Iconic tours and places in San Pedro de Atacama and its surroundings
So that you don't miss a thing when you come to San Pedro de Atacama, here is an extensive list of some of the wonders this beautiful pre-cordilleran town hides.
San Pedro de Atacama is a destination that leaves no one indifferent. Its stunning natural beauty, its rich ancestral culture, and its variety of activities make it an ideal place to live an unforgettable adventure.
From its village, located at 2,400 meters of altitude, you can reach a wide variety of iconic tours and places that will surprise you with their singularity and their magic.
These are some of the iconic tours and places you cannot miss if you travel to San Pedro de Atacama:
Valle de la Luna. It is one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Atacama Desert, formed by dunes, mountains, and rocks eroded by wind and water. Its name comes from its resemblance to the lunar surface, especially at sunset, when the sun tints the sky and the earth in reddish and orange tones. On this tour you can visit places such as Las Tres Marías, the Amphitheater, the Great Dune, and the Kari viewpoint.
The El Tatio geysers. It is the highest geothermal field in the world, located at 4,300 meters above sea level. Here you can watch more than 80 geysers shooting jets of steam and boiling water into the air, creating a spectacle unique in the world. The best time to see them is at dawn, when the temperature difference between the air and the ground is greatest. On this tour you can also enjoy an open-air breakfast and bathe in the thermal pools.
The altiplanic lagoons. These are two beautiful lagoons located at more than 4,000 meters of altitude, surrounded by volcanoes and wildlife. They are called Miscanti and Miñiques, and they have an intense blue color that contrasts with the white of the salt and the green of the vegetation. On this tour you can admire their beauty and learn more about their origin and their ecological importance. You can also visit other places such as the Salar de Atacama, the Chaxa lagoon, and the town of Toconao.
The astronomical tour. It is an unmissable activity for lovers of the stars and the universe. The Atacama Desert offers optimal conditions for astronomical observation, thanks to its low humidity, its scarce light pollution, and its high altitude. On this tour you can learn about the constellations, the planets, the Milky Way, and other celestial phenomena, along with the Andean Cosmovision, with the help of an expert guide and a professional telescope. You will also get photographs of the night sky and enjoy a snack.
The Uyuni Salt Flat. It is the largest and highest salt flat in the world, located in Bolivia, near the border with Chile. It is an incredible place that seems to come from another planet, with a white, flat surface that stretches to the horizon. On this tour you can travel through its main attractions, such as Incahuasi Island, the Train Cemetery, the Tunupa Volcano, and the Eyes of the Salt Flat. You can also see flamingos, vicuñas, llamas, and other animals typical of the area.
Cejar Lagoon. It is a salt lagoon located inside the Salar de Atacama, about 28 km from San Pedro. It has a turquoise color that contrasts with the white of the salt and the ochre of the desert. The most curious thing is that, due to its high salt concentration, you can float in its waters without sinking. On this tour you can visit other nearby lagoons, such as Piedra Lagoon and Tebinquinche Lagoon, and enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Rainbow Valley. It is a valley that owes its name to the different colors of its mountains and rocks, due to the presence of minerals such as iron, copper, and sulfur. On this tour you can appreciate the chromatic variety of the landscape and visit some petroglyphs that bear witness to the Atacameña culture. You can also get to know the town of Río Grande and its typical architecture.
The Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache. These are seven salt lagoons found in the middle of the desert, forming a surprising contrast. Their color ranges from white to deep blue, and some of them allow bathing and floating. On this tour you can discover this secret and marvelous place and take incredible photographs.
These are only some of the iconic tours and places you can visit in San Pedro de Atacama and its surroundings. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our astronomical tours and other activities that will make you live an unforgettable experience in the driest desert in the world.
What are you waiting for to live one of the most fascinating experiences of your life?
Book your astronomical and astrophotography tour with Atacama Stargazing now and let yourself be amazed by the starriest sky in the world. Learn about the universe, take incredible photos, and enjoy a professional and personalized service. Do not let this unique opportunity pass and take advantage of our special offers. Contact us today and secure your spot!