Red Stones, Salar De Atacama and Lakes of the High Plateau

The "Red Stones, Salar de Atacama and Lakes of the High Plateau" tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Atacama region. Visitors can expect to be captivated by the striking contrast between the reddish hues of Piedras Rojas and the serene emerald waters of the Salar de Aguas Calientes lagoon. While the tour may not be without its challenges, the opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife and natural wonders of this remarkable area is truly one-of-a-kind. Those seeking an immersive adventure in Chile’s high desert should certainly consider this intriguing excursion.

Key Points

• This tour showcases the iconic red rocks, emerald lagoons, and diverse wildlife of the Salar de Atacama and high plateau region in northern Chile.

• The 12-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, breakfast, and lunch, providing a comprehensive experience.

• Highlights of the tour include visiting the indigenous town of Toconao, observing flamingos at Chaxa lagoon, and hiking along the Piedras Rojas trail.

• While the tour has mixed customer reviews, the flexible cancellation policy and "reserve now, pay later" option make it an accessible option for exploring this unique landscape.

• The tour duration of 12 hours allows ample time to immerse in the striking visual experiences and naturalistic appeal of the high plateau region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour named "Red Stones, Salar de Atacama and lakes of the high plateau" offers an immersive exploration of the captivating landscapes and natural wonders of the Salar de Atacama and the high-altitude lakes in the region.

Priced at SEK 1,021 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, breakfast, and lunch.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without paying upfront.

While the tour has received mixed reviews, it promises to showcase the region’s iconic red rocks, emerald lagoons, and diverse wildlife.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing shortly after early morning pickup from San Pedro de Atacama hotels, the tour embarks on a captivating exploration of the region’s remarkable landmarks.

First, visitors will venture to the indigenous town of Toconao, admiring its 18th-century church of San Lucas and bell tower, both national monuments.

Next, weather permitting, the group will make a stop at the Chaxa lagoon to observe the vibrant flamingos.

The highlight of the day’s activities is a one-hour hike along the Piedras Rojas trail, immersing participants in the region’s unique reddish landscape created by rock oxidation.

Scenic Locations

Three of the tour’s most captivating scenic locations include Piedras Rojas, the Salar de Aguas Calientes lagoon, and the opportunity to observe endemic fauna.

Piedras Rojas, a unique reddish landscape, is created by the oxidation of the surrounding rocks, presenting a striking and otherworldly visual experience.

The Salar de Aguas Calientes lagoon, with its emerald waters, is a remarkable sight to behold.

During the tour, travelers can also observe a variety of endemic wildlife, including vicuñas, foxes, and flamingos, further enhancing the naturalistic appeal of the excursion.

Customer Experiences

Despite the promising itinerary and scenic locations, customer reviews for this tour paint a mixed picture.

While the overall rating stands at a concerning 2 out of 5 based on just 2 reviews, some key issues emerge:

1. Reliability concerns with the tour supplier, leading to missed tours reported by travelers.
2. Lack of consistency, with some customers enjoying the experience while others were left dissatisfied.
3. Potential organizational challenges, as evidenced by the limited number of reviews available.

Prospective travelers would be wise to consider these customer experiences carefully before booking this tour, as the mixed feedback suggests an unpredictable level of service quality.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation by bus, and a Spanish-speaking guide. Breakfast and lunch are also part of the inclusions, providing sustenance for the long day ahead. The table below outlines the key inclusions:

Inclusions	Details
Hotel Pickup	From hotels within a 10-kilometer radius of San Pedro de Atacama
Transportation	By comfortable bus
Guide	Knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide
Meals	Breakfast and lunch included

With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and sights of the Salar de Atacama and the lakes of the high plateau, without having to worry about logistics or sustenance.

Tour Duration and Pickup

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from hotels within a 10-kilometer radius of San Pedro de Atacama, scheduled between 6:00 and 6:40 a.m.

For travelers’ convenience, an alternative pickup location is offered at Ignacio Carrera Pinto Street, 451.

The tour lasts an impressive 12 hours, giving participants ample time to explore:

1. The indigenous town of Toconao, featuring an 18th-century church and national monuments.
2. The Chaxa lagoon, where flamingos can be spotted (time permitting).
3. The Piedras Rojas trail, offering a captivating one-hour hike through the unique reddish landscape.

Throughout the journey, travelers will enjoy an included breakfast and lunch, making this a comprehensive and immersive high-plateau experience.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy. This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This gives travelers the freedom to adjust their plans without penalty should any unexpected changes arise.

The tour’s "reserve now, pay later" option also provides added convenience, as customers can secure their spot without having to pay immediately. This combination of liberal cancellation terms and deferred payment helps ensure a stress-free booking experience.

Ultimately, the tour’s cancellation policy caters to the needs of modern travelers, providing the flexibility and convenience they require.

Pricing and Payment

The tour’s pricing and payment options provide travelers with flexibility and convenience. Priced at SEK 1,021 per person, the tour offers several appealing features:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to adjust their plans without penalty.

2. A "Reserve now & pay later" policy, enabling participants to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.

3. Inclusion of essential services such as hotel pickup, transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, and both breakfast and lunch, providing a comprehensive package.

These pricing and payment arrangements cater to the needs of travelers, making the tour an accessible and attractive option for exploring the stunning Salar de Atacama and the lakes of the high plateau.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour utilizes transportation by bus to take visitors from their San Pedro de Atacama hotels to the various scenic locations throughout the day, according to the provided information.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Participants?

The tour does not appear to have any specific restrictions on the number of participants. The information provided suggests the tour is operated for groups, without mentioning any limits on group size.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Larger Groups?

The tour does not appear to offer any discounts or packages for larger groups. Pricing is listed as SEK 1,021 per person, with no mention of group rates. The tour’s capacity and flexibility for larger groups is unclear from the provided information.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Meet Specific Preferences?

The tour can be customized to meet specific preferences. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary, such as adjusting stops or adding additional activities, though this may incur extra costs. The tour company aims to accommodate reasonable requests.

How Do I Communicate With the Tour Guide During the Excursion?

Travelers can communicate with the Spanish-speaking tour guide throughout the excursion. As the guide leads the group, they’ll provide live commentary and welcome questions, ensuring an informative and engaging experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

The "Red Stones, Salar de Atacama and Lakes of the High Plateau" tour offers an unforgettable adventure in the stunning Atacama region. Exploring the unique reddish terrains, emerald-hued lagoons, and diverse wildlife, this immersive 12-hour experience promises breathtaking natural beauty, despite mixed customer reviews. With hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and delicious meals included, this tour provides an opportunity to witness the captivating landscapes of this fascinating desert destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: