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

If you are in San Pedro de Atacama, exploring the incredible natural wonders is a must. One such place that you should not miss is the Valle de la Luna or Moon Valley, which offers an unparalleled sight of the desert landscape. To make the most out of your trip, it is important to plan and organize your tour well in advance. Here is a guide that can help you plan your Valle de la Luna tour from San Pedro de Atacama.

Overview of the Tour

Valle de la Luna is one of the most popular natural attractions in San Pedro de Atacama. It contains unique geological formations, salt caves, and offers a stunning view of the sunset from the Gran Duna. The tour takes you on a journey to this natural sanctuary, which is a part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve, located approximately 10 kilometers away from San Pedro de Atacama. This tour is a great opportunity to witness the magic of the desert and create unforgettable memories. You will explore the Tres Marias statues, climb the Gran Duna, and see the salt sculptures, as well as spectacular colorful geological formations resembling the surface of the moon.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

• Experience the magic of the desert landscape
• Explore the Tres Marias statues
• Visit the Salt Caves
• See the salt sculptures of Tres Marias
• Climb the Gran Duna to witness the beautiful sunset panorama

Tour Description

The Valle de la Luna tour typically starts around 3 pm when you meet your guide in San Pedro de Atacama. You will then be transported in a comfortable vehicle to the Moon Valley, where you can enjoy some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever lay your eyes on. The first stop of the tour is the Tres Marias statues, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations. You will then be guided to explore the salt caves, which are a delight to the senses with their pungent odor and unique textures. Next, you will trek up the Gran Duna, also known as the Great Dune. From the top, you can capture an unforgettable view of the breathtaking sunset over the desert that sets the entire sky ablaze with colors. Afterward, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to San Pedro de Atacama.

What is included?

The tour package includes:

• Round-trip transportation in a comfortable vehicle
• Entrance fee for the Valle de la Luna
• Expert guide who speaks Spanish, English, and Portuguese

How to Book the Tour

Are you ready to experience the wonder and magic of the Valle de la Luna? You can book the tour from the following link: book the tour here. In conclusion, if you are planning a trip to San Pedro de Atacama, you must plan a visit to the Valle de la Luna. By using this guide, you can plan and organize your tour without any trouble and really experience the natural beauty that Chile has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is a small town located in the north of Chile, in the middle of the Atacama Desert. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its incredible natural scenery, rich history and culture, and unique attractions. If you are planning a trip to San Pedro de Atacama, you likely have some questions about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you prepare for your visit:

1. What is the best time of year to visit San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit is during the months of March to May and September to November. During these months, the temperatures are milder, and the crowds are smaller, allowing visitors to enjoy the attractions without feeling overwhelmed.

2. How do I get to San Pedro de Atacama?

The easiest way to get to San Pedro de Atacama is by flying to Calama Airport. From there, you can take a bus or hire a private transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, which is about an hour’s drive away. It is also possible to drive to San Pedro de Atacama from other parts of Chile, but keep in mind that the roads can be challenging, and renting a car is not recommended if you are not experienced with driving in the desert.

3. What should I pack for my trip to San Pedro de Atacama?

When packing for your trip to San Pedro de Atacama, it is important to keep in mind that the Atacama Desert is a very dry and arid environment. Be sure to pack comfortable, breathable clothing that will protect you from the sun, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a hat. You’ll also want to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a daypack to carry your belongings during excursions.

4. What are the top attractions in San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama is home to many incredible natural attractions, as well as historic and cultural sites. Some of the top attractions include the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), the El Tatio Geysers, the Salar de Atacama (Atacama Salt Flats), and the ancient fortress of Pukará de Quitor. Additionally, the town itself is charming, with a church built in the 17th century and a local market where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.

