can float!
⭕ Transportation:
From Santiago, Chile, Latam Airlines has a flight to Calama every hour. After arriving, you can buy a bus ticket directly from the airport shuttle company to San Pedro.
⭕ Accommodation:
The town is small, so it’s convenient to stay anywhere. If you like a lively atmosphere, you can stay on the main street; if you prefer quiet, you can stay on a residential street. Both are within a ten-minute walk.
⭕ Itinerary Recommendations:
There are many different routes to choose from, including desert, salt lake craters, river valley cold springs, night stargazing, and more. It is recommended to spend at least 3 days for the entire trip.
All trips are far from the town. There are many travel agencies on the main street, and it is suggested to sign up for day tours or half-day tours. Prices vary greatly among different travel agencies, so be sure to compare prices carefully! ❗
1️⃣ Moon Valley: This is usually a half-day trip in the afternoon. The terrain is very similar to Mars, and the itinerary includes hiking on salt mountains and in the desert, watching the sunset, and having a small picnic. ⚠️ It’s really hot! 🌞 Bring plenty of water and pay attention to sun protection.
2️⃣ Stargazing Tour: You can really see the entire Milky Way hanging in the sky! The Milky Way in the Southern Hemisphere is truly different, and you won’t see the Big Dipper! There are professional guides who explain astronomical knowledge. ⚠️ If the weather is clear, make every effort to go stargazing!
3️⃣ Ruta de Los salares: This route allows you to see many different salt flats and wetlands, as well as flamingos, vicuñas, and other wildlife. The scenery is beautiful.
4️⃣ Geyser Del tatio: The geysers can only be seen in the morning when the thermal steam rises, creating a misty and ethereal feeling. ⚠️ At an altitude of 3-4,000 meters, be sure to dress warmly!
5️⃣ Laguna Cejar: Known as the Dead Sea of Chile, you can float on the salt lake, and with the backdrop of red volcanoes, it’s even more picturesque than the Dead Sea! ⚠️ Remember to wear your swimsuit underneath, as there are no changing rooms on site.
6️⃣ River Valley Hiking: While the entire desert is barren, the river valleys are lush with vegetation, and cacti several meters high can be seen everywhere. Hiking along the river valley, you can reach several cold springs, which are perfect for cooling off!
7️⃣ Volcano Climbing: This requires getting up early, and it’s very cold and windy on the mountain. Louis did not participate, but fellow travelers said that although it was intense, it was worth it.
