Ultimate Atacama Desert Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
This was the least exciting part of the trip to Chile —or so I thought. "What will we explore? The driest desert on Earth.. Just endless stretches of the lifeless landscape? To my surprise, the landscape of Atacama Desert transformed with every passing minute, its shifting colors and subtle nuances were already enough to drive me crazy.. Then, out of nowhere, vicuñas appeared. And that thermal spring—where did it even come from? Is this the best skies on Earth? Am I at the Dune film set? The Atacama Desert turned out to be an extraordinary mix of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a surprisingly affordable destination compared to Patagonia or Rapa Nui during our trip to Chile. I have to admit—Atacama Desert ended up being my favorite place in all of Chile! ¡Alabalti Alabalti! Meaning welcome in the recently extinct language of Kunza, the indigenougs language of the Atacameños.
Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Roja Atacama Desert
You can easily find an affordable domestic flights from Santiago to Atacama desert. It is only 2 hours flight to reach Calama (CJC) which is considered to be the airport for Atacama Desert. Then either rent a car or take a shuttle bus to San Pedro de Atacama, it takes 1 hour 15 minutes. Your base will be the cute town of San Pedro de Atacama. The drive may seem unassuming at first, but keep your eyes open for wild vicuñas as the landscape transforms dramatically on your way to San Pedro. If there are no rental cars available in Calama, you can take shuttle bus operating between Calama Airport till San Pedro de Atacama town center. It takes 1 hour 15 minutes and costs around 19 USD/person one way , 24 USD/person round trip. The shuttle operates between 7 am till 9 pm. You can reserve your transfer from this link. On your return, you might want to opt for a more comfortable yet economical choice, such as taking a shared van for around €28 per person. You can book it through this link.
from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama
Vicunas, on the road from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama
The road becomes better and better as we get close to San Pedro de Atamaca
Free mirador for sunset, 10 min. before arriving to San Pedro de Atacama from Calama
best time to travel to atacama desert
We visited Atacama on Christmas, maybe the least recommended season due to hot weather and crowded. A part from the crowded restaurants, it was just fine! I think it was also nice to visit San Pedro town with many people, crowded on the streets, lively and joyful. The weather was hot and sun burny during the day, but we had the wind almost all the time with us. If you arrange the most difficult excursionss like Valle de Muerte and Valle de la Luna not in midday, you will be just fine. We did both of them in midday though. Due to the altitute of Atacama, which is above 2200 mt. the weather is not as deadly as a normal desert. Also the dry weather doesnt feel you the temperature as hot as it is. There were no clouds so our stargazing tour was also perfectly fine. The temperatures during the day was around 30degree celsius 30° Celsius is equal to 86° Fahrenheit but felt 2-3 degree celsius less due to the dryness. In the evening dropped drastically to 10 with a mimnun of 6-7 degrees minimum at later hours. we needed a hot jacket and cappello. Howeever the best season to visit Atacama is considered Winter from June to September with a max. around 20 degrees and minimum 0. To the surprise of everybody, it may even rain on January and February, the average day of rain is 11 per month on january and february.
Sunburned by the Atacama Desert: How the Wind Concealed the Intense Sun at 2200 m in Valle della Luna
WHAT TO PACK FOR ATACAMA DESERT
Layers, Layers, and More Layers: Trekking shoes are ideal, but we managed fine in our trusty white sneakers—though they turned a bit reddish after exploring Valle de la Muerte and Valle de la Luna. For other spots, they worked perfectly. During my visit to Valle de la Luna, I wore capri trekking pants and a t-shirt but ended up with sunburned arms, neck, and chest. Lesson learned! Here’s my packing list to help you stay comfortable and protected: Daytime Essentials:
Long-sleeve technical shirt: Protects against the intense desert sun.
Light wind jacket: Perfect for layering during cooler daytime winds.
Sunscreen: A must for shielding your skin from UV rays.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright desert glare.
Hat: Opt for one with neck coverage for extra sun protection.
Light trekking trousers: Comfortable and practical for exploring.
Flask: Stay hydrated in the dry climate.
Nighttime Must-Haves:
Warm jacket: Essential for chilly evenings.
Beanie: Keeps you cozy, especially after dusty days.
Bonus Items:
Swimsuit: Yes, you can swim in Atacama Desert! Pack one swimsuit for Laguna Cejar and Puritama Hot Springs.
