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Overview of San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama, located in northern Chile, is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring South America. Nestled in the driest desert in the world, the namesake Atacama, this charming town offers a unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor activities galore.
Known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, San Pedro de Atacama is a popular base for exploring the surrounding attractions. The town itself has a laid-back vibe with adobe buildings, cobbled streets, and picturesque squares. You’ll find a range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels, providing a comfortable stay for every traveler.
The main allure of San Pedro de Atacama lies in its proximity to breathtaking natural wonders. Take a tour to the Valley of the Moon. Marvel at the pristine waters of the Cejar Lagoon. Bask in the infectious beauty of the Geysers del Tatio. All this and more awaits any visitor to San Pedro. But, the question is, for such a remote location, how does one possibly reach it?
How to get there
9 times out of 8, you’ll be flying into the Atacama desert from Santiago de Chile, even if it’s just a stopover. To reach San Pedro de Atacama from Santiago, there are a few options available. The most popular and convenient way is to take a flight from to the Calama airport, which is the closest airport to San Pedro de Atacama. Several airlines offer direct flights and the journey takes around two hours.
Once you arrive at the Calama airport, there are several transportation options to get to San Pedro de Atacama, which is located about 60 kilometers away. You can either arrange a private transfer, take a shared shuttle, or rent a car. Shared shuttle services are quite affordable and provide a comfortable and convenient way to reach San Pedro de Atacama. The only thing is that you usually need to wait until the shuttle has enough passengers to take off, so it may end up requiring a bit of patience.
Another option is to take a bus from Santiago straight to San Pedro de Atacama. Buses depart from the Santiago bus terminal and the journey takes approximately 20 hours. While it is a longer journey compared to flying, taking a bus allows you to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Chile along the way. It’s a notable option for sure, but for my money, the flight and shuttle is the superior choice. After all, you’ll be seeing a lot of Chile’s natural beauty so why waste so much time getting there. You’d have to be loony! Get it, cuz we’re about to transition to the Valley of the Moon?
Valley of the Moon Tour
The Valley of the Moon Tour in San Pedro de Atacama is one of the must-do experiences of any vacation there. One of the highlights of this tour is witnessing the breathtaking sunset views over the unique, Mars-like landscape. As you explore the valley, you will be mesmerized by the sand dunes and their ever-changing shapes and colors.
Hiking through said sand dunes is an exhilarating adventure in of itself. It offers a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the vast desert. Additionally, the tour guides are knowledgeable and will provide interesting information about the geological formations and the history of the area. You may be wondering why it’s called Valley of the Moon for instance. I won’t spoil it for you. But just in case it’s keeping you up at night, rest assured that the guides got you fam!
Anyways, after that thrilling hike, you can relax with the rest of your tour group and indulge in some local delicacies, including the famous Pisco Sour. Yup, it’s all provided as part of the tour. I was shocked too. Better not to question it but just enjoy the moment. Sharing stories and laughter with new friends in such a picturesque setting is an unforgettable experience.
What to know before you go
Before embarking on the Valley of the Moon tour in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to be aware of the weather conditions in the Atacama Desert. This region is known for its extreme temperatures, ranging from scorching hot during the day to freezing cold at night. It is advisable to dress in layers and bring appropriate gear to protect yourself from the elements.
Additionally, it is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the tour. The desert is one of the driest places on Earth, so make sure to drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunburns. Lastly, be prepared for the challenging terrain of the sand dunes and rock formations. Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as well as clothing that allows for ease of movement. It is recommended to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong desert sun.
Astronomical Tour
The Astronomical Tour in San Pedro de Atacama offers a unique opportunity to observe the night sky in one of the best stargazing locations on the planet. Thanks to its high altitude, dry climate, and minimal light pollution, the Atacama desert provides ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
During the tour, you will have the chance to gaze at the awe-inspiring constellations, planets, and even distant galaxies through cutting-edge telescopes. The knowledgeable guides will use their expertise to provide informative explanations about the celestial objects you’ll observe. After that, once again, the tour blesses it’s guests with glasses of Pisco Sour and other Chilean wines as you stay warm in a nice campfire. Remember the nights be cold af here!
