Valley of the Moon: the Unmissable Tour

The Valley of the Moon tour is an unforgettable adventure that transports visitors into a surreal, alien-like landscape in the heart of Chile’s Atacama Desert. This guided excursion immerses travelers in the region’s breathtaking geological formations, from towering sand dunes to otherworldly amphitheaters. While the tour’s logistics may pose some challenges, the sheer beauty of this natural wonder makes it a must-do for any adventurer seeking to explore the limits of our planet. With round-trip transportation, a picnic lunch, and exclusive park access, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and discover the majesty of the Atacama.

Key Points

• A guided 5-hour tour covering approximately 13 km in San Pedro de Atacama and showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Valle de la Luna Nature Sanctuary.
• Highlights include the massive Duna Mayor dune, the unique Tres Marias rock formations, the stunning Amphitheater, and the Cordillera de la Sal mountain range.
• The tour provides a serene and captivating experience, with opportunities to witness the dramatic geological features shaped by millions of years of tectonic forces.
• Inclusions such as round-trip transportation, a picnic, and entrance to the Valle de la Luna Park enhance the overall experience.
• The tour is not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, and proper preparation is advised.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Valle de la Luna tour is one of the most popular excursions in San Pedro de Atacama. The 5-hour tour takes visitors approximately 13 km from the town to explore the unique rock formations created by tectonic forces over four million years ago.

Priced from CLP 1,058 per person, the tour offers cinematic landscapes resembling the Moon’s surface, with key points including Duna Mayor, Tres Marias, the Amphitheater, and the Cordillera de la Sal.

Visitors can enjoy the silence and beauty of the Atacama Desert, part of the National Flamingo Reserve and a declared Nature Sanctuary.

The tour includes a guided experience, round-trip transportation, a picnic, and entrance to the Valle de la Luna Park.

Cinematic Landscapes

Cinematic landscapes unfold as visitors explore the Valle de la Luna, where towering rock formations mimic the surface of the Moon. Dunes, pinnacles, and craters characterize the otherworldly terrain, a result of tectonic forces shaping the Atacama Desert over millions of years. Key points of interest include the dramatic Duna Mayor, the three distinct rock formations of Tres Marias, and the vast natural amphitheater carved into the Cordillera de la Sal.

Feature	Description
Duna Mayor	Massive dune with striking ridges and contours
Tres Marias	Three unique rock pillars reaching skyward
Amphitheater	Vast natural amphitheater carved into the salt mountains

The sheer scale and alien beauty of this protected natural sanctuary leave a lasting impression on all who witness its grandeur.

Key Points of Interest

Amidst the surreal landscape, several key points of interest captivate visitors to Valle de la Luna.

The Duna Mayor, a towering sand dune, offers panoramic views of the surrounding lunar-like terrain.

Nearby, the Tres Marias rock formations resemble three mysterious figures, carved by the elements over time.

At the Amphitheater, visitors can witness the stunning interplay of light and shadow, as the sun casts its rays across the dramatic, sculpted cliffs.

Finally, the Cordillera de la Sal, a mountain range made of salt, showcases the region’s unique geological wonders.

These diverse and awe-inspiring sites make Valle de la Luna a must-visit destination in San Pedro de Atacama.

Nature Sanctuary Experience

Valle de la Luna is part of the National Flamingo Reserve and has been declared a Nature Sanctuary, offering visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of the Atacama Desert.

Visitors can absorb the profound silence and captivating landscapes that resemble the Moon’s surface. The tour takes guests to key points like Duna Mayor, Tres Marias, and the Amphitheater, where the Cordillera de la Sal dominates the horizon.

This protected area allows travelers to witness the dramatic tectonic forces that shaped the area’s iconic rock formations millions of years ago, creating a cinematic and otherworldly experience.

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Inclusions and Highlights

The Valle de la Luna tour offers an array of inclusions to enhance the experience for visitors. A knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing stories and curiosities about the unique rock formations.

Round-trip transportation from San Pedro de Atacama is provided, and a picnic with cold cuts, cookies, snacks, and typical drinks is included. Entrance to the Valle de la Luna Park is also part of the package.

Highlights of the tour include the cinematic landscapes resembling the Moon’s surface, key points like Duna Mayor and Tres Marias, and the opportunity to absorb the serene beauty of the Atacama Desert, which is part of the National Flamingo Reserve and a declared Nature Sanctuary.

Booking and Cancellation

Customers can book the Valle de la Luna tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This reserve now & pay later option allows booking without upfront payment, providing flexibility.

Pick-up is included from designated zones in San Pedro de Atacama, making it convenient for travelers.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, such as children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments, so customers should review the important information before booking.

While the tour generally receives positive feedback, one review highlighted issues with pickup and communication, so customers should consider this when making their reservation.

Important Considerations

It’s important to note that the Valle de la Luna tour may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.

Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a jacket, and breathable clothing to withstand the desert environment.

Although the tour offers a chance to witness the stunning lunar-like landscapes, customers have reported issues with pickup and communication, which resulted in an overall rating of 1 out of 5 based on a single review.

Careful consideration of these important factors can help ensure a positive and memorable experience on the Valley of the Moon tour.

Customer Feedback

Feedback from customers provides mixed perspectives on the Valle de la Luna tour. Some reviewers express dissatisfaction with the experience, citing issues with pickup arrangements and communication problems.

However, the tour maintains an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on a single review.

Key customer feedback points:

1. Negative experience with pickup and communication issues.
2. Lack of clarity on meeting locations and transportation coordination.
3. Positive overall experience despite minor logistical challenges.

The tour’s strong rating suggests that the cinematic landscapes and unique geological formations of the Valle de la Luna continue to captivate visitors, despite the need for improved logistical coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Is the Weather Usually in San Pedro De Atacama?

The weather in San Pedro de Atacama is typically dry, sunny, and mild throughout the year. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, often reaching the mid-20s Celsius, while nighttime can be quite cool due to the desert climate.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Valle De La Luna?

The best time to visit Valle de la Luna is during the dry season from May to September when the weather’s mild and the desert landscape is at its most dramatic. Crowds are smaller too.

Are There Any Nearby Attractions to Explore After the Tour?

After the Valle de la Luna tour, visitors can explore nearby attractions like the Moon Valley Caves or trek to the salt mines of Salar de Atacama. These offer additional insights into the region’s unique geology and landscapes.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the Valle de la Luna tour. However, a picnic with cold cuts, cookies, snacks, and typical drinks is already included in the tour package.

Is There Any Age Limit or Restriction for the Tour?

The tour has age restrictions, as it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments. Participants should be in good physical condition to enjoy the cinematic landscapes of the Valle de la Luna.

The Sum Up

The Valley of the Moon tour offers a captivating exploration of the Atacama Desert‘s breathtaking landscapes. From the towering Duna Mayor to the serene Amphitheater, this immersive experience showcases the region’s unique geology and natural beauty. With convenient transportation, a delightful picnic, and access to the Valle de la Luna Park, it’s an unmissable adventure for anyone seeking an otherworldly desert escape.

You can check if your dates are available here: