The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, offering a unique travel experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a cultural enthusiast, this desert in northern Chile has something for everyone. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting—from quick facts and costs to safety tips and the best activities for all ages.
Quick Facts About the Atacama Desert
- Location: Northern Chile, stretching over 1,000 kilometers along the Pacific coast.
- Climate: Extremely dry with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and cold nights.
- Elevation: Varies from sea level to over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) in some areas.
- Language: Spanish is the official language.
- Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP).
Cost to Visit the Atacama Desert
Traveling to the Atacama Desert can fit various budgets. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Flights: Round-trip flights to Calama (nearest airport) from Santiago range between $100 and $300 depending on the season.
- Accommodation: Hostels start at $15 per night, mid-range hotels cost $50–$100, and luxury lodges can exceed $200.
- Food: Meals at local restaurants typically cost $5–$15.
- Tours and activities: Expect to pay $30–$100 for guided tours such as salt flats, geysers, and stargazing.
- Transportation: Renting a car costs around $40–$70 per day; buses and shuttles are cheaper alternatives.
Best Time to Visit the Atacama Desert
The desert is visitable year-round, but the best months are March to May and September to November. During these months:
- Temperatures are milder.
- Skies are clearer for stargazing.
- Tourist crowds are smaller than in peak summer (December to February).
Winter months (June to August) can be cold, especially at night, while summer can be hot during the day.
Natural Disasters in the Atacama Desert
The Atacama region is generally stable but has some natural risks:
- Earthquakes: Chile is seismically active, so mild to moderate earthquakes can occur.
- Flash floods: Rare but possible during unusual rain events, especially in valleys.
- Volcanic activity: Some volcanoes in the area are active; check local alerts before visiting.
Travelers should stay informed through local news and follow safety instructions.
Wildlife in the Atacama Desert
Despite its harsh conditions, the desert hosts unique wildlife:
- Vicuñas and guanacos (wild camelids) roam the high plains.
- Flamingos inhabit salt flats and lagoons.
- Lizards and insects adapted to arid environments.
- Various bird species including Andean condors.
Wildlife viewing is best during early morning or late afternoon.
Crime Rate and Safety
The Atacama Desert is considered safe for tourists. Crime rates are low compared to urban centers. Still, basic precautions apply:
- Avoid leaving valuables unattended.
- Use registered taxis or transportation.
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations.
- Inform someone about your travel plans when going on remote tours.
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 133
- Fire Department: 132
- Ambulance: 131
- Tourist Police: 137
Keep these numbers handy and save local contacts from your accommodation.
Tribes of the Atacama Desert
Atacameño (Likan Antai)
The Atacameño people, also known as the Likan Antai, are the primary Indigenous inhabitants of the Atacama Desert. They have lived in the region for thousands of years and developed advanced methods to survive the extreme arid environment, including sophisticated irrigation canals and terrace farming. Traditionally, they cultivated crops such as corn and quinoa and raised llamas and alpacas. Today, many Atacameño communities continue to preserve their culture, language, and traditions in towns like San Pedro de Atacama.
Aymara
The Aymara people live mainly in the high-altitude Andes along the eastern edge of the Atacama Desert. They are known for their expertise in highland agriculture, textile weaving, and strong communal organization. Aymara culture extends across Chile, Bolivia, and Peru, and many traditional customs, festivals, and the Aymara language are still actively practiced today.
Changos (Camanchacos)
The Changos, also known as Camanchacos, were coastal Indigenous people who lived along the Pacific shoreline near the Atacama Desert. Their way of life was closely tied to the ocean, relying on fishing, shellfish gathering, and sea lion hunting for survival. They were especially known for using rafts made from sea lion skins. Although colonization greatly reduced their population and traditions, modern efforts are helping revive and recognize their cultural heritage.
Tiwanaku Influence
The Tiwanaku civilization was not native to the Atacama Desert but had a significant cultural and religious influence on the region between approximately 500 and 1000 CE. Through trade networks and shared spiritual practices, Tiwanaku ideas spread into Atacama communities, influencing art, architecture, and belief systems and leaving an important archaeological legacy in the region.
Towns and Cities to Explore
San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is the main tourist hub of the Atacama Desert and the base for most visitors exploring the region. This small but lively town is filled with boutique hotels, hostels, cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops, along with numerous tour operators offering excursions to geysers, salt flats, lagoons, volcanoes, and astronomical observatories. Despite its popularity, San Pedro has retained much of its traditional adobe architecture and relaxed atmosphere, making it both a cultural center and a convenient starting point for desert adventures.