In addition to the breathtaking views of the night sky, the Astronomical Tour is usually combined with the Valley of the Moon tour. In my experience, we did the Valley of the Moon during the day and the Astronomical Tour at night. This allows you to experience two extraordinary natural wonders in one unforgettable trip. The Valley of the Moon, with its lunar-like landscapes and unique rock formations, perfectly complements the mystique of the Astronomical Tour.
One thing to note is that during the Astronomical Tour, everyone takes a turn getting their photos taken with the telescope, stars, and sky. They get you to pose and a professional photographer takes your photo. They say they will send it to you via Google Drive, yet when I received mine the file was corrupted and I couldn’t open it. That’s why there are no actual night photos in this section. So, uh, keep that in mind and like remind them to get it right I guess.
What to Expect
Before you start the Astronomical Tour, there are a few things to know. Firstly, it’s done late at night so be ready for intense coldness. When I was on tour, they handed out blankets just so we could survive sitting down while looking up towards the sky. Even if you think you can handle blistering cold, don’t try to be tough. This is the real deal! The cold in San Pedro de Atacama is on another level and will punish you if you’re not properly prepared for it!
The other important thing to note is that by nature of this being a nighttime tour, visibility is difficult. That’s the whole point of course, to see the stars. Keep this in mind, though, in regards to the type of camera you’re using as you likely won’t be able to get the amazing photos you’d like unless you’re camera is designed for nighttime photography. I know I fell victim to this downside of the tour! So beware! BEWARE!
Cejar Lagoon Tour
Moving on, the Cejar Lagoon Tour in San Pedro de Atacama is another can’t-miss event in San Pedro de Atacama. The lagoon itself is a sheer sight to behold. Its crystal-clear, turquoise waters are surrounded by salt formations, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. As you arrive, you’ll be mesmerized by the contrast between the vibrant blue waters and the arid desert surroundings.
Swimming in the Cejar Lagoon is a one-of-a-kind experience. Due to its high salt concentration, you’ll effortlessly float on the water’s surface, feeling weightless and free. The sensation of swimming in such a unique setting is eery yet surreal in the best way possible. As the sun begins to set, the Cejar Lagoon becomes even more enchanting. The sky is adorned with a multitude of colors, casting a magical glow over the lagoon. It’s the perfect moment to share with your tour group, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
After swimming and enjoying the sunset, it’s time to indulge in a local favorite – Pisco Sour. That’s right! Once again we get free Pisco Sour afforded to us by the tour itself! It’s wonderful. It’s free. And what’s more, it’s flanked by a bevy of snacks this time for good measure. That means that after your eyes have just had the time of their lives, your tastebuds will too!
How to Plan before the tour
When planning your tour to the Cejar Lagoon in San Pedro de Atacama, there are more some things you need to note. Firstly, make sure to check the safety standards and regulations in place. It’s important to adhere to these guidelines for your own well-being. You’ll be swimming in incredibly salty waters, different from your average swimming hole. You may need to remove if possible any jewelry, piercing or other metals that might not jive well with the salt if you know what I mean.
Next, decide on the best time to visit. The lagoon is a popular attraction, so it’s advisable to visit during weekdays or early in the morning to avoid crowds. Additionally, be aware of the weather conditions. It’s essential to bring adequate sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Come prepared with a swimsuit and towel. Remember that the lagoon’s high salt concentration can irritate the skin, so it’s advisable to bring moisturizer or lotion to apply afterward.
Ojos del Salar too
Luckily for you and me, a voyage to the Ojos del Salar is included in your tour to Cejar Lagoon. While we don’t stay as long, it doesn’t diminish from the unmistakable beauty of the destination. The Ojos del Salar includes two massive watering holes in the middle of the dry desert landscape. They look absolutely otherworldly and are all the more worth it for that reason!
