Story and photos by Emma Fox
The driest place on Earth may not sound like an ideal spot for a luxury vacation, but this is surprisingly one of Chile's tourism jewels and there is plenty to keep you occupied in this alien landscape.
The Atacama Desert region is often described as otherworldly. Lunar-like landscapes of crystallized salt flats, freeze-dried peaks, spewing geysers and purple-shaded volcanoes contrast with green oases and turquoise lakes for a breathtakingly beautiful destination. Here, in the driest desert of the world, jaded travelers, adrenalin junkies and softcore adventurers can find endless options for trekking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, hot springs, astronomy, and bicycling.
Here are seven "don't miss" excursions, as well a recommended trip coordinator you must experience while visiting the Atacama Desert. In many cases, you must be a guest at the mentioned hotel to participate in the excursion, but there are similar excursions at other offered properties. Once you've explored the natural beauty and geographic wonders of this region, you may never want to leave.
Stargazing
Chile has the clearest skies in the southern hemisphere, and is considered by many scientists as one of the best stargazing locations in the world. It's for this reason why San Pedro de Atacama was the chosen site for the largest ground-based astronomy project, The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), an international collaboration between Europe, Japan and North America in cooperation with the Republic of Chile. Under the concept "astronomy for all," guests at explora en Atacama can soak up the beauty of the stars, planets, and constellations with the hotel's new Meade 16" f/10 LX200R Advanced RD Telescope. Housed in a space age-sleek observatory dome just steps from the main building, astronomical highlights as the Southern Cross, the Clouds of Magellan, and two irregular satellite galaxies of the Milky Way are now within stargazer's reach.
Go: explora.com/atacama or (866) 750-6699.
 Thermal Springs at Puritama
The Thermal Springs of Puritama (indigenous word for "hot water") are situated approximately 19 miles north of the main village at an altitude of 11,398 ft. They were discovered centuries ago by local residents, but were not open to the public until recently. It's possible to arrive via vehicle (private or rented ¯ no public transportation), but far more interesting to hike along the canyon floor from Guatín to the springs.
At Tierra Atacama, Salvador leads the semi-strenuous trek heading uphill over uneven landscape, taking hikers past foxtails, cacti, and brightly hued igneous rock formations. After working up a sweat, participants are rewarded with warm (91.4°F), therapeutic waters that are said to combat an array of ailments.
Modern facilities include a changing area, clean bathrooms, and a deck that doubles as a picnic area.
Go: tierraatacama.com or (56-2) 263 0606
Zapar
Awasi is one of the few properties offering guided tours to Zapur and gifted guide Elvira Montenegro is the woman you want to see it with. For visitors interested in the life and history of the local communities, this excursion starts with a tour of an incredibly green canyon that miraculously appears in the middle of nowhere. Down this canyon runs water that comes from the Andes Range. Walk from Tambillo, an area lush with Tamarugo trees to reach Zapar.
Few tourists are fortunate enough visit this important archaeological site. In pre-Colombian times, Zapar was an important enclave linked to the Quitor Puakara.
Go: Awasi.cl or +56 (55)851460
 Biking Cornisas
Photography buffs swoon for the panoramic views of the Andes Range and the Catarpe Valley found atop the highest point of the Salt Range. Vulcano Expediciones' excursion is perfect for those who seek a spectacular communion with nature. The half-day adventure takes riders along the cornices toward the north and an ancient tunnel leading to Calama. From there, cyclists descend through the cornices to Death Valley, before returning to San Pedro de Atacama.
Go: www.vulcanochile.com or 0056 (55) 851023
Horseback Riding
Explora set the standard in San Pedro de Atacama for arranging excursions, and are among the best with what they offer and how they operate. What sets explora apart is  its equestrian program. Their programs are designed primarily for people with riding skills, although instructors are available for beginner riders wishing to learn.
After a few early morning lessons, skills and comfort level are evaluated and guests may be ready for a horseback riding exploration. For those who know how to trot and/or gallop, explora has the finest Chilean and English saddles, leather gaiters, and helmets.
Go:explora.com/atacama or (866) 750-6699; atacamahorseadventure.com or (56-55) 851956
Sandboarding
Frequently compared to surfing, sandboarding beginners will want to enlist the expertise of an instructor. Atacama Expeditions offers guided trips to Chile's Death Valley led by pro sandboarders. Participants are shuttled to Death Valley, where they must hike uphill to the top of a massive dune. There, boards slightly shorter than a standard snowboard are waxed before being strapped on. Lean back, feel the speed and remember to keep your mouth closed - tumbles are inevitable.
If you're going to rent a board and go solo, be sure to go early to avoid the extreme sunlight and heat, or much later when temperatures cool, preferably with a full moon for an unforgettable experience.
Go: www.atacamaexpeditions.cl or (52) 223640
Tatio Geysers
Caused by high levels of volcanic activity, the Tatio Geysers are the highest geysers in the world at more than 14,000 ft. At this geothermic field, water and steam spews from more than 70 spots, and there are 60 pools of boiling water with soft edges, formed by mineral salts. The geysers are most active early in the morning and later in the evening; expect a pre-dawn arrival to the area with Ivero Travels. Following breakfast in the field, it's possible to bather in nearby thermal baths, before heading back to town. En route, a stop is made in the small Typical Altiplanic Town called Machuca.
Go: www.iverotravels.cl or (56-55) 851615
Multi-day itineraries
Ski.com has been coordinating custom mountain vacations for nearly four decades. After skiing Portillo, Valle Nevado, and Termas de Chillan, many of their clients tack on a side-trip extension, typically 4 to 10 nights, to the Atacama region. They offer one of the widest variety of itineraries, including excursions to Cordillera de la Sal, Licancabur Volcano, Archaeological Museum Padre Le Paige, Pukarai de Quitor, Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), Los Flamencos National Reserve, Atacama Salt Flat, Tatio Geysers, Caspana, and Cejar Lagoon. Ski.com specializes in working with Atacama's luxury hotels, including the Awasi, Explora, Tierra Atacama, Alto Atacama and Kunza.
Go: Ski.com or (800) 908-5000
- Emma Fox
Return to Chile Hotels Page
Return to Destinations Page |
