I want to preface this by saying I have never travelled in Chile so I wasn’t sure what to expect. The guide didn’t seem to spread her attention around the group. Focussing on only a few. She was very knowledgeable and friendly. The included meals were ‘ok’ and not very well organized in their set up.
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Full Day Experience
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (centrally located hotels only)
- Breakfast
- Professional Guide
Excludes
- Entrance Fee
- Personal expenses
- Meals and drinks
- Gratuities
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Traveler pick up offered
Itinerary
Our adventure begins early, between 06:00 and 06:30 hrs, from your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, to make the most of the day and immerse ourselves in the amazing diversity of landscapes that await us.
We will ascend to an impressive 4,000 meters above sea level until we reach the Piedras Rojas, a unique geological formation characterized by its intense red rocks that contrast spectacularly with the turquoise waters of the lake that surrounds them. Here you will have the opportunity to explore this surreal landscape and capture stunning photographs.
We will continue ascending until we reach almost 4,200 meters above sea level, where the impressive Miscanti and Miñiques Altiplanic Lagoons await us. These beautiful high mountain lagoons, located in the Los Flamencos National Reserve, offer dreamlike panoramic views, surrounded by majestic mountains and habitat for a variety of wildlife. It will be a perfect time to watch birds and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region.
Then, we will go to the town of Socaire.
Our next destination will be the fascinating Laguna Chaxa, part of the vast Salar de Atacama. This salty lagoon is home to flamingos and other aquatic birds, attracted by its high salt and nutrient content. Here you will have the opportunity to observe these beautiful birds in their natural habitat and marvel at the uniqueness of the fauna and flora of the place.
The Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile and one of the largest in the world, will welcome us with its impressive salt landscapes and wide horizons. We will enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch in a unique setting, while we explore the fascinating salt formations and marvel at the immensity of the landscape.
At the end of our exploration, we will return to San Pedro de Atacama, where we will drop you off near the municipal parking lot so you can continue exploring the charming town or return to your hotel on your own. If you prefer, our private service can take you directly to your hotel.
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
Great experience in Atacama Desert Chile, see what we have expected, tour guide is very nice, excellent service by Viator
The colours and grandeur of the landscape were unparalleled but this you can see on any tour- what was unique was how the guides (Francesca and Lucas) went above and beyond to translate everything into English for us. They timed everything perfectly along the way and made sure to give us information before or after the main group on the side so it didn't interrupt the flow. Breakfast set up and take down was also accompanied by information so we were always interested and food was great (set up a table of pre-prepared items parked up with spectacular desert views/ the Tropic of Capricorn). It was much more informative than tours we have recently been on (in Peru) so I may have to rethink how I rank other tours :)
It was a very long day. However, our guide Jay was absolutely amazing. She took a lot of time to explain things to the group in multiple languages. Her knowledge of the animals, plant's, and terrain; is very extensive. I would 100% recommend Jay as a guide.
An absolutely beautiful day out. The lagoons are stunning and the colours and geology at Piedras Rochas is amazing. Definitely worth a trip. Look out for wildlife and bird life along the way as well as amazing plants (we visited in spring which made it more spectacular). Each of the sites is community run and restricts visitor numbers to preserve the places. You need to buy a ticket beforehand (the website isn't the easiest to use) and then check in at various range stations. The rangers are really helpful and the sites are beautifully taken care of - the toilets are amazing, something other tourist destinations in other countries could certainly learn from!! The peace, tranquillity and amazing colours make these sites a delight.
The best tour in the Atacama desert, it looks like a painting with no flaws... from photos and videos we don't have the size of the volcanoes and lagoons
My experience in the Atacama Desert was breathtaking. The arid landscape, with its vibrant colors and the turquoise waters of Laguna Caliente, created a surreal setting. It was an unforgettable journey, surrounded by the raw natural beauty of the desert.
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