Calama
Calama is the nearest major city to San Pedro de Atacama and serves as the region’s primary transportation and logistics hub. It is home to El Loa Airport, which connects the Atacama Desert to major Chilean cities, making it an essential gateway for travelers. Calama is more industrial in character due to its close ties to copper mining, but it offers practical amenities such as larger hotels, shopping centers, banks, and services that support both tourism and local industries.
Toconao
Toconao is a small traditional village located south of San Pedro de Atacama, known for its distinctive architecture made from local volcanic stone called liparite. The village is famous for its historic stone church and bell tower, as well as for handicrafts made from volcanic rock and cactus wood. Toconao provides a quieter, more authentic atmosphere and serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like the Salar de Atacama and surrounding high-altitude lagoons.
Machuca
Machuca is a tiny high-altitude hamlet that offers a glimpse into traditional desert and Andean life. With only a few adobe houses and a small church, the village reflects a slower pace of living centered on herding llamas and alpacas. Visitors often stop in Machuca on the way to the El Tatio Geysers, enjoying the peaceful setting, local food, and a rare look at daily life in one of the Atacama Desert’s most remote communities.
Where to Stay in Atacama Desert
Options range from budget hostels to luxury eco-lodges:
Hostels
Hostels in San Pedro de Atacama are a popular option for budget travelers and backpackers looking for affordability and a social atmosphere. Hostal Campo Base is well known for its relaxed environment, friendly staff, and assistance with booking tours and activities. La Casa de Don Tomas offers comfortable rooms, communal spaces, and a welcoming vibe, making it a good choice for travelers who want a balance between low cost and convenience while staying close to the town center.
Mid-Range Hotels
Mid-range hotels in the Atacama Desert provide a comfortable and stylish stay without the high price tag of luxury lodges. Hotel Cumbres San Pedro combines modern amenities with desert-inspired architecture and features on-site dining and easy access to local excursions. Altiplanico is admired for its elegant adobe-style design, peaceful setting, and well-appointed rooms, appealing to couples and travelers who value comfort and atmosphere.
Luxury Lodges
Luxury lodges offer an all-inclusive, high-end experience designed for travelers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and guided exploration. Tierra Atacama and Explora Atacama are among the most prestigious properties in the region, providing curated excursions, fine dining, spa services, and breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. These lodges focus on immersive experiences, blending luxury with nature and cultural discovery.
Booking Tips
Due to the Atacama Desert’s popularity as a travel destination, booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Availability can be limited, and sought-after hostels, hotels, and luxury lodges often fill up quickly, so early planning helps secure the best options and rates.
Where to Eat
San Pedro de Atacama offers a variety of dining choices:
Popular Restaurants
Café Adobe
Adobe is one of the most famous restaurants in San Pedro de Atacama, serving traditional Chilean dishes with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy cazuela, grilled meats, and regional specialties in a charming adobe-style building. The restaurant features both cozy indoor seating and a relaxed outdoor terrace, providing a warm, authentic desert dining experience.
La Estaka
La Estaka is renowned for its expertly grilled meats, including lamb, beef, and even llama, as well as creative fusion dishes that combine local ingredients with international flavors. The rustic decor and attentive service make it a favorite for travelers seeking both flavor and ambiance.
El Toconar
El Toconar offers a casual and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying hearty Chilean meals, homemade empanadas, and comforting soups. Its central location in town makes it an ideal stop after a day exploring the desert.
Street Food & Casual Options
Empanadas and Pastries
Street vendors and small cafés throughout San Pedro sell freshly baked empanadas filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, as well as sweet pastries perfect for a quick snack while exploring the town.
Churros and Tamales
Locally made churros and tamales are popular treats, often prepared using traditional recipes and regional ingredients, offering an authentic taste of the Atacama.
Fresh Fruit Juices and Local Snacks
Vendors and markets offer fresh fruit juices, roasted corn, and other homemade snacks made from locally sourced ingredients. These options are convenient for travelers who want a quick, affordable taste of local cuisine while on the go.
Top Attractions in the Atacama Desert
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
Valle de la Luna, or Moon Valley, is one of the Atacama Desert’s most iconic landscapes, named for its otherworldly resemblance to the surface of the moon. The valley features dramatic rock formations, jagged cliffs, and vast sand dunes, shaped over millions of years by wind and erosion. Visitors can also explore salt caves and dry riverbeds, which add to the surreal atmosphere. The area is particularly popular at sunset, when the rocks and dunes are bathed in golden and reddish hues, creating a stunning natural light show that is perfect for photography and hiking. Guided tours often include explanations of the valley’s geological history and its cultural significance to local Indigenous communities.
El Tatio Geysers
The El Tatio Geysers are among the highest-altitude geyser fields in the world, situated at over 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level. This geothermal field contains dozens of steaming geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles, which create a dramatic landscape, especially at sunrise when the cold desert air contrasts with the rising steam. Visitors often arrive very early in the morning to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon, and guided tours explain the geysers’ geothermal activity as well as local legends associated with the site. The surrounding area also provides opportunities to spot wildlife such as vicuñas and flamingos in nearby lagoons.
