A Guide to San Pedro de Atacama: Valle de la Luna Sunset Tour

Looking for an unforgettable experience in San Pedro de Atacama? A Valle de la Luna sunset tour is the perfect way to see one of the most stunning places on earth. With lunar rock formations, pools of salt, and a stunning celestial show at the end of the day, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. But before you embark on your journey, it’s important to understand what to expect from this incredible tour.

Overview of the Tour

Valle de la Luna is a unique landscape with its wind-sculpted formations and colorful salt ponds. Located on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, it’s a popular tourist destination that offers a fantastic view of the sunset from the valley’s highest point. On the tour, you’ll have an experienced guide who will take you through the best parts of the valley and explain the geological history behind it.

The tour usually begins just after sunset and lasts around two hours. During this time, you’ll witness stunning views of spires, sandstone formations, and salt ponds that reflect mesmerizing sunset colors. As you skirt around ponds and crevices, your guide will provide helpful commentary on the landscape and discuss both its legends and its science.

What to Bring on the Tour

The sun in Valle de la Luna is intense during the day, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen. You should also bring comfortable shoes because most of the hike is over unpaved ground. A small pack with snacks and water is recommended since this tour takes place mostly outside and there are no convenience stores in the area. If possible, bring a flashlight so you can easily find your way back after dark.

Best Time to Visit Valle de la Luna

You’ll want to pick your tour date carefully since much of Valle de la Luna’s beauty is closely tied to its sublime sunsets. The best time to visit is between May and October, when temperatures are at their mildest and skies are usually clearest. It’s advisable to book early as spots tend to fill up quickly during these months.

What to See

Most Valle de la Luna tours include some of these stops:

• The Salt Pools: These unusual formations are created from salt deposits left by evaporated lakes. The brilliant colors of these pools are only visible during the late afternoon when the sun’s rays hit them from just the right angle.
• The Sand Dunes: This is one of the signature highlights of a Valle de la Luna tour, since most visitors get to experience sandboarding or “sandsurfing” down its slopes.
• The Gardens: These small areas of lush vegetation showcase plants that thrive in Valle de la Luna’s desert environment.
• The Giant Cactus: This deep-rooted plant stands out in stark contrast against Valle de la Luna’s desert landscape.
• Sandstone Formations: The largest spire in Valle de la Luna (named Las Tres Marias) juts out between two massive sandstone walls, truly making it an awe-inspiring sight.
• The Viewpoint: This spot is perfect for taking pictures of Valle de la Luna, as well as for soaking in the rich colors of its golden desert twilight.

Costs

The price for a Valle de la Luna tour depends on what activities are included. Generally, most tours will cost about $15–25 and will feature some combination of sunset-viewing, sandboarding, and professional commentary by your guide. The additional costs (if any) will depend on whether lunch or dinner is provided or if you hire any special gear like sandboards or flashlights.

Conclusion

A Valle de la Luna sunset tour is a fantastic experience for any traveler visiting San Pedro de Atacama. The sights are breathtaking, and the stories told by expert guides will give you a deeper understanding of this captivating environment. Be sure to don your hat and sunscreen before embarking on this unforgettable journey! Ready to try it out? Book your San Pedro de Atacama Valle de la Luna sunset tour here!

An Insider’s Guide to San Pedro de Atacama: Discovering Hidden Gems

San Pedro de Atacama is known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, but this desert town has so much more to offer beyond the usual tourist spots. As a local, I’ve discovered some hidden gems in and around San Pedro that I would love to share with you.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While it’s tempting to visit all the popular attractions like the Valle de la Luna and the El Tatio Geysers, there are some lesser-known places that are equally mesmerizing. One such gem is the Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, located about 20 km from San Pedro. These 5000-year-old rock carvings reveal the history of the Atacama people and are a testimony to their way of life. Another place worth visiting is the Aguas Calientes hot springs, where you can soak in naturally heated pools and enjoy the tranquility of the river flowing by.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine and Flavors

San Pedro de Atacama has a rich food culture that has evolved over centuries. From traditional dishes like cazuela and empanadas to modern cuisine that fuses local and international flavors, there’s something for every palate. One of my favorite places to eat is La Estaka, a cozy restaurant that serves delicious Chilean food and has a beautiful outdoor seating area under a straw roof. For a unique dining experience, try some llama meat at La Casona, a restaurant that specializes in Andean cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in Local Traditions

The town of San Pedro de Atacama is steeped in culture and tradition, and there are several ways to experience it firsthand. Attend the Fiesta de San Pedro, a religious celebration that takes place in late June and features colorful processions, music, and dance. Check out the local craft market, where you can buy handmade textiles, jewelry, and ceramics that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Visit the R.P. Gustavo Le Paige archaeological museum to learn about the history and culture of the Atacama people.

Local History: Unearthing Fascinating Stories from the Past

The history of San Pedro de Atacama is as captivating as its landscapes. One such story is about the Candelabro de la Muerte (Candelabra of Death), a gigantic cactus that is said to have grown in the shape of a chandelier after a massacre of indigenous peoples in the 18th century. Another fascinating piece of history is the Pukará de Quitor, a fortress that was built by the Atacama people to defend themselves against the Incas in the 12th century. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the ancient people of the Atacama region.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Experiences

For those seeking adventure and unique experiences, here are some tips to explore beyond the conventional. Take a night tour of the Salar de Atacama, a salt flat that transforms into a stargazer’s paradise after dark. Go sandboarding on the dunes of Death Valley, a surreal landscape with red and orange sand formations. Visit the Quebrada de Jerez, a hidden valley with a crystalline river and a lush oasis that feels like a secret paradise.

In conclusion, San Pedro de Atacama has much to offer beyond the usual tourist spots. By exploring the hidden gems, experiencing the local culture, and unearthing fascinating stories, you can create unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave this magical place.