The Atacama Desert in Chile 🏜️, known as the world’s driest place, is an absolute must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast‼️
1⃣️ Transportation: You can easily book your flight to Calama on the Latam Airlines website, with departures available almost every hour ✈️. Upon arrival, head to the airport counter where you’ll find numerous bus companies offering direct tickets to San Pedro.
2⃣️ Itinerary recommendations (3 days recommended):
1. 🌛 Moon Valley (3-6 pm): This enchanting desert hike includes exploring salt mountains and culminates in a breathtaking sunset 🌇. The view is simply stunning! Remember to bring plenty of water, wear a sun hat, and dress appropriately for the arid climate.
2. ✨ Star tour (9 pm-12 am): A stargazing tour is an absolute must for everyone‼️ The night sky is truly awe-inspiring, and professional astronomers provide fascinating insights, making it an unforgettable experience 🌟
3. 🦩 Ruta de Los salares (8 am): Embark on this scenic route to witness a variety of salt flats and wetlands, teeming with flamingos, vicuñas, and other wildlife.
The natural beauty is captivating.
4. 🏠 Caracoles calle (small town): Despite its small size, this charming town offers a plethora of restaurants and bars, as well as local gift shops for some leisurely shopping. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the local culture.
5. ⛲️ Geyser Del tatio (4-5 am): Witness the ethereal geysers early in the morning, shrouded in mist and mystery.
It’s a magical start to your day.
6. 🏊 Laguna cejar: Experience the unique sensation of floating in a salt lake. While the water is cold, the experience is definitely worth it.
3⃣️ Tour groups: Tours in the Atacama are organized by attraction, and the travel agency will provide a detailed list. You pay based on the number of attractions you choose 💰. If you plan to join activities in the afternoon after arriving in the morning, it’s best to book at least one day in advance. I used [Alabalti Atacama] and found them to be excellent. There’s also a street in the town filled with travel agencies, where you can get more information and make bookings.
5⃣️ Hotels: Choose a hotel close to the Caracoles Calle town ❗️ This ensures easy access to the town center, where buses drop off passengers after excursions. I stayed at NOI, and my friend chose Kimal—both were great. Since you won’t spend much time in the hotel, proximity to the town is key.
6⃣️ Restaurant recommendations 🍴:
Adobe: A beloved local restaurant and a must-try in Chile, known for its delicious and generous portions.
La Picada Del Indio: A hidden gem favored by locals, offering affordable and tasty meals, though it’s a bit off the beaten path.