Salar de Atacama
The Salar de Atacama is the largest salt flat in Chile and one of the most impressive natural features of the region. Stretching over hundreds of square kilometers, it is home to several lagoons where flocks of flamingos gather, creating a striking contrast against the white salt and blue skies. Visitors can explore the area on guided tours to learn about the delicate ecosystem, lithium mining operations, and birdlife. The vast open landscape offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Laguna Cejar
Laguna Cejar is a stunning saltwater lagoon famous for its high salinity, which allows visitors to float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea. The surrounding desert scenery, with volcanic mountains and clear skies, makes it a picturesque location for swimming, photography, or simply relaxing. Some tours combine visits to Laguna Cejar with nearby lagoons such as Ojos del Salar, giving travelers a chance to experience multiple saltwater bodies and their unique natural features in one trip.
Pukará de Quitor
The Pukará de Quitor is an ancient fortress located just outside San Pedro de Atacama, built by the Atacameño people around the 12th century. This well-preserved archaeological site offers visitors a glimpse into pre-Columbian defensive architecture, with terraces, walls, and strategic positions overlooking the San Pedro Valley. Hiking up to the fortress provides panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains, while interpretive signs explain the historical and cultural significance of the site, including its role in resisting Inca expansion and preserving local traditions.
Best Things to Do in Atacama Desert
Stargazing Tours
The Atacama Desert is famous worldwide for its exceptionally clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. Numerous tour operators offer guided astronomy experiences, complete with telescopes and expert explanations of stars, planets, constellations, and distant galaxies. Many tours are held at observatories or remote desert locations, where the Milky Way appears in vivid detail, and visitors can even spot planets, nebulae, and meteor showers. For astronomy enthusiasts and casual travelers alike, a stargazing tour in the Atacama is a truly unforgettable experience that highlights the desert’s unique celestial beauty.
Hiking in Valle de la Luna and Surrounding Canyons
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the Atacama Desert’s dramatic landscapes. Valle de la Luna offers trails through jagged rock formations, sand dunes, and salt caves, allowing visitors to experience the valley’s lunar-like terrain up close. Surrounding canyons, such as Quebrada de Jerez or Garganta del Diablo, provide opportunities for longer treks, breathtaking viewpoints, and encounters with unique desert flora and fauna. Hiking tours often include sunrise or sunset excursions, where the desert’s colors transform dramatically, offering stunning photography opportunities and a deeper connection with the natural environment.
Visiting Hot Springs
The Atacama Desert is home to several natural hot springs, which are perfect for relaxation after a day of desert exploration. Puritama Hot Springs is the most famous, featuring a series of cascading thermal pools set amid red-rock canyons. The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits, and the serene surroundings make it an ideal place to unwind. Many tours combine hot spring visits with nearby desert excursions, allowing travelers to experience both adventure and relaxation in one trip.
Mountain Biking on Desert Trails
For adventure enthusiasts, the Atacama Desert offers excellent mountain biking opportunities. Trails wind through sand dunes, rocky paths, and high-altitude valleys, providing both challenging terrain and spectacular scenery. Rentals and guided tours are available for riders of all levels, and biking is a unique way to explore areas that may be difficult to reach on foot or by car. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy panoramic views of volcanoes, salt flats, and remote desert landscapes, making it both an exciting and visually rewarding experience.
Exploring Archaeological Sites
The Atacama Desert is rich in archaeological treasures that reflect thousands of years of human history. Sites such as Pukará de Quitor, ancient petroglyphs, and burial grounds offer insight into the lives of the Atacameño people and other pre-Columbian cultures. Guided tours often provide historical context, explaining how these communities adapted to the harsh desert environment, built defensive structures, and left behind cultural artifacts. Exploring these sites allows visitors to connect with the region’s past while enjoying stunning desert landscapes.
Best Teen Adventures in Atacama Desert
Sandboarding on Dunes near Valle de la Muerte
For adventure seekers, sandboarding on the dunes near Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) is a thrilling experience. The towering sand dunes provide the perfect slopes for sliding down on boards, combining the excitement of snowboarding with the unique challenge of desert sand. Many local tour operators offer beginner-friendly lessons as well as equipment rentals, making it accessible even for first-timers. Beyond the adrenaline rush, the area offers breathtaking desert scenery, including dramatic rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, making it a favorite activity for both adventure enthusiasts and photographers.
