Atacama Desert Tours
The Empire of Stars
Our recommended Atacama Desert tours feature the natural highlights of the driest desert on Earth.
Giant dunes, jagged canyons, enormous salt flats, and boiling geysers, not to mention a smoking volcano… For a complete adventure, explore more with our Chile tours and discover even more breathtaking landscapes
Yes, all the explorations to the Atacama main destinations can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re planning Atacama Desert tours in summer or winter, the region’s stunning landscapes and unique experiences are available for visitors throughout the year.
The Atacama Desert is renowned as the driest non-polar desert on Earth. This ecoregion is rich in metallic minerals, such as copper (Chile is the largest producer in the world), iron, gold, and silver, as well as non-metallic resources like boron, lithium, sodium nitrate, and potassium salts. It’s a highlight of any Atacama Desert trip.
The Atacama region is characterized by a semi-arid climate. Temperatures fluctuate significantly, with nighttime lows that can drop to -25°C and daytime highs ranging between 25°C and 50°C. These conditions are consistent throughout the year, making it important to be prepared for varying temperatures during your Atacama Desert trip.
Yes, altitude sickness is a possibility in the Atacama Desert. It is recommended to eat light meals, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. To minimize the risk, start with quieter activities on the first days and save the more demanding Atacama tours for the later part of your trip.
Absolutely! The Atacama Desert is considered one of the best places on the planet for stargazing and astronomy. Its high altitude, low cloud cover, low humidity, and minimal light pollution make it perfect for observing the night sky. Many Atacama Desert tours include stargazing experiences.
Pack comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor activities. It’s recommended to dress in layers due to the significant thermal variation. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential. When preparing for Atacama tours, consider bringing gear for both cold nights and hot days.
What to See on an Atacama Desert Tour?
Outside of the North and South Poles, the Atacama Desert is the driest in the world. Departing from the desert town of San Pedro de Atacama—a small city of little adobe houses, unpaved streets, and cozy restaurants—vast salt flats, active geysers, and intense blue lagoons await travelers. Atacama Desert tours offer a unique opportunity to explore these otherworldly landscapes, where the stark beauty of the desert meets dramatic natural features.
Perhaps the most amazing attraction on an Atacama Desert trip can be experienced at night. Given the desert’s remote location and lack of artificial light, this is one of the most incredible places for stargazing. With its crystal-clear skies, no light pollution, and over 300 cloud-free days a year, it’s no surprise that San Pedro de Atacama is a must-visit destination for stargazing enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on any of these Atacama Desert tours.
In addition to stargazing, the Atacama Desert is also known for its unique geological formations, such as the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) and the Valle de la Muerte (Valley of Death), which resemble lunar landscapes. The region is rich in cultural heritage, with ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites that tell the stories of the indigenous peoples who once inhabited the area. For those interested in exploring more of Chile’s natural wonders, consider extending your adventure with Torres del Paine Tours, where you can experience the dramatic beauty of Patagonia.
Destinations to Combine With Tours to the Atacama Desert
Santiago de Chile
Since colonial times, Santiago, founded in 1541 by the Spanish adventurer Pedro de Valdivia, has served as Chile’s capital. It’s located in the Central Valley and it features an amazing mixture of art deco and neo-gothic architecture with fantastic views of the Andes Mountain Range. Some of the attractions of Santiago are art collections of pre-Columbian and contemporary art, local markets, and beautiful parks like Cerro Santa Lucía.
Northern Argentina
Northern Argentina is known as a region of contrasts since it features historic plazas, red mountains, and green oases. Indigenous culture may still be found in the traditions and folklore of this region, which was once part of the Inca Kingdom. Salta is the starting point for exploring Northern Argentina. Visit the Calchaquíes Valley and the city of Cafayate, the hometown of Torrontés wine. Take some days to explore the province of Jujuy, located at north of Salta, which features the Humahuca Gorge, declared World Heritage by UNESCO, and the Great Salt Flats,
Uyuni Salt Flats
Located in Bolivia, Uyuni Salt Flats are considered one of the most extreme in South America. Stretching more than 4,050 square miles of the Altiplano, it is the world’s largest salt flat, left behind by prehistoric lakes that evaporated long ago. Visiting Uyuni is different from anything you might have experienced before. The biggest Salt Flats in South America offer wide wildlife experiences that include pink flamingos living in the highest lake on Earth and guanacos herding in a backdrop of colossal volcanos.
