Have questions? We're here.
The salt flats of the Atacama Desert stretch as far as the eye can see

Atacama Desert

Example 4-5 Day Tour
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Chile trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Discover the mystical beauty and inspiring geology of the Atacama Desert. Witness the fantastic colorful display of the Valley of the Moon at sunset. Visit the altiplanic lagoons Miscanti & Meñiques and spend a day visiting the Tatio Geysers. With more time, you can choose from a variety of day tours that explore this incredible region. Take an archaeological tour at the famous the Museo Gustavo Le Paige museum. Explore the Lasana valley and its preserved petroglyphs. The opportunities to explore this region are endless. Spend your nights in San Pedro de Atacama, where our lodge options provides relaxing accommodations while appreciating the traditional ways of life of the indigenous communities of the area.
A magnificent sunset over Atacama's ValleyAtacama MoonFlamingos in the lagoons of the Atacama DesertThe cracked terrain of AtacamaAtacama DesertLooking out over the Atacama DesertOn top of the world in the Atacama Desert, ChileEnjoy your stay at the uniquely stucco Hotel AltiplanicoThe salt flats of the Atacama Desert stretch as far as the eye can see
Highlights
  • Discover the mystical beauty and inspiring geology of the Atacama Desert.
  • View turquoise lagoons contrasting with the desert reds and oranges.
  • Experience the Geysers of Tatio as boiling steam bursts into the sky.
  • Watch the moon rise over the wind-sculpted salt statues in the Moon Valley
Activities
Activity Level: Easy Active
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive in Atacama

Upon your arrival at the Calama airport, you will be met and transferred straight to San Pedro de Atacama, passing the stunning rock formations of the Cordillera de la Sal (Salt Mountains).  Upon arrival, you’ll receive your detailed itinerary for the coming days. After you are comfortably settled into your room, spend the afternoon strolling through the village at your own pace, browsing local handicraft shops, visiting the historic church, and soaking up the unique desert atmosphere.

Please select a flight that lands prior to noon (12:00 pm).
Maximum Altitude Visited: 7,900 FT / 2,400M

Please note that the order of tours listed is subject to change. This itinerary can be booked as a private trip if you would prefer a specific order. 

Day 2: Altiplanic Lagoons & Desert Wines

Discover the Atacama Salt Flat at Laguna Chaxa, home to graceful flamingos, then visit Socaire before reaching the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques at 4,200 m. Continue to Toconao to explore its history and local crafts. The adventure goes on along the Lickanantay Wine Route, where you’ll learn about high-altitude winemaking in the desert, visit Santa Romina Vineyard, and enjoy a tasting of unique wines shaped by Atacama’s extreme environment.

Maximum Altitude Visited: 14,108 FT / 4,300M

Day 3: Tatio Geysers and Machucha

Experience an unforgettable day in Atacama. At sunrise, visit the impressive Tatio Geysers at 4,300 m and watch steam columns rise in this surreal landscape. Continue to Machuca, a charming high-altitude village known for its culture and traditions. In the afternoon, explore the Moon Valley, its unique geology, the historic Victoria Salt Mine, and the iconic Three Marys formations. End the day at Mars Valley, where a sunset toast offers the perfect finale to a journey filled with nature, history, and striking desert scenery.

Maximum Altitude Visited: 13,780 FT/ 4,200M

Day 4: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
Today, say farewell to the desert. Depart from your lodge and return to Calama airport to fly on to your next adventure or return to Santiago to fly home. It is suggested that you choose a flight departing from Calama (CJC) after 5:00 PM to allow sufficient time for the transfer to the airport.

Maximum Altitude Visited: 7,900 FT / 2400M

PLEASE NOTE: With more time, opt to add an additional day in the Atacama! Below is a sample additional day that can be added for an additional cost. Discuss with your Trip Planner.

Llama Caravan in San Pedro de Atacama: Enjoy an authentic experience that connects you with ancestral Atacameño culture. The “Llama Caravan” is a peaceful, history-filled walk where you’ll stroll beside these noble animals, which for centuries have been companions and a key part of life in the Andean villages.On this excursion, you’ll follow a caravan of llamas along desert trails, just as ancestral peoples did to transport goods across valleys and mountains. Along the way, you’ll enjoy close contact with the llamas and learn about local customs, traditions and knowledge, guided by experts in Atacameño culture.

Accommodations

Atacama Desert - Hotels

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$1,824 2-3 travelers

Notes

Select a Date
Pricing is based on regular group departures, max group size 10 participants. Please inquire for private trip pricing.

Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 3 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch
  • 3 Nights Accommodations
  • 3 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

Popular Add-ons

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By

Chile Travel Guide

Favorite Chile Chile All Trips

Top Chile Travel Destinations

Chile Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Chile

Chile Trips by Duration

Chile Trips by Activity