Horseback Riding through Desert Landscapes
Horseback riding is a memorable way to explore the Atacama Desert’s vast, rugged landscapes at a more relaxed pace. Tours often take visitors through valleys, along salt flats, and near volcanic foothills, allowing them to experience the desert from a unique perspective. Local guides provide insights into the region’s geology, flora, and fauna, while riders can enjoy stunning views of sunrises, sunsets, and star-filled skies. Horseback riding also offers a connection to the desert’s traditional culture, as horses have long been an integral part of life in this region.
Nighttime Astronomy Workshops
In addition to stargazing tours, the Atacama Desert is famous for nighttime astronomy workshops that offer a more in-depth, hands-on experience. These workshops often take place at observatories or remote desert locations and are led by professional astronomers who explain the movements of stars, planets, and constellations in detail. Participants may use high-powered telescopes and other equipment to observe planets, galaxies, and nebulae, while also learning about the desert’s astronomical history and its importance for global research. These workshops provide an educational and awe-inspiring experience for both beginners and serious astronomy enthusiasts.
Zip-lining and Adventure Parks near San Pedro
For thrill-seekers and families, zip-lining and adventure parks near San Pedro de Atacama provide exciting opportunities for outdoor fun. These parks feature activities like zip lines, rope courses, and climbing walls, set against the dramatic backdrop of desert landscapes and volcanic mountains. The combination of adventure and scenery makes for a unique experience that blends physical activity with the natural beauty of the Atacama. Many adventure operators also offer tailored experiences for different skill levels, making it a great option for travelers seeking an adrenaline-filled day in the desert.
Best Kids Adventures
Visiting the Flamingo Reserve at Chaxa Lagoon
The Chaxa Lagoon, located within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, is one of the best places to observe flamingos and other desert wildlife in their natural habitat. The lagoon is surrounded by vast salt flats and desert landscapes, creating a stark yet beautiful backdrop for birdwatching and photography. Guided tours often include explanations of the flamingos’ behavior, migration patterns, and the delicate ecosystem of the salt flats. Visitors can also spot other wildlife such as Andean geese and rare desert plants, making the visit both educational and visually stunning. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to see the flamingos feeding and moving in groups, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Exploring the Interactive Museo del Meteorito
The Museo del Meteorito in San Pedro de Atacama is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in space, geology, and astronomy. The museum features a hands-on, interactive collection of meteorites from Chile and around the world, as well as exhibits explaining the formation of the solar system, planetary geology, and the science behind meteorite impacts. Visitors can touch some of the specimens, watch demonstrations, and learn about the desert’s unique history of meteorite discoveries. This museum is suitable for all ages and provides a fun, educational experience that complements stargazing tours and other astronomical activities in the region.
Short, Guided Hikes with Educational Focus
The Atacama Desert offers a variety of short, guided hikes that are perfect for travelers interested in learning about the region’s geology, ecology, and history without committing to long or strenuous treks. Experienced guides take visitors through scenic valleys, salt flats, and rock formations, explaining the processes that shaped the desert over millions of years. These hikes often highlight unique flora and fauna, traditional practices of Indigenous communities, and notable archaeological sites along the route. Educational hikes are ideal for families, school groups, and curious travelers who want a deeper understanding of the Atacama beyond just its breathtaking landscapes.
Family-Friendly Stargazing Sessions
The Atacama Desert is a prime destination for stargazing, and many operators offer family-friendly astronomy sessions designed to engage children and adults alike. These sessions often include telescopes, interactive explanations of constellations and planets, and fun activities that make learning about the night sky exciting for all ages. Families can enjoy spotting planets, observing the Milky Way, and learning about celestial phenomena in one of the clearest skies on Earth. Evening sessions are carefully timed to maximize visibility, ensuring that both kids and adults have a memorable and educational experience under the desert stars.
What to Wear
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime.
- Warm layers for cold nights.
- Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Comfortable hiking shoes.
- A light rain jacket for unexpected showers.
Travel Tips
- Acclimate to altitude gradually to avoid sickness.
- Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Book tours through reputable operators.
- Respect the fragile environment and local culture.
- Use cash in smaller towns; ATMs may be limited.
Ways to Save Money
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses.
- Eat at local markets or small eateries.
- Use public transport or shared shuttles.
- Book tours in packages or during off-peak times.
- Travel with a group to split costs.
Discover the Wonders of the Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is a land of contrasts, where otherworldly landscapes, ancient cultures, and thrilling adventures come together in one unforgettable destination. From exploring salt flats and geysers to hiking through valleys, stargazing under some of the clearest skies on Earth, and experiencing the rich heritage of local Indigenous communities, there is something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, peaceful moments in nature, or educational encounters with history and science, the Atacama offers a unique journey that leaves a lasting impression. A visit here is more than just a trip—it’s an immersive adventure into one of the world’s most extraordinary deserts.
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