1️⃣ Moon Valley Tour 👍👍👍
Spanish Name: Valle de la Luna
The Moon Valley is a must-see destination in Atacama, offering a unique experience of the “most moon-like terrain on Earth,” as certified by NASA. This tour also provides a breathtaking sunset view that you won’t want to miss.
Price: The tour costs 25,000 CLP, with an additional entrance fee of 10,800 CLP.
Time: Meet at the agency at 3:30 PM for departure. The tour includes a few short and easy hikes. After enjoying the stunning sunset, you’ll return to town around 8:30 PM.
❗️Don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated!
2️⃣ Other Tours
(1) Geysers Tour 💧:
– Principle: Geysers are most active in the early morning when the ground temperature is at its lowest. As cold water meets underground magma, it rapidly vaporizes, creating spectacular eruptions. After sunrise, the intensity and frequency of these eruptions decrease as temperatures rise.
(2) Stargazing Tour 🌟:
– Atacama is one of the premier stargazing destinations on Earth. If you’ve never observed the stars, this is the perfect place to start.
– Reasons: The area’s sparse population and minimal light pollution, combined with its high altitude, thin atmosphere, and low turbulence, make for exceptionally clear night skies.
– Timing is crucial: During a full moon, the Milky Way becomes almost invisible due to the bright moonlight, and only the brighter stars and planets can be seen.
(3) Rainbow Valley Tour 🌈:
– The vibrant, striped mountains formed by minerals such as iron oxide (red), sulfur (yellow), copper (green), and calcium salts (white) create a natural rainbow effect.
– I had originally planned to take this tour, but a last-minute change in my flight schedule prevented me from going. It’s definitely on my list for next time! 💔
(4) Hand of the Desert Tour ✋:
– I’ve seen some impressive photos online, but it seems to be a less-visited site.
– Located in Antofagasta, about a 4-5 hour drive from San Pedro de Atacama, this tour is ideal for those who are driving or have ample time to explore.
It’s a unique and memorable experience worth considering.
Without realizing it, this turned into a bit of an educational piece 😅.
