Discover the marvels of Chile's Atacama Desert, an inhospitable yet almost mystical region of astonishing beauty and unique landscapes & geological diversity. Learn about the culture of its ancient people and visit fantastic moon-like scenery, turquoise-blue high altitude lakes, geysers, impressive salt flats, volcanoes & sand dunes!
Day 1 Calama | San Pedro de Atacama
Upon arrival at Calama airport,reception and transfer to San Pedro de Atacama. En route you will be able to admire the 'Cordillera de Sal' - Salt Mountain Range, and the Licancabur Volcano in the background. Arrival at your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama for check-in and overnight.
Day 2 Moon Valley
Breakfast at your hotel followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum Padre Le Paige, with studies of Atacamenian Culture over the last 11.000 years. Then continue for a visit of the town church, the Main Square, the house of Pedro de Valdivia - conqueror and founder of Santiago - and Pukarà de Quitor. In the afternoon depart on an excursion to 'Valle de la Luna' (Moon Valley) famous world wide for its "lunar" appearance, salt caves, the Tres MarÃÂas (Three Marys) rock formations, and dunes that will grant you the chance to witness a spectacular sunset. Return to the hotel in San Pedro de Atacama for overnight. (B)
Day 3 Salar de Atacama & Altiplanico Lagoons
Today enjoy a full day excursion of this fascinating region with lunch. Start by visiting the village of Toconao with its interesting liparita stone buildings, and then continue to the Atacama Salt Flat where the Los Flamencos National Reserve is located, home to three of the most beautiful flamingo species. We then travel to the Altiplanico lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques located over 4.000 meters (over 13.000 feet) above sea level. Return to the hotel in San Pedro de Atacama for overnight accommodation. (B.L)
Day 4 San Pedro de Atacama | Tatio Geysers | Calama
Early morning departure to the Tatio Geysers where you can experience this spectacular demonstration of volcanic activity. Return to San Pedro for lunch and then the trip continues to Lasana Pukara , testimony of the native culture, and passing through Chiu-Chiu with its important historical legacies, including one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Chile. Afternoon arrival in Calama and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (B.L)
Daily Departures
Please note: this tour is not recommended for pregnant women, small children & people with heart diseases.
