5 Day Atacama Desert Explorations

Flamingos and Salt Crusts of Salar de Atacama

This morning, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set off to explore the striking landscapes surrounding San Pedro de Atacama. About 10 km (6 miles) south of town, you’ll arrive at Salar de Atacama, Chile’s largest salt flat, covering an area of 3,000 square km (1,158 square miles). Unlike smooth salt flats, this rugged terrain, formed by evaporated saltwater from the Andes, is a jagged expanse that resembles coral.

At Laguna Chaxa, a vibrant, salty lagoon in the heart of the salt flat, you'll witness three species of flamingos in their natural habitat. The lagoon’s shimmering surface reflects the wide-open desert sky, offering breathtaking views of both the wildlife and the dramatic landscape. After soaking in the natural beauty and wildlife of this unique region, return to San Pedro.

Moon Valley: A Journey Through Otherworldly Landscapes

Join your guide for a journey to the Salt Mountain Range, located just 10 miles from San Pedro de Atacama. Your destination is Moon Valley, a protected nature sanctuary known for its surreal, moon-like landscapes. The valley, a depression surrounded by jagged peaks, was shaped millions of years ago by tectonic movements that lifted the Andes, leaving behind extraordinary rock formations and vertical layers of sediment.

This unique environment is made up of salt hills, gypsum, and clay, forming dazzling white salt blankets and colorful slopes that change shades as the sun moves across the sky. The mineral-rich terrain is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant greens, blues, reds, and yellows. After exploring this otherworldly landscape, return to your hotel.

Volcanic Reflections: Lagoons of the High Andes

Begin your day with a journey to the Salar de Atacama (Salt Lake), home to stunning high-altitude lagoons. The highlight of this tour is a visit to the striking Miscanti and Miñique lagoons, whose crystalline blue waters are surrounded by towering volcanoes. These serene lagoons, located over 4,000 meters above sea level, provide habitat for various bird species, including Chilean flamingos, parinas, and the horned coot.

The pristine beauty of the landscape, with its pastel-colored backdrop and shimmering lagoons, offers unforgettable photo opportunities. On the return trip, visit the small town of Toconao, where you’ll explore traditional Andean crafts made from llama wool, cactus wood, and volcanic rock, and visit the historic San Lucas Tower, a National Monument. After an enriching day in the altiplano, return to your hotel.

Altiplano Exploration: Geysers del Tatio & Machuca Village

Start your day early as you meet your guide in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on a journey into the stunning altiplano region. Alongside fellow adventurers, set out to explore the natural and cultural wonders that surround San Pedro de Atacama.

Your adventure begins at dawn, arriving at one of the most remarkable geothermal fields in the world—the Geysers del Tatio. As the sun rises, witness the incredible sight of water and steam erupting from the ground, painting the landscape in a surreal, otherworldly glow. While marveling at the beauty of the Andes, enjoy a delicious breakfast in this breathtaking natural setting.

Afterward, continue to the Rustic Pozón for a unique opportunity to experience the soothing thermal waters firsthand. As we make our way back to San Pedro, the journey offers stunning views of the region’s vibrant landscapes, showcasing native flora and fauna unique to the high desert.

Our next stop is the village of Machuca, a quaint settlement once home to llama herders. Today, this picturesque village, with its adobe houses, straw roofs, and cactus wood structures, is known for its artisanal Andean crafts and local delicacies such as llama meat, sopaipillas, and empanadas. A visit to the historic Church of San Santiago, the village’s patron saint, offers a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.

After immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty and cultural traditions, return to San Pedro with memories of an unforgettable day in the heart of the altiplano. (This service is on a group basis.)

After checking out of your accommodation, meet your private driver who will transfer you to the Calama airport for your departing flight.