The Atacama Desert, one of the world’s most captivating landscapes, beckons adventurous travelers to explore its breathtaking wonders at their own pace. The Self Drive Experience in the Atacama Desert offers a remarkable 5-day adventure, allowing visitors to craft their itinerary and discover awe-inspiring destinations like the otherworldly Moon Valley, the steaming El Tatio Geysers, and the serene Laguna Chaxa. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfast, and a rental vehicle, this package provides the freedom to take in the desert’s stunning natural beauty. Those seeking a truly immersive and personalized Atacama experience won’t want to miss this remarkable opportunity.
Key Points
- Self-drive 5-day tour in Atacama Desert, priced from $733.39 per person, including 4 nights at Casa Don Tomas Hotel.
- Offers flexibility for customized desert exploration with 4-day car rental, unlimited kilometers, and essential insurances included.
- Itinerary covers highlights like Moon Valley, El Tatio Geysers, Laguna Chaxa, and Lagunas Miscanti and Miñiques.
- Buffet breakfast provided daily, while lunch and dinner allow for local dining experience.
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refund for cancellations made 72 hours prior, subject to availability.
Overview of the Experience
The self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating landscapes of this remote region at their own pace.
Lasting for 5 days, this private tour allows your group to discover the desert’s otherworldly sights without the constraints of a group itinerary. Priced from $733.39 per person, the experience includes 4 nights of accommodation at the Casa Don Tomas Hotel, with confirmation typically received within 48 hours subject to availability.
Whether you’re seeking an adventurous getaway or a chance to learn about the Atacama’s natural wonders, this self-drive tour provides the flexibility and independence to craft your ideal desert exploration.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Calama.
Accommodation and Meals
Four nights of accommodation at the Casa Don Tomas Hotel are included in the self-drive experience. Buffet breakfast is provided each morning, though lunch and dinner are not included. This allows travelers the flexibility to explore local dining options throughout their stay. The accommodation and meal details are summarized in the table below.
Accommodation | Meals |
---|---|
4 Nights at Casa Don Tomas Hotel | Buffet Breakfast (4) |
Free Parking at the Hotel | Lunch Not Included |
Breakfast Included | Dinner Not Included |
Transportation Details
Included in the self-drive experience is a 4-day car rental of a category D vehicle, such as a Nissan XTrail 4X2 or similar.
The rental includes unlimited kilometers and local taxes. Travelers can pick up and drop off the car at Calama Airport around 12:00 PM or at the downtown rental office.
Free parking is available at the hotel. The package also covers essential insurances like CWD, PAI, and SACA.
Plus, GPS tracking is provided to ensure a seamless self-drive adventure in the Atacama Desert. Travelers can extend their rental duration or add extras at the hotel as needed.
Insurance and Extras
The self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert includes essential insurances such as Collision Damage Waiver (CWD), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and Supplemental Accident Coverage (SACA).
These insurances provide comprehensive protection for the rental vehicle and the travelers. Plus, the package includes GPS tracking, ensuring your safety and allowing you to navigate the vast desert with confidence.
Customers can also opt for extra days and additional services at the hotel, tailoring the experience to their preferences.
However, personal travel insurance isn’t included, so it’s recommended to secure appropriate coverage before embarking on this adventure.
- CWD, PAI, and SACA insurances included
- GPS tracking provided
- Extra days and extras at the hotel available
Itinerary and Activities
This self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert offers a tailor-made itinerary with a detailed day-by-day breakdown. The schedule includes visits to various activities and museums, as well as suggested restaurants to explore the local cuisine. Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available for families traveling with young children. Most travelers can participate in the activities, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Day | Activities |
---|---|
1 | Moon Valley, Atacama Salt Flats |
2 | El Tatio Geysers, Toconao Village |
3 | Laguna Chaxa, Piedras Rojas |
4 | Lagunas Miscanti and Miñiques |
- Shared Arrival Transfer: El Loa Airport to San Pedro De Atacama Hotels
- Calama (Chile) – Uyuni Salt Flats (Bolivia) Private Transfer
- San Pedro De Atacama: 2-Day Tour Visiting Tatio Geysers & the Moon Valley
- Shared Transfer From Calama Airport to San Pedro De Atacama
- Highlights of Altiplano in an 4WD Overland Expedition
- 2-Day Tour to the Salar De Uyuni From San Pedro De Atacama by Bus
Trip Highlights
Exploring the captivating landscapes of the Atacama Desert, this self-drive adventure unveils a realm of breathtaking natural wonders.
Highlights of the journey include:
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Witnessing the dramatic contrast of the Moon Valley, where towering rock formations and sand dunes create a lunar-like terrain.
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Soaking in the thermal waters of Termas de Puritama, a series of natural hot springs nestled amidst the desert.
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Discovering the ancient Inca ruins at Pukarā de Quitor, a fortified settlement that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
This self-guided exploration seamlessly combines the freedom of a road trip with the opportunity to take in the desert’s remarkable natural beauty and historical significance.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
A full refund is available if the reservation is canceled at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled start date.
However, cancellations made within 72 hours of the start date will result in a 50% charge.
No-shows or early departure won’t be refunded.
Modifications to the booking, such as changing the start date or number of participants, can be made up to 72 hours before the trip, subject to availability.
The self-drive experience is non-transferable, and the rental car must be returned to the original pickup location.
Additional fees may apply for extra services or damages.
Guests are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.
Recap
The Self Drive Experience in the Atacama Desert offers an unforgettable adventure through one of the world’s most stunning landscapes. With the freedom to customize your itinerary, you’ll discover breathtaking natural wonders at your own pace. Enjoy the comfort of 4-night accommodation, daily meals, and a rental vehicle, all for a competitive price. This self-guided journey promises an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the Atacama’s captivating beauty.
More Tour Reviews in Calama
- Calama (Chile) – Uyuni Salt Flats (Bolivia) Private Transfer
- Highlights of Altiplano in an 4WD Overland Expedition
- 3-Day Exploring San Pedro De Atacama
- San Pedro De Atacama Highlights in 3 Days! – Moon Valley & Geysers Del Tatio
- Highlights of Altiplano in an 4WD Overland Expedition
- Shared Transfer From Calama Airport to San Pedro De Atacama