In June, some of our travelArtists traveled to the driest desert in the world and share some of the highlights of this trip with us:
The visit to the Rainbow valley (Valle del Arcoíris) was a colorful experience. The spectacular rock formations in various shades of red, yellow, green and white provided a breathtaking backdrop for a walk through this surreal landscape.
At Yerbas Buenas, they were able to immerse themselves in the past of the Atacama region. The impressive petroglyphs carved into the rocks here tell stories of ancient cultures and offer a fascinating insight into the lives and myths of the former inhabitants of this region.
The Salar de Atacama, Chile’s largest salt lake, was another highlight with its endless white expanses and crystal-clear lagoons. The visit to the Chaxa lagoon, where the travelArtists were able to observe flamingos in their natural habitat, was particularly fascinating. The majestic birds and the mirror-smooth surface of the lagoon offered a unique photo opportunity.
A visit to the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) is one of the classic excursion destinations in the Atacama Desert. A hike through this extraordinary valley with its bizarre rock formations feels like you’ve landed on another planet.
The sunset in the Moon Valley, accompanied by a cocktail, was a special highlight, with the rocks glowing in bright orange and red.
San Pedro de Atacama is known for its clear night sky, which is perfect for astronomical tours and astrophotography. On an evening excursion, our team was able to marvel at the universe in all its splendor and take fantastic souvenir photos with a brilliant starry sky under expert guidance.
Finally, they visited the Geyser del Tatio. They set off early in the morning to experience the impressive natural spectacle of the geysers steaming and bubbling in the cool morning air.
In addition to exploring the various sights in this region of Chile, our team also inspected several of the hotels we offer:
Don Raúl
Nestled in the historic center of San Pedro de Atacama, the hotel offers an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Embracing the traditional adobe architecture characteristic of this charming desert town, the hotel provides a unique and authentic experience. Nearby, guests can find a variety of bars and restaurants, while the hotel’s own cozy restaurant, “Agua Loca,” serves up culinary delights for those wishing to dine in.
Poblado de Kimal
It is designed to resemble a traditional village in the Atacama Desert, offering guests an authentic experience of the local culture. Small houses made of wood and adobe with private terraces are arranged along winding wooden paths and surrounded by native flora. The hotel is illuminated solely by solar energy. On hot desert days, a swimming pool provides a refreshing escape, while the hotel restaurant delights travelers with culinary delights. Situated on the main street of San Pedro, the Hotel El Poblado de Kimal is just steps away from restaurants, cafes, and attractions.
Don Tomás
This family-friendly hotel in the typical Atacameño style of the region is located just a five-minute walk from the center of San Pedro de Atacama. Known for its warm hospitality and traditional design, the hotel offers rustic and cozy accommodations that reflect the local architecture and culture. The inviting rooms are arranged around an inner courtyard and the terrace offers a beautiful view of the Licancabur volcano.
Nayara Alto Atacama
Nestled in a fertile oasis in the Atacama Desert, approximately 3 km from San Pedro de Atacama and near the ancient fortress of Pukará de Quitor, the hotel offers a stunning backdrop. It creates an inviting atmosphere with warm natural tones. The rooms feature modern and comfortable designs, while the cozy outdoor terraces are perfect for unwinding after a day of excursions. The hotel’s restaurant showcases dishes made from local ingredients, reflecting Chile’s rich culinary culture.
The trip to San Pedro de Atacama offered us unforgettable experiences and inspiring insights into one of the most fascinating regions in the world. From the colorful landscapes of the Rainbow Valley to the impressive Geysers del Tatio, every moment was an adventure.
At travelArt Chile, we look forward to taking our guests on similar unforgettable journeys and introducing them to the beauty and diversity of this unique region.