Exploring the Atacama Desert: A Complete Travel Guide to Chile’s Otherworldly Landscape

Nestled in northern Chile, the Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, salt flats, and otherworldly scenery. If you’re looking to explore a place that feels like a scene from another planet, this desert is the place to be.

As a travel guide, I’ll walk you through the top attractions, essential tips, and unique activities to experience in the Atacama Desert. From salt flats to volcanic peaks, prepare to be amazed by this stunning, surreal region.

🗺️ Where is the Atacama Desert?

The Atacama Desert stretches across northern Chile, covering an area of around 105,000 square kilometers (40,000 square miles). It is bordered by the Andes Mountains to the east and the Coastal Range to the west, offering striking contrasts in terrain and natural beauty.

While the desert is famous for its extreme aridity (some areas have not seen rain in centuries), it is home to an incredible variety of landscapes and ecosystems.

The desert is accessible from San Pedro de Atacama, a charming town that serves as the base for most travelers exploring the region.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.

Spring (Sept–Nov): A pleasant time with moderate temperatures and blooming wildflowers in certain areas.

Summer (Dec–Feb): The hottest time, but ideal for stargazing and desert adventures.

Autumn (Mar–May): A great time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Winter (Jun–Aug): Colder, especially in the evenings, but perfect for those seeking quieter, less crowded experiences.

🚆 How to Get to the Atacama Desert

To get to the Atacama Desert, the closest city is San Pedro de Atacama, which serves as the main hub for visitors.

By Plane: The nearest airport is El Loa Airport (CJC) in Calama, around 100 km (62 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama. From there, you can take a bus or shuttle to the desert.

By Bus: Buses from Calama, Antofagasta, and other Chilean cities regularly head to San Pedro de Atacama.

By Car: Renting a car is a great option for those who want the flexibility to explore the desert at their own pace.

🧭 Top Things to Do in the Atacama Desert

1. Visit Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon)

One of the most iconic attractions in the Atacama Desert is Valle de la Luna. This surreal landscape, shaped by centuries of erosion, resembles the surface of the moon, with towering sand dunes, salt formations, and rock formations that create an otherworldly atmosphere.

Things to Do:

Hike or walk through the valley, particularly at sunset, when the landscape takes on a golden hue.

Visit La Cueva de Sal (the Salt Cave), a massive cave carved into the salt rock.

2. Explore the Salt Flats of Salar de Atacama

The Salar de Atacama is the largest salt flat in Chile and one of the driest places on Earth. It spans around 3,000 square kilometers, creating an expansive, stark white landscape.

Must-See:

Laguna Chaxa: A salt lake within the salar, home to flamingos and other wildlife.

El Tatio Geysers: The highest geyser field in the world, located at an altitude of over 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). It’s particularly stunning at sunrise when the geysers release hot steam into the cool morning air.

3. Go Stargazing in the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. With its clear, dry skies and lack of light pollution, the desert offers unparalleled views of the Milky Way, planets, and constellations.

Book a stargazing tour with a local guide to learn about the constellations and other celestial wonders.

Visit ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array), one of the world’s most powerful observatories.

4. Hike to the Volcanoes of the Andes

The Atacama Desert is surrounded by towering volcanoes that offer some of the best hiking and climbing opportunities in Chile. Some of the most famous volcanoes include:

Licancabur: One of the most iconic peaks in the region, standing at 5,916 meters (19,409 feet).

Láscar: An active volcano that’s popular for trekkers seeking a challenging adventure.

Sierra Nevada: A stunning mountain range that’s great for hiking and exploration.

5. Discover the Lagunas Altiplánicas

High in the Andes, the Lagunas Altiplánicas (Altiplano Lakes) are two stunning high-altitude lakes—Laguna Miscanti and Laguna Miñiques. Surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes, these deep blue lakes offer breathtaking views.

The lakes are located at an altitude of around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).

It’s a great spot to spot wildlife such as flamingos, llamas, and vicunas.

6. Visit the Town of San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is the main base for exploring the desert. This quaint town offers a blend of local culture, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.

Highlights:

Museo de los Lickan Antay: A museum dedicated to the culture of the Atacama people.

Plaza de Armas: A charming square surrounded by shops, restaurants, and the historic San Pedro Church.

Artisan Market: A great place to buy handmade goods like alpaca wool scarves, pottery, and jewelry.

7. Take a Dip in the Laguna Cejar

The Laguna Cejar is a saltwater lagoon in the Atacama Desert, famous for its high salt content that allows visitors to float effortlessly on the surface, similar to the Dead Sea.

The lagoon is surrounded by salt flats and stunning scenery, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing swim.

🍽️ What to Eat in the Atacama Desert

While the Atacama Desert is known for its rugged landscapes, its cuisine is equally unique. Traditional Chilean dishes can be found in San Pedro de Atacama and nearby areas.

Must-Try Dishes:

Empanadas: Delicious pastries filled with meat, cheese, or seafood.

Cazuela: A hearty stew made with chicken, potatoes, and corn.

Pisco Sour: Chile’s national cocktail made with Pisco, lemon, and egg whites.

🛏️ Where to Stay in the Atacama Desert

There are various accommodation options in San Pedro de Atacama to suit different budgets.

Luxury:

Explora Atacama: A luxurious resort offering all-inclusive packages and guided desert excursions.

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa: A desert oasis with stunning views and a full-service spa.

Mid-Range:

Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa: A beautiful boutique hotel with amazing desert views and excellent service.

Hotel Altiplánico: A charming and comfortable option with a great location near the town center.

Budget:

Hostal Lickan Antay: A budget-friendly hostel with friendly service.

Hostal San Pedro de Atacama: An affordable option offering basic amenities and a cozy atmosphere.

🎭 Cultural Events & Festivals

Festival de la Cultura Atacameña: A cultural festival celebrating the indigenous Atacama people with music, dance, and traditional food.

Fiesta de la Vendimia: A wine harvest festival held in March, where you can taste local wines and enjoy live music.

🧳 Practical Travel Tips

Altitude: The Atacama Desert is located at high altitudes (up to 4,500 meters/14,764 feet), so be prepared for altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and acclimatize gradually.

Weather: Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night, so pack appropriately. Days are hot, but nights can be extremely cold.

Transportation: Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore, but tours are also available to visit the desert’s main attractions.

🌿 Responsible Travel in the Atacama Desert

Respect local communities – Support eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.

Conserve water – The Atacama is extremely dry, so use water wisely.

Leave no trace – Avoid disturbing wildlife and leave nature as you found it.

📍 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Iconic Desert Sights

Morning: Visit Valle de la Luna and Laguna Cejar.

Afternoon: Explore San Pedro de Atacama and the Museo de los Lickan Antay.

Evening: Stargazing tour at ALMA or Valle de la Muerte.

Day 2: High Altitude Adventures

Morning: Visit Salar de Atacama and Laguna Chaxa.

Afternoon: Take a tour to the Lagunas Altiplánicas.

Evening: Relax at Explora Atacama or another desert resort.