🔸We embarked on an unforgettable full-day adventure to the Red Rocks (Piedras Rojas) in the charming town of San Pedro. After carefully comparing several local travel agencies, we decided on Taito Aventura, whose guide and driver were exceptionally enthusiastic and helpful. With all the agencies offering the same price, we chose the one that felt the most genuine and welcoming.
🔸Our day began with an early 5:00 AM pickup from our hotel, and we returned to the travel agency by 5:00 PM. The journey was long but filled with stunning landscapes. Along the way, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast and lunch, which kept us energized for the day’s activities. Our first stop was the breathtaking Red Rocks, where we hiked for about an hour and a half at an altitude of 4,000 meters.
It’s highly recommended to take altitude sickness medication the night before, as it can significantly reduce dizziness and chest tightness. Next, we explored two mesmerizing lagoons, each hike taking about half an hour. The lakes, with their vibrant blue hues, were truly a sight to behold, though we couldn’t get too close.
From a distance, we spotted flamingos and llamas drinking by the water, adding a touch of serene beauty to the scene. Our final stop was the flamingo reserve, home to mostly young Chilean flamingos, still small and not yet fully red. This spot was particularly sunny and warm, making it a perfect place to soak up the sun [sun R].
🔸Throughout the day, we encountered adorable little foxes, lizards, and herds of llamas 🦙, which made the experience even more delightful. The sun was intense, and there were no shady spots, so it was crucial to protect ourselves with sunscreen and hats. In the morning, the temperature was quite chilly, requiring a down jacket, but by midday and afternoon, it became very warm, and a tank top was more than sufficient.
🔸Initially, we had planned to join a stargazing tour in the evening, but the travel agency kindly informed us that the next two days would have a full moon, which is not ideal for stargazing. We decided to cancel that part of the trip. However, when we inquired with some other agencies, they did not mention the full moon and assured us that their stargazing tours could proceed as usual, which left us feeling a bit disappointed [sigh R].