During the tour, you have just enough time to walk around them, peruse the area and take selfies to your heart’s content. It may seem like just a little time but well it is… But, uh, still with such stunning scenery you can totally and completely lose yourself in the area and feel at once that five minutes has transformed into five lifetimes!
Thinky think before you do bruh
Before you reach this part of the tour, it is important to know what to expect from the Ojos del Salar. This natural wonder offers mesmerizing landscapes and unique experiences, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you go. Be mindful of the local environment and follow safety standards. Ojos del Salar is an intermediate depression with fragile ecosystems, so it is important to leave no trace and respect the natural surroundings.
That’s about it though. Oh, and more Pisco Sour after! So yeah! Enjoy!
Geysers del Tatio Tour
When embarking on the Geysers del Tatio Tour, you will be captivated by the stunning beauty of this geothermal field. As you traverse the expansive landscape, you sink your teeth into the scenes of erupting geysers, creating a mesmerizing display of steam and hot water. The juxtaposition of the steaming white towers against the battling sky at sunrise is to die for. But, uh, please no dying…
The tour begins with an invigorating walk through the geothermal field, allowing you to get up close and personal with the geysers and witness their powerful eruptions. The knowledgeable guides will provide fascinating insights into the geology and history of the area, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this unique natural phenomenon. He speaks a bunch of languages too!
Aside from the geysers, the surrounding environment is awe-inspiring. The pristine Andean landscapes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and expansive plains, create a sense of tranquility and grandeur. The sheer scale of the scenery is breathtaking, and you may even spot some wildlife, such as vicuñas or flamingos, adding to the enchantment of the journey.
Included in the tour is a delicious breakfast served amidst this wonderland. As you savor your meal, surrounded by the captivating geothermal activity, you will truly feel at one with nature. The combination of the spectacular geysers, the picturesque surroundings, and the satisfying breakfast make the Geysers del Tatio Tour an unforgettable experience.
Other words for the future
There is literally just one thing I need to note when it comes to visiting the Geysers del Tatio. You will do it at 4 am! It will be cold! Colder than the Astronomical Tour! So cold you could metamorph into a penguin if you’re not careful! That’s it guys. Plan accordingly. Dress warm. Warmer than you ever have before!
Machuca too
After the geothermal wonders of Tatio and the nice breaky, the charming village of Machuca beckons. This tranquil oasis is known for its quaint beauty, rustic charm, and the chance to savor a local delicacy – llama meat. For those who are curious and adventurous in their culinary pursuits, Machuca offers a fascinating opportunity to try this traditional dish.
Explore Machuca’s winding streets, admire its adobe houses, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of this hidden gem. The llama meat isn’t everything. There’s a cute hilltop church to appreciate from the top of the town. And, the surrounding views of the desert and hills make the climb even more rewarding. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Machuca is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Yeah yeah you get it
Have you caught onto the fact that I don’t know what to put in these sections yet? This is supposed to be the before you go part. But Machuca is attached to the Geysers tour so you’ve already prepared. Just note that at this point, it’s daytime, probably hotter. You can remove a layer or two as you see fit. Also, it’s dry. The air is too. You gone breath it so like, you should know that I guess. I don’t know man.
Conclusion
In conclusion, San Pedro de Atacama offers a multitude of enchanting tours for travelers to explore and enjoy. From the mesmerizing Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to the stunning Cejar Lagoon and the geothermal wonders of the Tatio Geysers, there is something for everyone in this enchanting region.
I am not even the most tour-obsessed traveler out there but for this, I make an exception. There are a lot of hikes you can do by yourself in San Pedro. But, for the unrivaled, ultimate experience, nothing beats these tours. For this special destination, they are certainly worth the sacrifice to your wallet!
Ensuring safety standards and providing informative guides, San Pedro de Atacama is accessible to all types of travelers. With its awe-inspiring natural wonders and vibrant cultural offerings, this destination in northern Chile is a must-visit in South America. Discover the magic of San Pedro de Atacama and create magical memories of your journey. And, you know, get drunk while you’re at it. The Pisco Sour is free…