Torres del Paine
Established in 1959, Torres del Paine National Park features Lakes, glaciers, and hiking paths in its 227.298 hectares of land. Paine means “blue” in the local Tehuelche language, while Torres means “towers.” Its first inhabitants, the Tehuelches, were a native community of skilled hunters that only survives today in Argentina. Explore the “W” trek, Patagonia’s most famous hiking route, and live a multi-day experience in the wild. The “Torres del Paine” name refers to the three distinctive granite peaks of the Paine Mountain Range that soar more than 6,500 feet (nearly 2,000 meters) into the sky.
Discover the Wonders of the Atacama Desert
Gateway to Chile’s Breathtaking Landscapes
Gateway to Chile’s Breathtaking Landscapes
The Atacama Desert is an essential destination for anyone visiting northern Chile. This unique desert offers a range of experiences for all kinds of travelers, from adventure seekers to those looking for peaceful solitude. Whether you’re planning a Buenos Aires trip and looking to extend your journey, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Atacama Desert tours provide breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a deep connection to nature. Our guided excursions are tailored to your preferences, allowing you to explore the desert’s wonders at your own pace.
Thrilling Activities and Adventures
Thrilling Activities and Adventures
Atacama Desert trips offer a variety of activities for every type of traveler. For those who enjoy hiking, the desert features trails through stunning salt flats, dramatic valleys, and unique rock formations like the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon). You can also experience the thrill of exploring active geysers or taking a boat trip across the intense blue lagoons. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot flamingos in the salt flats or explore the diverse flora and fauna unique to this arid region. If you’re combining your desert adventure with a broader Chile tour, these experiences will add a memorable touch to your trip.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
Cultural and Educational Experiences
In addition to its natural beauty, the Atacama Desert is rich in cultural history. Atacama Desert tours offer opportunities to learn about the indigenous cultures that have inhabited this region for centuries. Our expert guides provide insights into the ancient petroglyphs, archaeological sites, and the traditions of the Atacameño people. These tours also highlight the region’s geological history, including the formation of its unique landscapes and ongoing conservation efforts. Consider extending your exploration to Chilean Patagonia for a more comprehensive understanding of Chile’s diverse ecosystems.
The Charm of San Pedro de Atacama
The Charm of San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is more than just a starting point for desert explorations; it’s a charming town with a rich cultural heritage. Wander through its adobe streets and discover local artisan shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Chilean dishes. This town offers a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of adventures. If you’re continuing your journey, perhaps as part of a larger Buenos Aires excursion, San Pedro de Atacama provides a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery in one of the most unique environments in the world.
Gateway to Chile’s Breathtaking Landscapes
The Atacama Desert is an essential destination for anyone visiting northern Chile. This unique desert offers a range of experiences for all kinds of travelers, from adventure seekers to those looking for peaceful solitude. Whether you’re planning a Buenos Aires trip and looking to extend your journey, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Atacama Desert tours provide breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a deep connection to nature. Our guided excursions are tailored to your preferences, allowing you to explore the desert’s wonders at your own pace.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
In addition to its natural beauty, the Atacama Desert is rich in cultural history. Atacama Desert tours offer opportunities to learn about the indigenous cultures that have inhabited this region for centuries. Our expert guides provide insights into the ancient petroglyphs, archaeological sites, and the traditions of the Atacameño people. These tours also highlight the region’s geological history, including the formation of its unique landscapes and ongoing conservation efforts. Consider extending your exploration to Chilean Patagonia for a more comprehensive understanding of Chile’s diverse ecosystems.
Thrilling Activities and Adventures
Atacama Desert trips offer a variety of activities for every type of traveler. For those who enjoy hiking, the desert features trails through stunning salt flats, dramatic valleys, and unique rock formations like the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon). You can also experience the thrill of exploring active geysers or taking a boat trip across the intense blue lagoons. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot flamingos in the salt flats or explore the diverse flora and fauna unique to this arid region. If you’re combining your desert adventure with a broader Chile tour, these experiences will add a memorable touch to your trip.
The Charm of San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is more than just a starting point for desert explorations; it’s a charming town with a rich cultural heritage. Wander through its adobe streets and discover local artisan shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Chilean dishes. This town offers a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of adventures. If you’re continuing your journey, perhaps as part of a larger Buenos Aires excursion, San Pedro de Atacama provides a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery in one of the most unique environments in the world.
In these hand-picked articles from our Travel blog you will find useful information for your next trip
Related Travel Guides
More Trips in South America
