Atacama Desert: Travel Guide

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders. With its surreal landscapes, crystal-clear skies, and incredible biodiversity, the Atacama Desert is a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're stargazing under the clearest skies on Earth or exploring alien-like geological formations, the Atacama Desert has something to captivate every traveler.

Getting There

The Atacama Desert is located in northern Chile, approximately 1,000 km (621 miles) north of Santiago. The nearest airport is Calama Airport (CJC), just an hour’s drive from San Pedro de Atacama. From there, taxis and shuttle services are readily available to transport you to your accommodation in San Pedro.

Where to Stay

Hostels: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, starting at $15 per night.

Mid-range hotels: Comfortable options priced between $80 and $150 per night.

Luxury resorts: High-end retreats with amenities like spas and guided tours, starting at $300 per night.

Top Attractions

Stargazing

Why It's Special: Renowned for its clear, unpolluted skies, the Atacama Desert is a global hotspot for stargazing. Join a guided night tour to marvel at constellations, planets, and distant galaxies through powerful telescopes.

Best Time: March to December, when the skies are clearest.

Cost: Tours start at $30 per person.

Salar de Atacama (Salt Flats)

Why It's Special: This expansive salt flat is home to stunning landscapes and a variety of wildlife, including flamingos that inhabit the Chaxa Lagoon.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning for cooler temperatures and vibrant lighting.

Cost: Entry fees start at $5.

Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

Why It's Special: Resembling the lunar surface, this area features striking rock formations, vast sand dunes, and deep canyons.

Highlights: Duna Mayor, Las Tres Marías, and salt caves.

Cost: Entrance fee is approximately $10.

El Tatio Geysers

Why It's Special: Witness geysers erupting in the early morning against a backdrop of Andean peaks. Located at over 4,000 meters above sea level, this geothermal field is one of the largest in the world.

Pro Tip: Dress warmly as temperatures can drop below freezing.

Cost: Entry fee is around $20.

Lagunas Altiplánicas (High-Altitude Lakes)

Why It's Special: The Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons offer breathtaking views of turquoise waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes.

Wildlife: Spot flamingos, foxes, and Andean geese.

Cost: Guided tours start at $50.

Best Time to Visit

The shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and fall (March-May) are ideal for mild temperatures and fewer crowds. For stargazing, visit during the dry months of March to December.