- 4.9/5 350 Latest reviews
- Destination: Chile
- Duration: 6 Days
- Tour Type: Private & Bespoke
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
The Atacama Desert feels like a world beyond Earth, featuring vibrant rock formations, sweeping sand dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and powerful geysers. On this 6-day journey, enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky at the Ahlarkapin Observatory, witness a spectacular sunset in Moon Valley, and spot pink flamingos across the vast Atacama Salt Flats. After exploring the dramatic geyser fields at Tatio Geyser, unwind by soaking in the natural hot springs of Puritama.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1
Santiago
Arrival
2 - 5
San Pedro de Atacama
Star Gazing at Ahlarkapin Observatory, Valley of the Moon, Atacama Salt Flats, Chaxa Lagoon, Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons, Tatio Geysers Sunrise Tour, Hot Spring Bath in Puritama
6
Santiago
Departure
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Santiago & Private Hotel Transfer
In northern Chile lies a truly surreal destination: the Atacama Desert. Known as the driest non-polar region on the planet, this remarkable landscape showcases striking natural wonders—from vibrant rock formations and sweeping sand dunes to crystal-clear turquoise lagoons inhabited by pink flamingos, as well as powerful geothermal geysers.
With regular flights arriving in Calama, the main gateway to the Atacama Desert, your journey begins with an overnight stay in Santiago, Chile’s lively and cosmopolitan capital. Upon landing at Santiago International Airport, you will be greeted by a private driver and transferred comfortably to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and unwind at your own pace.
- Santiago
- Day 2: Flight to Calama & Journey to San Pedro de Atacama
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, board your flight to the city of Calama, followed by an approximately one-hour drive to San Pedro de Atacama. This charming desert town, equipped with essential tourism services such as accommodations, dining options, and tour operators, serves as the main hub for exploring the breathtaking Atacama Desert and its surrounding attractions.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take time to relax. As evening approaches, set out on a fascinating stargazing experience at the Ahlarkapin Observatory. Thanks to its high elevation, extremely dry climate, and minimal light pollution, the Atacama Desert is one of the world’s finest locations for astronomical observation, with a sky brilliantly illuminated by stars. During the tour, you will gain insights into the science of astronomy and view planets and constellations through one of the largest privately owned telescopes in the world—an experience that truly brings the wonders of the universe to life.
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- San Pedro de Atacama
- Day 3: San Pedro de Atacama & Sunset Experience in the Valley of the Moon
In the late afternoon, depart for an excursion to the famous Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna). Shaped over time by the forces of wind and water, this extraordinary landscape features dramatic rock and salt formations that closely resemble the surface of the moon. Carefully navigating the terrain, you are free to explore the sand dunes, venture into salt caverns, and wander through this surreal environment at your own pace.
The highlight of the visit unfolds as the sun begins to set, transforming the valley into a canvas of vivid colors—shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and blue gradually wash over the land. This breathtaking natural spectacle feels like a light show created by nature itself, making it an unforgettable moment. Be sure to capture these stunning scenes with your camera as the desert glows in the fading light.
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- San Pedro de Atacama
- Day 4: San Pedro de Atacama & Exploration of Salt Flats and Flamingos
Today’s adventure takes you to the Atacama Salt Flats (Salar de Atacama) and the highland lagoons. Nestled within the vast desert plains and framed by the majestic Andes Mountains, this salt flat ranks as the second-largest in the world.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the rare pink flamingos gracefully wading through the waters of Chaxa Lagoon, located at the heart of the salt flats. You will also visit the striking lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques, renowned for their vibrant turquoise waters. Along the way, it’s possible to encounter native wildlife such as vicuñas, relatives of llamas. The excursion also features a traditional Chilean lunch in the village of Socaire and a visit to the historic Church of San Lucas in Toconao.
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- San Pedro de Atacama
- Day 5: San Pedro de Atacama – Tatio Geysers & Relaxing Hot Springs
A few hours north of San Pedro lies the spectacular Tatio Geysers, one of the Atacama Desert’s most impressive natural attractions. The ideal time to experience this geothermal wonder is at sunrise, when the geysers erupt most dramatically and the landscape is cloaked in a mystical glow. Prepare for an early start, leaving around 4:30 am, and take in the breathtaking sight of steam and water jets shooting up to 10 meters into the air. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amid this extraordinary scenery.
On your return journey to San Pedro, stop at the small village of Machuca to experience local culture. Continue to the Puritama Hot Springs, where you can soak in the warm mineral waters and unwind after an adventurous morning in the high desert.
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- San Pedro de Atacama
- Day 6: Return to Santiago & Departure
Enjoy a leisurely morning in San Pedro before heading to Calama Airport for your flight back to Santiago.
Upon arrival in Santiago, bid farewell to Chile and proceed to the international terminal to catch your onward flight home.
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