How to Plan Your Tour to Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) from San Pedro de Atacama

Are you looking to visit one of the most popular sites in San Pedro de Atacama? Then Valle de la Luna or Moon Valley is the perfect destination for you. With its surreal landscape and its stunning sunset, it is a must-do for every traveler in the region. In this post, we will guide you through the process of planning your tour to Valle de la Luna from San Pedro de Atacama.

Experience

The tour to Valle de la Luna takes you through a geological spectacle created by the colorful formations all around the area. The tour itinerary includes a visit to the salt caves, a stop at the Tres Marias sculptures, climbing the Gran Duna, and enjoying the sunset from the top. You will peer into a sunset that creates magical colors across the sky.

Highlights

• Discover one of the most popular sites in San Pedro de Atacama
• Experience the magic of the desert
• Visit the Salt Caves
• See the salt sculptures of Tres Marias
• Watch the mesmerizing afternoon sunset from the Gran Duna

Full Description

The tour starts from San Pedro de Atacama, and the destination is Valle de la Luna, which is about ten kilometers away. You will meet your guide at the tour starting point and head towards the Moon Valley, which has been declared a natural sanctuary as part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve within the Salt Mountain range.

Once you reach Valle de la Luna, you will have ample time to explore the valley, which has a beautiful and awe-inspiring landscape that is like the surface of the moon. You will witness a geological spectacle created by the various colorful formations all around the area.

The tour also includes a visit to the Tres Marias statues, exploration of the salt cave, and a climb up the Gran Duna or the Great Dune. From the top of the dune, you can witness a stunning and panoramic view of the entire valley. You can enjoy this view while experiencing the mesmerizing sunset, which creates beautiful colors across the sky.

The tour concludes by returning to San Pedro de Atacama after a day filled with unforgettable moments and magical memories.

Includes

The tour includes transportation to and from San Pedro de Atacama, an English-speaking tour guide, and entry fees for the Moon Valley.

Booking

If you are interested in booking the Valle de la Luna tour, click here. Make sure to book your tour in advance because the tour is a popular tourist destination, and there are limited spots available.

Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes
• Carry a jacket, especially during the evening
• Carry sunscreen, shades, and hats to protect yourself from the sun
• Carry water (check the capacity allowed beforehand) and snacks, especially if traveling with children
• Carry a camera to capture the stunning scenery and sunset
• Reconfirm the tour timings and location with the tour company beforehand

Conclusion

Valle de la Luna or Moon Valley is an unbelievable site that creates a memorable and life-changing experience. The geological formations and the sunset will create a picture that will last forever in your mind. The tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, families, and anyone looking to explore more of the beauty that San Pedro de Atacama has to offer. We hope this guide will help you plan your trip and create a lifelong memory.

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

San Pedro de Atacama is an enchanting desert town in northern Chile appreciated for its numerous natural wonders such as geysers, salt flats, hot springs, and of course, Valle de la Luna, or Moon Valley. However, there’s more to the town than just its stunning surroundings. The following is an insider’s guide that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions to offer a unique and memorable experience in this awe-inspiring destination.

Discovering Off-the-Beaten-Track Attractions

While San Pedro de Atacama has many terrific tourist spots, there are some hidden gems that only locals know. The Pukará de Quitor ruins, for example, do not get as much traffic as some of the other sites but are worth the visit. The fortress was a pre-Incan settlement and was fiercely fought over by the Spanish conquistadors and the local people. Also, the Rainbow Valley, approximately an hour from San Pedro, is an extraordinary place with shades of colors that are undoubtedly worth seeing.

Tasting Local Cuisine

Chilean cuisine is an underrated treasure with diverse culinary traditions influenced by the country’s various geographical regions. In San Pedro, check out La Casona del Pueblo, an unpretentious family-run restaurant that specializes in traditional Chilean recipes. Their empanadas with ground beef and raisins are a must-try. Make sure to complement the meal with a glass or two of Chilean wine.

Experiencing Local Culture

San Pedro de Atacama has an indigenous history with strong religious and cultural traditions. The local Tiwanaku communities have managed to preserve their language, dress, and customs. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the region’s culture, take a tour to the Tiwanaku villages, such as Atacameña, or participate in the Puritama Hotsprings ritual, which combines hot spring therapy with cultural practices and mindfulness methods.

Delving into Local History

San Pedro de Atacama’s history is fascinating and full of intrigue. Learn about the town’s role in the War of the Pacific by visiting the Historical Museum, which houses exhibits and artefacts from that period. Additionally, the San Pedro de Atacama church is worth a visit. Constructed entirely of adobe, it dates back to the 17th century and was declared a national monument. Lastly, don’t forget to mention the legend of the abandoned mine, where the miners vanished, and no one quite knows what happened to them.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore the unique landscapes of San Pedro in a different way, set up a candlelight dinner in the desert, dance under the stars, and enjoy the panoramic views. This magical experience should be at the top of your to-do list. Additionally, try mountain biking through the desert at sunset or indulge in a hot air balloon ride in the early morning to witness the sunrise over the breathtaking volcanic formations.

Conclusion

San Pedro de Atacama is an unforgettable destination that encapsulates a perfect combination of natural bounty, rich cultural heritage, and authentic Chilean experiences. This insider’s guide should help you uncover some hidden attractions, cultural experiences, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure that will leave you mesmerized. Keep this guide handy to help you create an itinerary that will enable you to explore the city in a way that will make you fall in love with it and eager to share your experiences with others.