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The Atacama Desert, located in Northern Chile, is one of the driest places on Earth and offers a unique travel experience. From otherworldly landscapes to fascinating cultural experiences, the Atacama Desert has something for everyone. Here’s your complete travel guide to exploring this incredible destination.
Getting There
The best way to reach Atacama Desert is by flying into Calama, which has regular flights from Santiago, the capital of Chile. Once you arrive in Calama, you can take a shuttle or taxi to the town of San Pedro de Atacama, which serves as the gateway to the desert.
When to Go
The best time to visit the Atacama Desert is between March and May or between September and November when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. During the summer months of December to February, the temperatures can soar to over 100°F during the day, making it too hot for most travelers. In contrast, the winter months of June to August can be chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night.
Things to Do
1. Stargazing: The Atacama Desert is famous for its clear night skies, making it a perfect spot for stargazing. Visitors can join organized tours to learn about the constellations, planets, and galaxies visible in the desert’s night sky.
2. Explore the desert: The stark landscapes of the Atacama are a unique feature of the region. Visitors can hike through the vast desertscape, stop by towering sand dunes, moon-like valleys, and salt flats. Some of the notable places to visit include Valle de la Luna, Valle de la Muerte, Salar de Atacama, and Piedras Rojas.
3. Visit the Geysers: Tucked away in the mountains, El Tatio Geysers is one of the Atacama’s most popular attractions. El Tatio Geysers has the highest geyser field in the southern hemisphere, with spouts of steaming hot water that shoot 6 – 10 meters above the earth’s surface. It’s a sight not to be missed, but prepare for an early wake-up call as the best time to visit is at dawn.
4. Learn about ancient cultures: The Atacama Desert is steeped in history and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the region’s first inhabitants—the Atacama people. Check out the Atacama Museum in San Pedro de Atacama to get a glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian past.
What to Pack
The Atacama Desert is incredibly dry, and the sun can be harsh. When packing for your trip, make sure you bring sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. You’ll also want to pack warm clothes for the chilly evenings and mornings, and lighter clothes for the hot days. It’s always a good idea to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan to explore the desert’s more remote areas, be sure to pack enough food and water as there are not many places to purchase supplies.
Conclusion
The Atacama Desert is a place that will stay with you long after you leave. From its otherworldly landscapes to its rich cultural history, there is something special about this destination. Whether you want to explore the desert on foot, gaze at the stars, or learn about ancient cultures, the Atacama Desert has it all. Plan your trip today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
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