Known as the driest non-polar place in the world, the Atacama desert is a must see

Geyser at El Tatio in Chile's Atacama Desert | Richard I'Anson

There is plenty of wildlife in Atacama

Magical sunrise at the thermal pools in the Atacama Desert | Joy Murray

Scattered across the landscape and rising like monoliths through the clouds, multiple volcanos can be spotted looking across the Atacama Desert

The lunar landscape of the Atacama Desert, Chile | Natasha Worm

Llamas and Flamingos in the Atacama Desert | Caroline Mongrain

Atacama Adventure

Explore the driest non-polar desert in the world from San Pedro de Atacama, where golden sands meet majestic Andean peaks

4 Days from

$1690 USD

Trip Code: ATD

View dates to Book Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Atacama Adventure - single supplement

$180 USD

Atacama Adventure - solo traveller supplement

$1250 USD

Duration

4 Days

Activities

4 days adventure touring

Accommodation

3 nights lodge/hotel

Meals

Valued at USD$170

3 Dinners
3 Lunches
3 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint

38kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(115kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Marvel at the unique 'out of this world' landscape of the Atacama Desert
Enjoy a spectacular excursion to the Valley of the Moon
Spend a night under the stars exploring this dark sky reserve
Experience a beautiful sunrise at El Tatio Geysers

Overview

This raw, untamed landscape captures the imagination of all who venture here. Our journey invites you to uncover the breathtaking contrasts of this desert-meets-mountains realm. We explore otherworldly wonders from the surreal stillness of the Moon and Death Valleys to the shimmering Atacama Salt Flats and the steaming geysers of El Tatio, all framed by a majestic volcanic skyline. As night falls, the desert reveals yet another marvel: a guided astronomy tour beneath some of the clearest, most star-filled skies on Earth.

Itinerary

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Begin your adventure today as you are greeted at Calama Airport. From here you will be transferred to San Pedro de Atacama, 120km from the airport and directly through the Atacama Desert. Set at the northern end of Salar de Atacama (salt lake), this delightful oasis town has a “frontier” ambience. It is not far from the Bolivian and Argentinian borders in the midst of the driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert and on the high altiplano. Later we head out to Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) to reach it just in time for sunset. The Valley of the Moon lies just over 10km from San Pedro de Atacama. This region is more often recognised as the driest place on Earth due to its lack of rainfall for over a century. It features rock and salt formations sculpted over thousands of years, creating a landscape that closely resembles the surface of the Moon. You can explore the array of caves, sand dunes, and unique geological formations. As the sun sets, the valley transforms into a vibrant display of colours, with the Licancabur Volcano providing a dramatic backdrop. Take a breath as the glow of the desert and the amazing colours produce an incredible sunset. We return to the town and our hotel. Overnight: Terra Luna Atacama or similar PLEASE NOTE: Please ensure you arrive before 12.00pm to participate in the afternoon excursion.

Meals: D

Venture deep into one of the planet’s driest deserts with a trek from San Pedro de Atacama, in search of a hidden waterfall few ever see. Hike along the rugged slopes of the Vilama River, where ancient cacti pierce the sky and wild birds glide overhead. Push through the heat and arid terrain, and be rewarded with the ultimate desert surprise — a secret oasis where you can plunge into cool, crystal-clear waters after the long, sun-drenched journey. Our excursion continues as we ascend to the Lagoons and Atacama Salt Flats. We visit Toconao village, famous for its volcanic stone artisans, and take a hike to Jeri Valley and visit the Chaxa Lagoon, home to a flamingo breeding ground. These lagoons are surrounded by impressive volcanoes originated by the rising of the Andes in ancient geological times. On the way, we will also visit the pretty village of Socaire. A box lunch is taken en route and return to San Pedro. Today is a long but rewarding day, as this spectacular region opens up its secrets. Overnight: Terra Luna Atacama or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today you will have the optioon to either mountain bike or trek. Starting in San Pedro de Atacama, our route leads into the scenic Catarpe Valley, where diverse vegetation meets striking geological formations. The journey continues into the dramatic canyon of Garganta del Diablo, a place steeped in ancient legends and known for its rugged beauty. The final stop is Rainbow Valley, famous for its vividly colored hills and mineral-rich streams that paint the landscape in natural hues. After returning back to San Pedro de Atacama, tonight you will enjoy a delicious BBQ at the Oasis, set within 1.5 hectares of native fruit trees, offering a stunning view of the sunset in a peaceful natural setting. Later in the evening, take part in a fascinating astronomical tour under the stars. Learn how to navigate the night sky with the naked eye and observe celestial wonders through high-powered telescopes. You'll uncover the mysteries of the stars—what constellations are, how to identify them, and how to read a star map. A green laser pointer helps clearly highlight the various constellations in the sky. When the moon is visible, you’ll even have the opportunity to capture photos of it through the telescope using a digital camera. Overnight: Terra Luna Atacama or similar

Meals: B,L,D

We leave our hotel at around 4.00am in the morning to ensure we are at the high geyser field (4300 metres) at daybreak to witness the geysers as they produce explosive vents of steam that reach up to 8 metres in height. In the early morning light, it is quite a mystical scene. After this impressive start to the day, we continue through the highlands with an impressive view of Putama Volcano and the Tocorpuri Mountains, where the native flora can be appreciated. From here we are heading to Calama, visiting Caspana, Lasana and Chiu-Chiu villages en route. Once we reach Calama, you will be transferred to Calama airport, where the trip concludes. Please do not book a flight from Calama before 11am. PLEASE NOTE: The itinerary is a guide only, the order of the excursions may change.

Meals: B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
Accommodation in good quality hotel on a twinshare basis
Private transportation
All listed excursions with local guides
Entrance fees

Not included

Domestic flights within Chile
Meals not mentioned in itinerary
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Personal expenses – laundry, telephones, tipping
International airfares & departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel Insurance (Compulsory)