Atacama Desert Tours

Recommended Atacama Desert Tours

Moon & Death Valley Tour

The Moon & Death Valley Tour is an ideal introduction to the Atacama Desert, especially for travelers arriving in San Pedro de Atacama in the afternoon. Explore wind- and salt-eroded desert landscapes that resemble the surface of the moon, including ridges, dunes, and salt caves. The tour ends with a spectacular sunset over the Cordillera de la Sal.

Atacama Salt Flats & Altiplanic Lagoons

This full-day excursion visits the Atacama Salt Flats and the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques. Along the way, travelers often spot flamingos, coots, grebes, and other Andean birdlife. The route also passes through the traditional village of Toconao, known for its volcanic-stone architecture.

Tatio Geysers Tour

One of the Atacama’s most iconic experiences, the Tatio Geysers are best visited at dawn when geothermal activity is at its peak. Steam plumes rise dramatically from the ground at over 4,300 meters (14,000 feet). Due to the early start and high elevation, warm clothing is essential. Many tours include an optional soak at the nearby Puritama hot springs.

Atacama Desert Stargazing

With some of the clearest skies on Earth, the Atacama Desert is a world-class destination for astronomy. Evening stargazing tours visit local observatories where travelers observe planets, stars, and galaxies through professional telescopes while learning to interpret the southern night sky.

Puritama Hot Springs

Located about 20 miles north of San Pedro de Atacama, the Puritama Hot Springs offer a relaxing contrast to the surrounding desert landscapes. The naturally heated pools, fed by geothermal springs at around 33°C (91°F), are connected by wooden walkways and surrounded by a scenic canyon. Facilities include outdoor pools, changing rooms, and shaded rest areas.

Add-On Experiences from San Pedro de Atacama

Depending on your interests and the length of your stay, additional excursions can be added to your Atacama Desert itinerary.

Pukara de Quitor & Archaeological Sites

The Pukara de Quitor fortress overlooks the San Pedro River Valley and offers insight into pre-Columbian Atacameño culture. Nearby attractions include the ancient village of Tulor and the Padre Le Paige Archaeological Museum, which houses thousands of artifacts recovered from the region. The arid climate has preserved these sites remarkably well.

Tours from Iquique

From the Pacific coast city of Iquique, travelers can explore historic Atacama ghost towns such as Humberstone and the Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These abandoned nitrate-mining towns provide a fascinating glimpse into Chile’s industrial past and are ideal for travelers seeking a deeper, less-visited Atacama experience.

Tours from Arica & Putre

Northern Chile’s remote altiplano regions offer dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Excursions from Arica and Putre often include Lauca or Vicuña National Reserves and the Salar de Surire, home to llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and other high-altitude species.

Calama & Chuquicamata Mine

While most travelers stay in San Pedro de Atacama, Calama serves as the region’s main transport hub. Nearby is the massive Chuquicamata Mine, one of the world’s largest open-pit copper mines, which can be visited on a guided tour for those interested in Chile’s mining heritage.