Luxury and adventure in the Atacama Desert

For being the driest non-polar desert in the world, you would be surprised by all the natural beauties and thrilling activities you can encounter at Chile’s Atacama Desert, alongside luxury accommodation and unique spa experiences. Read on to find out what your Atacama adventure can look like.

Nestled between the towering Andes and the vast Pacific Ocean sits the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. As a traveler to the driest desert on Earth, you’ll experience the salt-crusted valleys, natural hot springs, lunar-like landscapes, and flamingo-dotted lagoons of Chile. Not to mention incredible stargazing. Today, Atacama continues to captivate travelers with its unique geology, astronomy observatories, and a delicate ecosystem that has adapted to one of the most challenging environments on the planet.

What to know about San Pedro de Atacama

Located just a one-hour drive from the Calama airport, you will find the quaint town of San Pedro de Atacama sitting at 7,900ft (2,407m) above sea level. The area around San Pedro has been inhabited by various indigenous cultures, including the Atacameño people who are considered the region's earliest known settlers. The Atacameños were skilled farmers, adapting to the arid conditions by developing advanced agricultural techniques, such as terraced farming and irrigation systems. They built intricate adobe structures, some of which are still visible today. In recent decades, San Pedro de Atacama has transformed into a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its unique blend of history, stunning landscapes, and proximity to natural wonders like the Valle de la Luna and the Tatio Geysers.

The town preserves its historic charm while embracing tourists from all around the world. SA Expeditions travelers can pick between privately guided tours to the various highlights or opt for an all-inclusive route at one of our preferred lodges.

Exploring the desert in style

For being one of the driest deserts in the world, it does not lack on adventure and beauty for every style of travel. Whether you are hoping to challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Toco Volcano or relax by the natural hot springs of Puritama, Atacama does not disappoint. With tons of diversity in excursions it can be hard to choose, but here are some of our favorites…

Toconao & Salar de Atacama

One of the must-sees for the region and a great option for your first day as you adjust to the altitude change. Los Flamencos National Reserve at Chaxa Lagoon is home to various flamingo species, and the walk through the salt flats is a photography heaven. With a little luck and patience, you might be able to grab a shot of flamingos flying over the lagoon. In route to the salt flats, you can make a stop at the town of Toconao, a secluded desert village with its historical 18th century bell tower and desert backdrops.

Vallecito

A staple tour for any trip to Atacama is the Vallecito (Little Valley). This surreal terrain mirrors the lunar surface and is marked by towering salt sculpture and dramatic rock formations. Our SA tip is to plan this visit in the late afternoon so you can catch the sunset casting its colors of the rock formations.

Sunrise visit to Tatio Geysers

With a geological history dating back thousands of years, the Tatio Geysers will be a highlight of your trip. The geothermal activity at El Tatio is a result of the interaction between subterranean water and magma chambers beneath the Earth's surface. The name "Tatio" comes from the indigenous Quechua language, meaning "Crying Mountain." The geysers, numbering over 80, showcase impressive steam and hot water eruptions which make even the 4am wake up worth it. Just be sure to bring plenty of layers!

Stargazing tour at a local observatory

A guided astronomy tour is an unforgettable experience due to the high altitude, dry air, and minimal light pollution. With the help of your local expert and a few high-powered telescopes, you’ll be able to see galaxies, nebulae, and planets with remarkable clarity. On clear nights, you can even catch yourself counting Saturn’s rings!

Rainbow Valley

Just a short drive from San Pedro, this geological wonder gets its name from the vibrant array of minerals that paint the landscape in various colors. The walk through the valley will unveil the geological history of the region, with each layer of rock representing millions of years of sedimentation and mineral deposits. In route back to town, you will also stop in the town of Hierbas Buenas to have a glimpse at some pre-Columbian petroglyphs.

Free day/afternoon at your Atacama lodge

Atacama’s variety of tours and excursions can make it easy to create a packed schedule. Building an itinerary with a bit of down time to relax and enjoy is highly recommended. Located just about 10 minutes from town, travelers can choose their ideal all-inclusive desert lodge that offers top-notch excursions and luxury spas, such as the Tierra Atacama Lodge.

Tierra Atacama – A Desert Oasis

The quaint Tierra Atacama lodge is an all-inclusive property offering guests a true sense of luxury in the desert. The minimalist design is carried throughout the hotel, combining touches of local culture and sophistication to each space. Atacama visitors are welcomed by numerous outdoor patios, a fully equipped spa, and a complete list of guided excursions to explore the wonders of the region.

Each room at Tierra is carefully created with guest serenity in mind, featuring materials that reflect the local surroundings from handwoven throws to cowhide rugs and llama figures. All three category of rooms include a private terrace, outdoor shower, and large windows for viewing the Andes Mountain range in the distance. Travelers choosing an upgrade to the Oriente rooms are provided with privileged views of the Licancabur volcano or the Cordillera de Sal straight from their stylish, four poster beds. Looking or a more family-friendly option? Tierra has you covered with an onsite “apartment” that accommodates up to six people.

The Uma Spa at Tierra is the perfect spot to spend your leisure time after a morning of exploring in the desert. Guests can immerse themselves in therapeutic treatments, from indigenous-inspired massages to rejuvenating facials, providing a harmonious balance between the luxurious amenities and the unique minerals of the region. All guests have free access to the outdoor jacuzzi and pool, along with a steam room and heated indoor pool for a dip between spa treatments.

Are you ready to experience the perfect balance of a desert adventure and luxury? Embark on a journey of your own to the mystical land of Atacama! Remember – your itinerary is customizable, so be sure to talk to a Destination Expert to include your unique travel style and needs to your trip.