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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Atacama Desert

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Valle de la Luna

Explore stunning lunar-like landscapes and rock formations.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stargazing at ALMA Observatory

Witness breathtaking views of the cosmos at this observatory.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in the Puritama Hot Springs

Soak in natural thermal pools surrounded by beauty.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore San Pedro de Atacama

Discover the charming town and its rich culture.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Salar de Atacama

Marvel at the vast salt flats and unique wildlife.

No booking required
6

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

See the El Tatio Geysers

Watch impressive geothermal geysers at sunrise.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Laguna Cejar

Swim in salt lagoons with stunning views.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Atacama Desert by bike

Ride through diverse landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventure.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Pukará de Quitor

Explore ancient ruins with rich history.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go sandboarding in the dunes

Experience thrilling adventures on the sand dunes.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Church of San Pedro

Admire the historic adobe church in the town center.

No booking required
12

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Atacama Desert Photography Tour

Capture stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Booking required
13

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the altiplanic lagoons

Visit colorful lagoons with breathtaking mountain views.

Booking required

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)