Lip balm and moisturizer: Combat the desert’s dryness.
Pack smart, layer up, and enjoy your Atacama adventure!
Watch out for wildlife! Road signs are amazing in the Atacama Desert
Essential Tips for the Atacama Desert:
If you are planning a trip to San Pedro de Atacama then you must know these travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable:
Car Rental Tips in Atacama Desert
Book Your Rental Car in Advance – Secure your car rental at Calama Airport before arriving. Prices are lower, and availability is better compared to San Pedro de Atacama.
Avoid Renting in Calama City – Calama has security concerns, so it's best to rent your car directly from Calama Airport.
Save Money on San Pedro de Atacama Car Rentals: Rent at Calama Airport. Avoid higher prices and larger, unnecessary vehicles in San Pedro. Calama Airport offers smaller, more affordable cars. We rented a compact SUV at Calama and it handled the diverse terrain perfectly, proving you don't need a large, expensive vehicle to explore the Atacama. Plus, you will save time and money on trasfers between Calama and San Pedro.
Choose the Right Car – A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for comfort. A 4x4 is ideal for rougher terrains, but not always necessary unless visiting remote locations like Laguna Baltinache. For Laguna Baltinache I would recommend you a professional organized tour. (clicking on my link I may get a small commission at no cost on your purchase.)
Drive Straight to San Pedro de Atacama – Avoid unnecessary stops in Calama City for safety reasons. The drive to San Pedro is only about an hour and more enjoyable in a rental car than on a shuttle.
Our trusty compact SUV, rented at Calama Airport, ready for adventure in the Atacama Desert.
Park Entrance & Attractions Tips in Atacama Desert
Reserve All Park Entrances in Advance – Tickets must be booked online beforehand, as many attractions do not sell them at the entrance.
Internet Access is Essential – If you need last-minute reservations, you’ll require internet access. Consider an eSIM like Yesim for reliable connectivity.
Plan Visits to Lagunas and Salinas Rojas – Tickets must be used in a specific order, so plan accordingly to avoid missing out on these stunning sites.
Safety Tips & Altitude Considerations for the Atacama Desert
A trip through the Atacama Desert is an unforgettable one, but its extreme conditions require careful planning.
Altitude Awareness: Most of the area, including San Pedro de Atacama and the Altiplano, is above 2,400 meters (7,800 feet) in altitude. Move slowly, consume lots of water, and allow time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
Hydration & Sun Protection: The arid desert environment and strong UV radiation can lead to dehydration and sunburn very quickly. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Temperature Swings: Days are hot, but nights are below freezing. Wear layers to be comfortable. Road & Travel Safety: Off-road travel is necessary at most locations. Rent a 4x4, carry extra fuel, and inform someone of your plans before departing.
Launching off a towering rock in Valle de la Muerte, Chile, with the desert's surreal and rugged beauty stretching out behind me.
How Many Days Do You Need in Atacama?
We spent 3 days in the Atacama Desert, which allowed us to explore the most famous attractions, but we felt that 4 days would be ideal to experience even more. If we had an extra day, we would have taken an early morning tour to the El Tatio Geysers, one of the highest geyser fields in the world. Tours start at dawn because the geysers are most active in the morning due to the cold temperatures, creating spectacular steam columns against the sunrise. Additionally, we would have booked a tour to Lagunas Baltinache (Hidden Lagoons). While it’s possible to drive there, the road conditions are rough and can be dangerous, so joining a guided tour is the safest and most stress-free option.
The road to San Pedro de Atacama is a journey through otherworldly beauty. This panoramic view captures the vast, exaggerated landscapes that make this place feel like another planet.
