The Atacama’s sands are backdropped by massive volcanoes rising to 20,000 feet. Immense salt fields, colossal dunes, high-altitude geysers, hot springs and striking gorges contribute to the spectacular landscape. It is the driest place on earth, with some areas having no recorded rainfall. Yet despite the harsh environment, llamas, vicuñas and flocks of pink flamingos all flourish. Activities include dune walks, visits to the haunting Valley of the Moon (used by NASA to test robot vehicles) and sunrise excursions to the El Tatio geysers, followed by a soak in the thermal baths of Puritama. At night, the stargazing is nothing less than sensational.
An Otherworldly Daytrip
One of the easiest excursions from San Pedro de Atacama is just a short drive, but the Valley of the Moon could be elsewhere in the solar system. Otherworldly geologic formations, multihued because of their mineral content, create vistas of stunning drama. Towering wind-sculpted formations of crystalline salt eerily groan and creak as temperature changes affect them. Sunsets here are unforgettable.
Salt Flats
The salt flats of Tara are a long drive, and most visitors are either unaware of them or don’t make the effort to get there. Vast stretches of dry land are punctuated by turquoise oases; sightings of pink flamingos that flock to the pools of fresh water are guaranteed.
Geysers at Altitude
At 14,000 feet, the geysers at El Tatio are among the highest in the world and provide a ceaseless spectacle of fiercely bubbling cauldrons and plumes of steam shooting into the chill air. We stopped here for breakfast, enjoying eggs soft-boiled in one of the geysers and drinking tea made with water similarly heated. Healing hot springs are also available for visitors to enjoy.
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