5. Do I need a tour guide to explore San Pedro de Atacama?

While it is possible to explore the attractions around San Pedro de Atacama on your own, we highly recommend hiring a tour guide. Not only will a guide provide you with valuable information about the history and culture of the region, but they will also ensure your safety and help you navigate the sometimes challenging terrain. Additionally, many of the attractions, such as the El Tatio Geysers, require a guide to visit.

6. What is the food like in San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama is home to many excellent restaurants serving a variety of cuisine. Traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas and seafood are popular, as are international dishes like pizza and burgers. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, but be sure to check in advance, as some restaurants may have limited options.

7. Is it safe to travel to San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware that the terrain and weather can be challenging, and it is essential to follow all safety guidelines when undertaking excursions or outdoor activities. Additionally, visitors should take basic precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding walking alone at night.

8. What type of accommodation options are available in San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. There are many hotels, hostels, and guesthouses located in and around the town, as well as unique options such as eco-lodges and glamping sites. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.

9. What should I know about the local culture in San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama is home to a rich and vibrant culture, influenced by the indigenous Atacameño people. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes at religious sites and festivals. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can also help you communicate with locals and show your appreciation for their culture.

10. What is the best way to experience San Pedro de Atacama?

The best way to experience San Pedro de Atacama is by immersing yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of the region. Take an excursion to explore the wonders of the Atacama Desert, visit historic sites, and connect with the local culture. Whether you choose to hike through the Valle de la Luna, soak in the El Tatio Geysers, or wander through the charming streets of San Pedro de Atacama, you are sure to create unforgettable memories.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is a small town located in the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. It attracts tourists from all over the world due to its stunning scenery, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to San Pedro de Atacama, here are some things you can do to spend your time:

1. Explore the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

Valle de la Luna is an otherworldly landscape of towering dunes, jagged rock formations, and salt flats, which earned its name due to its resemblance to the lunar surface. You can explore the valley on your own, on foot or by bike, or take a guided tour. The best time to visit is at sunset when the colors of the rock formations change dramatically, creating a stunning visual display.

2. Visit the El Tatio Geysers

El Tatio Geysers is a geothermal field that contains over 80 active geysers. It’s one of the highest-elevation geyser fields in the world, located at over 4,300 meters above sea level. You can take a guided tour to visit the geysers, but it’s important to note that the best time to visit is early in the morning when the geysers are most active.

3. Take a Stargazing Tour

San Pedro de Atacama is known for having some of the clearest skies in the world, making it an ideal location for stargazing. You can take a guided tour to one of the region’s observatories or observatory sites to learn about the constellations and see the stars in all their glory. Some tours even include dinner or snacks, adding to the overall experience.

4. See the Salar de Atacama (Atacama Salt Flat)

The Salar de Atacama is one of the largest salt flats in the world, spanning over 3,000 square kilometers. It’s home to a variety of unique wildlife, including flamingos, vicuñas, and viscachas, and has several lagoons with different colors due to the presence of various minerals. You can take a guided tour or explore the salt flat on your own by bike or car.

5. Learn About the Culture at Pukará de Quitor

Pukará de Quitor is an ancient fortress built by the Atacameño people around 1,000 years ago. It played a significant role in the Atacameño’s resistance against the Spanish conquest and is now an important historical site. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Atacameño people and explore the ruins of the fortress.

6. Relax in the Hot Springs of Puritama

Puritama is a series of natural hot springs located in a canyon in the Atacama Desert. The water is heated by geothermal activity and contains minerals that are beneficial for the skin. You can take a guided tour to visit the hot springs and enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm water.

7. Marvel at the Rainbow Valley

The Rainbow Valley is a colorful geological formation located about an hour’s drive from San Pedro de Atacama. It’s named after the vibrant colors of the rocks, which are caused by the presence of minerals such as copper and iron. You can take a guided tour or explore the valley on your own to marvel at the unique landscape.

Book Your Tour Now

San Pedro de Atacama is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a variety of experiences for tourists. Whether you’re interested in natural wonders, cultural heritage, or stargazing, there’s something for everyone in this amazing town. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!