3 day atacama desert itinerary
Here is our 3-day Atacama Desert tour, including the highlights. If you have 4 days, we suggest you add the El Tatio Geysers and Lagunas Baltinache for a more complete experience. Day 1: Explore Valle de la Luna & Sunset Views Arrival in San Pedro de Atacama and acclimatization. Visit Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) in the afternoon – stroll through surreal rock formations and observe an unforgettable sunset. Enjoy a relaxed evening in town, trying out local cuisine. Day 2: Salt Flats and High-Altitude Lagoons Stop by Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas in the morning – a stunning mix of blue lagoons, red rock formations, and flamingo-dotted salt flats. Go to Laguna Chaxa to see more flamingos in the Salar de Atacama. Free evening in San Pedro de Atacama or excursions to local markets. Day 3: Valle de la Muerte, Puritama Hot Springs & Stargazing Start the day with a short walk in Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) and Valle de Marte (Mars Valley), which are famous for their reddish sand dunes. Spend the afternoon unwinding at the Puritama Hot Springs, a collection of natural hot pools in a picturesque canyon. At night, take a stargazing tour – Atacama's clear skies make it one of the best places in the world to view the Milky Way and planets! Day 4: El Tatio Geysers & Lagunas Baltinache and or Laguna Cejar Wake up early, prior to sunrise, for an excursion to El Tatio Geysers, the third-largest geyser field in the world, where sunrise creates incredible steam columns. Afternoon excursion to Lagunas Baltinache (Hidden Lagoons) – floating in the salt waters is very similar to floating in the Dead Sea. The route is not in good condition, so I highly recommend that you take a tour rather than driving yourself. This itinerary ensures that you get to see Atacama’s best landscapes, natural wonders, and adventure sports in a matter of days. If you are a photographer, trekker, or star gazer, you’ll want to stay even longer!✨
Top Atacama Desert Attractions & Must-See Places
A breathtaking stargazing experience in the Atacama Desert, where the clear skies reveal a dazzling display of stars, planets, and the Milky Way in one of the world's best astronomical destinations.
STARGAZING ATACAMA DESSERT
Stargazing: A Celestial Wonderland Did you know there is a "best place" on earth to observe the sky and the stars and that best place is in the Atacama Desert? Due to its low humidity and minimal light pollution Atacama is considered best place for stargazing in all Earth!. San Pedro de Atacama is not only hosting world-renowned observatories and astronomers from all over the world, but also offers tourists excursions and life time experience to the tourits to observe the skies! Looking ahead, the world’s largest telescope is set to be completed here in 2034—I already take my note on my calendar!! How to attend a Stargazing tour in atacama: If you are lucky, Alma Observatory sometimes accept tourist visits free of charge. They even organize a free of charge bus tour. But this is a day visit from 9 to 11 and only to learn about the technology. Check from their official website if they accept visitors. On this link of European European Southern Observatoryinstead where I found more information about this tour. At the time we visited it was not possiible to visit them. So I tracked from the internet an astronomic tour guide, we communicated on whatsapp which turned out to be as expensive as 150 eur per person. Not knowing what was expecting us we declined as it seemed overprised. Instead, on a travel agency we purchased a tour with 35000 CLP around 35usd/eur per person. It was a group tour of around 15 people, bus ride, an aperitive and most importantly a stargazing photography taken by our tour guide, an actual astronoer after the tour. Astrophotograpy which was a branch of photography that i was unaware of. if you like to have more information I have found this website very interesing. We had two astronomers guiding and showing us with the telescopes incredible skies and stars and planets. I was impressed with Saturn and Jupiter with their rings, nebulas, Orions scuda which is not visibile in other places on earth for the last 20 years. You also see the skies from a different perspective as normally we live in the Northen Hemisphere. I mean everything was mindblowing for me and I wasnt expecting to be that impressed before the tour. you shoudnt be missing this tour even if you are not into the astronomy like me.. The stargazing toursare not available during the full moons and cloudy nights. Here and below I leave a link of the same kind of stargazing tour we took. I may earn a small commission on your purchase at no additional cost to you!
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
Entrance Fee: $14 USD per person
Advance Booking Required: Tickets must be purchased in advance. Get your tickets from the official website.
Location: Just a 10-minute drive (6 km) from San Pedro de Atacama, this iconic Chilean desert destination is famous for its breathtaking, moon-like landscapes.
Last-Minute Tickets: If available, you can purchase tickets at the automatic machines at the entrance.
Must-Know Tips for Exploring Valle de la LunaThere are 4 main stops inside Valle de la Luna: 1st STOP: Closed (at the time of visit)
This stop, featuring caves, was closed due to safety concerns.
2nd STOP: Duna Mayor (Higher Dune Trail) – The Best Viewpoint
Most scenic and famous stop—take your time here!
Follow the left-side path for panoramic views (if afraid of heights, take the right).
Don’t start your hike from the traffic road; the steep sand climb is difficult at high altitude.
