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Atacama Desert: Tours, Stargazing & Where I Stayed
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items My San Pedro de Atacama picks from five days exploring Chile’s desert without a rental car: dramatic valleys, high-altitude lagoons, geothermal landscapes and the hotel I stayed at. Use this alongside my full Veggie Travel Girl itinerary and allow ti...
Map
This was my base for exploring San Pedro de Atacama. A pretty hotel for unwinding between desert excursions, although my room did not have air conditioning. Check the room details before booking. The booking link is my Expedia affiliate link; I may e...
El Refugio La Casa de Don Tomas
One of the dramatic desert landscapes on my Atacama itinerary, with sculpted rock formations and wide-open views. A beautiful choice for photography. Plan transport from San Pedro and check current entry arrangements before you go.
Valle de la Luna
Rainbow Valley is on my Atacama itinerary for its colorful mineral-streaked formations. A different desert landscape to pair with the lagoons and salt flats. Check the route and current access with your tour provider.
Valle del Arcoiris
A flamingo-watching stop on my Atacama itinerary. The salt-flat setting is part of the appeal, so bring a camera and take time to enjoy the landscape. Wildlife sightings vary.
Laguna Chaxa
An early start for geothermal steam in the Atacama Desert. This is a high-altitude excursion, so give yourself time to acclimatize and bring warm layers for the cold morning. Check your tour’s pickup and altitude guidance.
El Tatio
A high-altitude lagoon from my desert itinerary, surrounded by striking Andean scenery. Pair with the nearby lagoons on a planned excursion and allow time to acclimatize.
Miscanti Lake
The red rocks and high-altitude scenery made this part of my Atacama route especially photogenic. Combine with nearby lagoons through a planned excursion; prepare for altitude, sun and changing temperatures.
Piedras Rojas
A salt-lagoon stop from my Atacama itinerary with broad desert views. A lovely contrast to the rocky valleys and geysers. Check access and tour timing when planning the day.
Laguna Tebinquinche
One of the restaurants I included in my San Pedro de Atacama guide. Vegetarian eating here took some planning, so check the current menu and keep backup snacks for long desert excursions.
Adobe
My complete five-day Atacama itinerary, including stargazing, excursions, food and the hotel I stayed at. Use the full guide to see how I grouped the desert stops without renting a car.
San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide: 5 Day Itinerary