San Pedro de Atacama, Chile2-3 daySpring
Atacama Desert
Ideal: Ideal for desert landscapes, astronomy, photography, adventure, and exploring the world's driest region.
Atacama Desert lies in northern Chile and is considered the driest desert on earth. Based around the town of San Pedro de Atacama, this destination offers Valle de la Luna's lunar landscapes, El Tatio geysers, salt flats, lagoons, and some of the clearest skies in the world for stargazing. Against a backdrop of the Andes, red rock formations, flamingos, and Atacameño indigenous culture make Atacama one of Chile's most surreal and photogenic routes.
Quick facts
- Area
- 181,300 km²
- Elevation
- 2,657 m
Facts from Wikidata, photos from Wikimedia Commons.
Why go?
- Experience Valle de la Luna and desert scenery that feels like the moon's surface
- Visit El Tatio geysers at sunrise and stargaze under a clear night sky
- Build a unique desert route with flamingo lagoons, salt flats, and Andes views
Travel tip
Rest on day one due to high altitude (2,400m+); wake early for sunrise tours. Sunscreen and plenty of water are essential.