From the top, you’ll see the amphitheater rock formations and the Atacama Desert’s volcanoes, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
3rd STOP: The Three Miradores – Most Challenging
Toughest stop due to sandy climbs.
If visiting all three viewpoints, allow at least 1.5 hours.
While the Duna Mayor is the highlight, the Miradores still offer spectacular views of the valley.
4th STOP: Las Salinas – Ancient Salt Mines & Caves
Features two parking areas connected by a hill trail.
Explore old salt mines and listen to the unique cracking sounds of salt at the mine cave near the second parking lot.
5th STOP: Tres Marías – Iconic Rock Formations
Quick stop with a short trail leading to the famous Three Marías rock formations.
Perfect for capturing photos of Valle de la Luna’s dramatic desert landscape.
For an unforgettable experience, plan ahead, bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes, and enjoy the otherworldly beauty of Valle de la Luna! 🌙🚶♂️
La Duna Mayor, The Higher Dune Trail in the Valle de la Luna, Atacama
The third stop in the Valley of the Moon, Valle de la Luna, Atacama Dessert, Chile
Admiring the Big Dune, Valle de la Luna
Valle de la Luna Tickets: Bonus Sunset Viewpoints. Your Valle de la Luna ticket also grants access to Mirador de Kari (Piedra del Coyote), one of the most breathtaking panoramic spots to watch the sunset. This viewpoint is located about 7 km outside the park on the road to Calama. To secure a good spot for sunset, visitors usually arrive early. When we visited in December, the last admission was at 19:20, but it’s best to check with the Valle de la Luna entrance office for updated entry times. We were exhausted after a full day of exploring and couldn’t wait for sunset, but if you have the energy, this is one of the best places in the Atacama Desert to watch the sky transform over the surreal Mars-like landscape.
Scenic view from Mirador de Kari (Piedra del Coyote) overlooking the vast Atacama Desert, with dramatic cliffs and a golden sunset casting shadows over the rocky terrain.
Tres Marias Valle de la Luna Atacama
Valle del la Luna, moon-like terrain in the heart of the Atacama Desert
Laguna Miscanti, Laguna Miñique and Salar de las Aguas Calientes Piedras Rojas
Exploring Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas in Atacama Reserve a full day to visit the stunning Lagunas Altiplánicas and Salar de Aguas Calientes/Piedras Rojas, some of the most breathtaking Atacama Desert attractions. Tickets can only be purchased online in advance and must be collected in Socaire, a small town about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from San Pedro de Atacama. If you’re short on time, you can choose to visit only the lagoons or only the salar. In my opinion, the Lagunas Altiplánicas are more beautiful, but both sites are worth seeing. If you purchase a ticket for both, you must follow the correct order (lagoons first, then salar), as they will check this at the entrance. Entrance Fee Information:
Entrance fee for 2 people: 30,000 CLP (Chilean Pesos). This fee covers access to both the Lagunas Altiplánicas and Salar de Aguas Calientes/Piedras Rojas.
Socaire: Ticket Collection Point for Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas in Atacama
Wildlife in Atacama Desert: Encountering Nature on the Road to Lagunas Altiplanicas
The Altiplanic Lagoons shown on map at the entrance
The Altiplanic Lagoons, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters, are among the top three must-see sites in the Atacama Desert. We visited them on our second day. Tickets are only available online, and you cannot go directly to the lagoons. You must first stop at the ticketing office in Socaire to confirm your presence and collect your tickets. When we were there, some tourists arrived without reservations and struggled to purchase tickets due to weak internet connections. The staff explained that visitors without tickets would not be allowed to enter until all reserved visitors had arrived, which could delay entry until noon. This can cost you valuable time, especially if you plan to visit both the lagoons and the salar. If you don’t have a reservation or prefer to save time, joining an organized tour in Atacama might be a good idea. The road to the lagoons is unpaved and can be challenging to drive, so be prepared to go slow. We collected our tickets at 10:30 AM, stopped for photos of the stunning landscapes and vicuñas (a llama-like animal), and arrived at the lagoons’ entrance around 12 PM. The first lagoon to visit is Laguna Miscanti. It has an easy trail to walk, but try to avoid tour buses as the narrow path can get crowded, ruining your photos. Tours usually arrive early, so arriving later (like we did) might help you avoid the crowds.
