Nestled in the heart of Chile’s northern Atacama Desert lies the captivating town of San Pedro de Atacama. Here, adventurers can embark on an unforgettable day trip that showcases the region’s stunning natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring salt flats to the serene lagoons, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike. With an itinerary that includes breathtaking viewpoints, unique wildlife, and a delectable meal, it’s no wonder this tour has become a must-do experience for those exploring the enchanting Atacama Desert. What secrets await those who dare to uncover them?
Key Points
- This 7-hour day trip from San Pedro de Atacama provides an immersive experience exploring the Atacama Desert’s stunning landscapes, including Licancabur Volcano and Quepiaco River.
- The tour visits the Pacanas Monks’ geological wonders, Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats, and culminates with photography opportunities at Crystal and Black lagoons.
- Priced at $83.50 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, breakfast, and lunch, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Participants can observe local wildlife, such as vicuñas and flamingos, and should bring warm clothing, a camera, and water for the high-altitude conditions.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility or health issues, and alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The San Pedro de Atacama: Atacama Desert and Salt Flats Day Trip offers a comprehensive tour of the stunning Atacama region.
Priced from $83.50 per person, the 7-hour excursion includes hotel pickup, breakfast, and lunch.
Travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Lickancabur Volcano, explore the Quepiaco River, and visit the Pacanas Monks’ giant volcanic structures.
The tour also takes visitors to the Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats, where they can spot local wildlife like vicuñas and flamingos.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this day trip provides a convenient and flexible way to discover the Atacama Desert’s natural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Antofagasta Region.
Itinerary and Highlights
On this captivating Atacama Desert and Salt Flats day trip, guests embark on a journey that showcases the region’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders. The tour begins with a breakfast and panoramic views of the majestic Licancabur Volcano. Guests then explore the Quepiaco River, admiring its unique environmental features. Next, they visit the awe-inspiring Pacanas Monks, giant volcanic structures that demonstrate geological phenomena. The tour progresses to the Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats, where visitors can spot local wildlife like vicuñas and flamingos. The day concludes with a visit to the Crystal and Black lagoons, offering ample photography opportunities.
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Licancabur Viewpoint | Breakfast and scenic views of the volcano |
| Quepiaco River | Stunning landscapes and environmental insights |
| Pacanas Monks | Giant volcanic structures showcasing geological phenomena |
| Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats | Unique scenery with local fauna like vicuñas and flamingos |
| Crystal and Black Lagoons | Photography opportunities |
Inclusions and Exclusions
This day trip to the Atacama Desert and Salt Flats includes several key features to enhance the experience.
The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious breakfast and lunch, as well as a knowledgeable live guide who can share insights in both Spanish and English.
Transportation and personal water are also included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including:
- Children under 8 years
- Pregnant women
- Those with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, high blood pressure, or over 70 years
Participants should come prepared with warm clothing, a camera, and water, as the tour reaches altitudes of 4,800 meters, which can be challenging for some.
Preparation and Recommendations
To prepare for this day trip, visitors should pack comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as warm layers like gloves and a headscarf.
It’s also recommended to bring a camera and water, as the tour reaches high altitudes of 4,800 meters. Alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted on the tour.
Importantly, this excursion isn’t suitable for children under 8 years, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, high blood pressure, or those over 70 years.
Due to the high elevation, the tour isn’t recommended for people with respiratory or heart conditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Feedback
The tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 13 customer reviews.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, who provided valuable insights during the tour. However, some found the tour to be slightly expensive compared to similar offerings. The cold weather during the tour was also mentioned as a potential consideration.
The tour seems to offer good value, with highlights including:
- Stunning landscapes and environmental insights
- Opportunities to see unique local fauna
- Inclusion of breakfast and lunch
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
- Panoramic views of the Lickancabur Volcano
Pickup and Hotel Accommodations
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation for participants. This ensures a seamless start and end to the day trip, allowing travelers to focus on the remarkable sights of the Atacama Desert and Salt Flats. The pickup service caters to various hotel locations in the San Pedro de Atacama area, offering a hassle-free way to begin the adventure.
| Hotel Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown San Pedro de Atacama | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Kimal Hotel | 8:15 AM | 4:45 PM |
| Alto Atacama Desert Lodge | 8:30 AM | 4:30 PM |
| Explora Atacama | 8:45 AM | 4:15 PM |
| Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa | 9:00 AM | 4:00 PM |
Scenic Viewpoints and Landscapes
After the convenient hotel pickup, the day trip embarks on a captivating journey through the Atacama Desert’s scenic viewpoints and landscapes.
The first stop is the stunning Lickancabur Viewpoint, where guests enjoy breakfast while taking in the majestic views of the volcano.
Next, the tour explores the Quepiaco River, showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Visitors then discover the Pacanas Monks, giant volcanic structures that provide insights into the area’s geological phenomena.
The day continues with visits to the Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats, where diverse local fauna, including vicuñas and flamingos, can be observed.
The tour culminates with photography opportunities at the Crystal and Black Lagoons.
Local Fauna and Photography
Along the tour, visitors have the chance to observe the unique local fauna of the Atacama Desert.
One of the highlights is the chance to spot vicuñas, the smallest member of the camelid family, grazing peacefully in the salt flats. Flamingos can also be seen in the Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro Salt Flats, their vibrant colors contrasting beautifully against the stark white landscapes.
The tour provides ample opportunities for photography, with the Crystal and Black lagoons offering stunning backdrops for capturing the region’s natural beauty. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to make the most of the photogenic scenery and wildlife throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour. Customers can request a private tour for an additional fee, which allows them to have a more personalized experience with just their group.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that the tour includes breakfast and lunch, so bringing additional provisions may not be necessary. The tour operator likely recommends against bringing alcohol or drugs.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?
The best time of year to take this tour is during the dry season from May to October when weather conditions are generally mild and ideal for exploring the Atacama Desert and salt flats.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 15 people. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience and ensures each traveler gets attentive service from the guide.
Can I Book This Tour in a Different Language Besides Spanish and English?
The tour accommodates multiple languages – customers can book the tour in Spanish or English. While no other languages are explicitly mentioned, it’s best to inquire about any additional language options when making the reservation.
The Sum Up
This day trip through the Atacama Desert and its mesmerizing salt flats offers an unforgettable experience. Travelers can explore breathtaking landscapes, observe unique wildlife, and capture the enchanting beauty of the region’s lagoons and volcanoes. With hotel pickup, breakfast, and lunch included, it’s a perfect adventure for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike, making it a must-do on any San Pedro de Atacama itinerary.
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