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Atacama Desert

Chile, South America

The Atacama Desert, known as the driest non-polar desert in the world, captivates visitors with its surreal landscapes, salt flats, and vibrant sunsets. Explore the Valle de la Luna, relax in natural hot springs, or gaze at the stars in one of the clearest night skies on Earth. Its unique flora and fauna offer insights into life in extreme conditions, making it a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Desert

Vibe

Active

Airport

Cerro Moreno

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Atacama Desert

1. Visit Valle de la Luna

Explore stunning lunar-like landscapes and rock formations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Stargazing at ALMA Observatory

Witness breathtaking views of the cosmos at this observatory.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

3. Relax in the Puritama Hot Springs

Soak in natural thermal pools surrounded by beauty.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Explore San Pedro de Atacama

Discover the charming town and its rich culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

5. Visit the Salar de Atacama

Marvel at the vast salt flats and unique wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

6. See the El Tatio Geysers

Watch impressive geothermal geysers at sunrise.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

7. Visit the Laguna Cejar

Swim in salt lagoons with stunning views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

8. Tour the Atacama Desert by bike

Ride through diverse landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventure.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

9. Visit the Pukará de Quitor

Explore ancient ruins with rich history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Go sandboarding in the dunes

Experience thrilling adventures on the sand dunes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

11. Visit the Church of San Pedro

Admire the historic adobe church in the town center.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Explore the Atacama Desert Photography Tour

Capture stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

4 hrs

13. Discover the altiplanic lagoons

Visit colorful lagoons with breathtaking mountain views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Chilean Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curanto

Traditional seafood and meat stew. (National dish)

Empanadas

V

Stuffed pastry with various fillings.

Pastel de Choclo

Corn pie with meat and vegetables.

Cazuela

Hearty meat and vegetable soup.

Completo

Chilean hot dog with toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)