Laguna Miscanti: The Largest Lagoon of Lagunas Altiplanicas in Atacama Desert
Laguna Miscanti and Laguna Miniques: Discovering the High-Altitude Lagoons at 4,200m in Atacama Desert
After Laguna Miscanti, you’ll drive about 5 minutes to Laguna Miñiques. There’s another short trail with breathtaking views, and there’s also a toilet facility here. Bring food and drinks with you, as the only place to buy anything is back in Socaire. On your way, you might also want to stop at the Tropic of Capricorn sign for a quick photo.
We finished visiting the lagoons at 1 PM and, after driving 70 km, reached Salar de Aguas Calientes and Piedras Rojas around 2 PM. There are toilet facilities at the entrance. At the salar, you’ll follow a 45-minute trail in one direction. Personally, I think the trail should go the opposite way so you can admire the stunning mountains and landscapes while walking. Still, the vibrant color contrasts here are incredible, with shades of yellow, brown, gray, and blue. Nearby, Piedras Rojas (Red Rocks) offers a surreal, rust-colored terrain against the backdrop of turquoise lagoons and snow-capped mountains. When we visited, it was very windy and cold due to the high altitude, so dress warmly.
Piedras Rojas and Salar de Aguas Calientes: Red Rocks and the Hot Water Salt Flat in Atacama
Lost in the Magical Colors of Aguas Calientes Atacama
Essential Tips for Visiting Lagunas Altiplanicas and Salar de Aguas Calientes - Piedras Rojas
Book Your Tickets in Advance Many sites like Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas require online reservations. Without them, you might miss out. Pro Tip: Buy tickets early and follow the order on your ticket.
Stick to the Itinerary Order You must visit attractions like Lagunas Altiplánicas and Piedras Rojas in the order listed on your ticket. Pro Tip: Plan your day to have enough time at each site. Start early!
Collect Your Tickets in Socaire You’ll need to pick up tickets for Lagunas Altiplánicas and Piedras Rojas in Socaire, about 1 hour 10 minutes from San Pedro de Atacama. Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines at the ticket office.
Bring Food and Water There are no places to buy food or water after Socaire, so make sure you’re well-stocked for the day. Pro Tip: Pack snacks and plenty of water before heading out!
Windy Day at Piedras Rojas and Salar de Aguas Calientes: Exploring Atacama's Red Rocks and Salt Flats
Laguna Chaxa
On our way back to San Pedro de Atacama, we stopped at Laguna Chaxa. Visiting Laguna Chaxa requires online ticketing at it costs aroubd 10-11 EUR/USD per person. This lagoon is home to three flamingo species, who feast on the abundant shrimp that thrive in its waters. If you’re not a big fan of flamingos, you can skip this lake, but if you enjoy wildlife, you’ll see plenty here. Most people and tours prefer to visit early in the morning to catch the reflection of the colors on the lake. Along the way, we also saw plenty of vicuñas and even a few wild donkeys.
Majestic flamingos gather at Laguna Chaxa in the heart of the Atacama Desert
Navigating the vast Atacama Desert, watch out for vicuñas! These signs are a common sight, reminding drivers to be mindful of the local wildlife.
VALLE DE LA MUERTE (DEATH VALLEY) ATACAMA
Valle de la Muerte, also known as the "Dead Valley," is located near San Pedro de Atacama, on the way to Calama. It’s not the most famous attraction and isn’t included in all tours, so we were hesitant to visit. But luckily, we did—and it turned out to be one of my favorite spots in San Pedro de Atacama! This amazing place is easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or car, with different entrance fees and hours. Here’s what you need to know:
On foot: It’s very close--just 3 km from San Pedro de Atacama town, which takes about half an hour to reach on foot. Bring plenty of water, as there’s none available at the entrance. Also, avoid visiting at midday, especially in summer, as the sun can be intense.
By bicycle: Some parts of the trail are sandy, making it difficult to ride. Be prepared to walk a long stretch if needed.
By car: We didn’t have a 4x4, and at one point, we got stuck in the sand. It was a bit of a panic moment, but thankfully, we were close enough to the entrance to get help easily.
Conquering Valle de la Muerte's Dunes
We noticed that some people call it Valle de la Muerte, while others refer to it as Valle de la Marte. Was it a spelling mistake? Maybe not! This site has two different entry points.
First Entrance: Valle de la Muerte (Closer to San Pedro de Atacama)
Has a ticket office where you can buy a pass on-site. No need for online reservations--finally, a hassle-free place to visit!
