Atacama Desert Trek

Arrival takes place at Calama Airport, followed by a scenic drive to San Pedro de Atacama. Along the way, the route passes through the dramatic landscapes of the Cordillera de la Sal, known for its jagged ridges and salt-covered rock formations.

In San Pedro, check-in at the hotel takes place before lunch. During the meal, a short briefing outlines the itinerary and safety guidelines for the days ahead.

The first activity in the afternoon is a guided hike through Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), one of the top attractions in the Atacama Desert. The trail crosses sand dunes and salt canyons before arriving at a panoramic viewpoint. From there, watch the sun set over the valley as the surrounding ridges glow in shades of orange and red.

Return to San Pedro in the evening for dinner and the first night at the hotel.

The day begins with breakfast, followed by a drive to Yerbas Buenas. From there, the trek starts with a walk toward the San Pedro River, moving through narrow canyons and crossing shallow water. The route features unusual rock formations and desert plant life typical of the Atacama region.

The trail continues into the Domeyko Mountains, reaching Rainbow Valley. This part of the desert is known for its striped hills, formed by layers of minerals in colors such as green, red, copper, and violet. These natural patterns have been shaped over time by wind and erosion.

After exploring the valley, the group visits the Yerbas Buenas archaeological site. The site contains well-preserved pre-Columbian petroglyphs carved into volcanic rock, including images of native animals, routes, and ancient symbols that offer insight into the culture of the desert’s early inhabitants.

Return to San Pedro in the afternoon for an evening at leisure and overnight at the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 14 km | 8.7 mi
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Max Altitude: 3,525 m | 11,565 ft
Elevation Loss: 406 m | 1,332 ft

After breakfast, begin the day early with a transfer to the trailhead near the old San Bartolo mine. The hike starts by following a path once used by miners, passing through the remains of a deserted mining site and an old cemetery. Nearby, ancient petroglyphs are visible on the rocks, offering more signs of the region’s long human history.

The trail continues with a steady climb along the side of a dry valley. The route passes through one of the driest parts of the Atacama Desert, where conditions are so extreme that even bacteria struggle to survive. The landscape is wide and bare, with little shade and few signs of life.

By late afternoon, arrival takes place at the village of Rio Grande, located at 3,250 meters above sea level. This remote settlement is one of the last small communities in the Altiplano, known for its traditional architecture and cultivated terraces.

Transfer back to San Pedro de Atacama for the night at the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 22 km | 13.6 mi
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Max Altitude: 3,288 m | 10,787 ft
Elevation Gain: 394 m | 1,292 ft

After breakfast, transfer from San Pedro back to Rio Grande to begin the day’s demanding trek. The trail follows narrow valleys lined with streams, where locals are often seen herding llamas.

The route climbs steadily through steep canyons, gaining nearly 800 meters of elevation. The landscape shifts from dry rock to the wetlands surrounding Machuca, an area known for birdlife and grazing animals adapted to the altitude.

A stop at the Peñaliri sector provides open views of the surrounding peaks and remote terrain. Along the way, traditional farms show how native crops such as potatoes, corn, and onions are grown in this high-altitude setting.

The trail ends at Machuca, a small Andean village located at over 4,000 meters above sea level. On a clear day, the final approach offers views of Licancabur Volcano, an important cultural site for the Atacameño people.

After the trek, transfer back to San Pedro for the night at the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 15 km | 9.3 mi
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Max Altitude: 4,015 m | 13,172 ft
Elevation Gain: 787 m | 2,582 ft

Depart early from San Pedro for the drive to the Tatio Geysers. Arrival takes place after the sunrise crowds, allowing time to explore the geothermal field in full daylight. Steam columns rise up to 40 meters high, surrounded by bubbling pools and mineral formations. At over 4,000 meters above sea level, the Tatio Geysers are among the highest in the world.

After visiting the geysers, the journey continues with a drive to Guatin Valley. The hike starts in a forest of giant cardón cacti and leads to the meeting point of two rivers, the warm Puritama and the cold Purifica, which combine to form the Vilama River.

The hike continues along rocky terrain, crossing the river and passing waterfalls, small pools, and native plants. Some steep sections require careful footing. The trail ends at a high viewpoint with open views of the valley below.

Return to San Pedro for dinner and the night at the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 8 km | 4.97 mi
Hiking Time: Approx. 2 hours
Max Altitude: 4,267 m | 13,999 ft
Elevation Gain: 375 m | 1,230 ft

The day begins with a drive south from San Pedro de Atacama to the Atacama Salt Flat, one of the largest salt flats in Chile. Its shallow lagoons and mineral-rich wetlands are a key habitat for Altiplano birdlife, including Chilean flamingos often seen feeding in the water.

The journey continues higher into the Andes to the Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons. Set at over 4,000 meters, these lagoons are known for their deep blue and turquoise waters, which contrast with the surrounding volcanic slopes and golden highland grasses.

After a final short walk to explore the viewpoints, return to San Pedro de Atacama for dinner and the last night at the hotel.

Hiking Distance: 6.5 km | 4 mi
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Max Altitude: 4,100 m | 13,451 ft
Elevation Gain: 94 m | 308 ft

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in San Pedro de Atacama, with time to wander the village, browse the handicraft shops, and visit its historic church and museum. Later, transfer to Calama Airport for the onward flight home or to the next destination.