After purchasing your ticket, enjoy a 10-minute scenic drive to the parking lot.
From the parking lot, a short uphill walk leads to the viewpoint, where you’ll find toilet facilities (open until 7 PM).
Many private tours bring visitors here for sunset—but they enter from the second entrance, which is free.
Entering Valle de la Muerte
Second Entrance: Valle de la Marte (Free, but View-Only)
Follow the road to Calama, and on the right, look for the sign "Valle de la Marte."
After a 10-minute drive, you’ll arrive at a stunning scenic viewpoint.
A great option if you just want to enjoy the view without trekking.
Downside: Not ideal for sunset viewing, as the viewpoint faces away from the sun.
On foot? Not recommended. You’d have to walk along the highway, which can be dangerous.
By bike? Possible if you’re fit! But keep in mind that the road is an uphill climb.
Near the viewpoint, a charismatic local woman keeps watch over the area and sells a small selection of drinks—perfect for a quick refreshment!
View from the second gate called Valle del Marte
When to Visit Valle de la Muerte
It’s best to visit after Valle de la Luna, as you can end your adventure by walking on the dunes. I’d recommend coming here as a final stop during your stay in the Atacama Desert. Often underrated compared to Valle de la Luna, Valle de la Muerte offers a unique thrill—walking on giant dunes, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, or even trying sandboarding down the slopes! We made the mistake of visiting at midday, like true sun lovers. It was scorching hot, and walking after the parking lot was exhausting. But the upside? We had the dunes all to ourselves! No footprints in sight—perfect for capturing stunning photos. A few days later, while searching for a free sunset spot, we returned via the second entrance (Valle de la Marte). This time, the area was packed with tour buses and private groups. While the view was still amazing, it didn’t face the sunset directly—so it’s not the best place to watch the sun go down. If you love adventure, enter through the first entrance to experience the trek and the thrill of running, walking, or rolling down the dunes. But if you’re just here for the view, skip the ticket and head to the second entrance. Either way, Valle de la Muerte is a must-visit in San Pedro de Atacama!
Atacama Desert Dune Run on the Sandboarding Hill, Valle de la Muerte
Puritama Hot Spring, Atacama. The short scenic walk from the parking area to the pools adds to the experience.
puritama hot springs
Surrounded by lush green vegetation in the middle of an arid valley in the Atacama Desert, its 8 crystal-clear thermal pools and cascading waterfalls create a dreamy atmosphere. While I’m not usually a fan of hot springs—they often leave me feeling heavy—Puritama is an exception. The small, shallow pools are safe and relaxing, and the desert setting makes it truly unique. Puritama Hot Spring operates in two daily sessions, closing between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM. We arrived around 12:30 PM, just before the midday break, and had most of the pools to ourselves. The entrance fee is 35,000 CLP (approximately 35 EUR/USD) per person. After parking, it’s a 500-meter (10-minute) walk down a ramp to reach the springs, which are located at an altitude of 3,580 meters. The walk back up can be a bit challenging, especially after soaking in the warm waters, but a shuttle service (usually a jeep) is available to help. Tips for Visiting:
Bring sleepers and a towel (they’re not provided, but you’ll dry quickly in the desert heat).
Changing rooms, bathrooms, and a small coffee bar are available on-site.
Arrive early or during quieter hours for a more peaceful experience.
Puritama Hot Springs Atacama Desert
Where to stay in Atacama Desert
San Pedro de Atacama is the most convenient base by far for exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. For a comfortable and convenient stay, I highly recommend Hostal Casa Los Duendes, simple yet clean and comfortable homestay with a 15-minute walk to the town center. We appreciated its great price-quality ratio and spacious parking area, which made our stay hassle-free. San Pedro is a small, charming town with everything you need within walking distance: shops, restaurants, tour operators, and the main plaza. The fact that cars are not allowed in the town center adds to the charm but makes parking more difficult. If you’re going to rent a car, ask your hotel if they offer parking because street parking is difficult with all the 4x4s used for desert tours. From luxury lodges to budget-friendly options, San Pedro has something for everyone. A charming yet budget friendly option may beHostal Hara. If you prefer to spend a little more but stay very close to the center, take a look at the Terrantai Lodge or Hotel Desertico. Pro tip: Book ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to snag the best spots in this charming desert town!