The 5 Best Cinemas of San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is more than just a desert town with spectacular starry skies. It also offers a unique and diverse nightlife for those who are willing to stay up late. Though San Pedro is famous for its geysers, hot springs, and desert landscapes, the nightlife of the town shouldn’t be missed. With a pinch of Andean tradition and a sprinkle of international flavors, the cinemas of San Pedro de Atacama offer an out-of-the-ordinary experience for the moviegoers.

Here are five of the best cinemas you can visit in San Pedro de Atacama:

1. Cine Oasis Atacama (Main Street)

Cine Oasis Atacama is located in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama’s downtown, with a vibrant interior reflecting the warm and welcoming citizens of the town. Oasis Atacama offers a mix of Latin and international movies, with screenings every night of the week. Oasis Atacama is also known for its documentaries related to the culture and the geographical features of the Atacama Desert. The cinema has a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, with comfy chairs and movie-goer packages that include popcorn, drinks and snacks.

2. Kimal Cinema (Tocopilla Street)

Kimal Cinema, located just a short walk from the center plaza, offers an affordable cinema experience with its low ticket prices. The cinema offers a range of movies such as comedies, dramas, and action films, and stays open even during the off-season when other cinemas may be closed. With comfortable seats and a great sound system, Kimal Cinema is a great place to go for an affordable movie night out.

3. Atacama Dark Sky (Caracoles Street)

Atacama Dark Sky is a unique cinema experience in San Pedro de Atacama. Located next door to the popular Atacama Star Tours telescope attraction, it offers cinema-goers an unforgettable cinematic and stargazing experience. The cinema specializes in space and science-fiction movies and is a great way to experience the wonders of the universe while in San Pedro de Atacama.

4. Cinema from the Sky (Chihuly Street)

Cinema from the Sky, located on a rooftop in a charming and cozy environment, is known for its romantic atmosphere with tables for two to enjoy a movie over dinner with a loved one. The cinema screens a variety of classic and contemporary films that are suitable for every age, and offer the perfect cinematic experience for couples on a date or a group of friends.

5. Cine Sur (Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum)

Cine Sur is a unique cinema located in the world-renowned Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum. This cultural hotspot screens movies related to Andean culture and the history of the Atacama Desert. Cine Sur offers an alfresco setting where film lovers can enjoy the screening under the starry sky, which is perfect for those seeking a cultural cinematic experience.

In conclusion, San Pedro de Atacama has a diverse and unique cinema culture that combines tradition, science-fiction, Andean culture, and romance. Some of the best cinemas in San Pedro de Atacama are Cine Oasis Atacama, Kimal Cinema, Atacama Dark Sky, Cinema from the Sky, and Cine Sur. Whether you’re on a date, with family, or solo, there is always a cinema for you to enjoy in San Pedro.

The Insider’s Guide to San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is a small town in the Atacama Desert of Chile that boasts of a rich history and striking scenery. It is the ultimate gateway to exploring Chile’s most remote and arid landscapes, with plenty of natural attractions, cultural experiences, and thrilling activities for all tourists. Here’s an insider’s guide to discovering what San Pedro de Atacama has to offer.

Local Attractions

San Pedro de Atacama is surrounded by stunning natural attractions that will leave tourists awestruck. From ancient ruins to otherworldly landscapes, here are the not-to-miss local attractions:

Valle de la Luna

Valle de la Luna is a beautiful natural wonder located a few miles west of San Pedro de Atacama. This Martian-like landscape is famous for its towering sand dunes, vast salt flats, and impressive rock formations. The dessert has a breathtaking view of sunset and is perfect for hiking.

Puritama Hot Springs

This natural wonder is located in a canyon about 30 miles northeast of San Pedro de Atacama. The Puritama Hot Springs are a series of eight interconnected pools filled with geothermal water that has medicinal properties and is suitable for any weather.

Machuca Village

This tiny village is just a stone’s throw away from San Pedro de Atacama. It is famous for its charming adobe homes, picturesque church, and local markets selling traditional products and artisanal crafts. Visiting the village offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Cultural Experiences

San Pedro de Atacama is home to indigenous communities that have lived in the region for centuries. These cultures have inspired the town’s traditions, cuisine, and architecture. Here are some ways to immerse yourself in the local culture:

Museum of Archaeology

The Museum of Archaeology is the perfect place to learn about the rich history of San Pedro de Atacama and its surrounding area. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from pre-Columbian times.

Tatio Geysers

The Tatio Geysers are located about 60 miles north of San Pedro de Atacama and are the third-largest geyser field globally. It is an excellent cultural activity to watch the geysers spouting into the air at sunrise, guided by the local community’s experts.

Stargazing

San Pedro de Atacama is one of the best places in the world to stargaze. It is a part of the Atacama Observatory Project, and its dry air, high altitude, and remote location make it the perfect place to view the southern sky. Visitors can enjoy stargazing and learn about the constellations with the help of professionals.

Dining Spots

Despite being a small town in the middle of the desert, San Pedro de Atacama offers visitors plenty of dining options. Here are a few must-try restaurants:

Baltinache

Baltinache is an excellent fine dining spot located a few miles outside of town. This restaurant serves a range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, cocktails, and wine. The ambiance is terrific, with beautiful views of the vast Atacama Desert.

Sol Inti

Sol Inti is a family-owned restaurant located in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama that serves authentic Chilean cuisine. The restaurant’s specialties include seafood, empanadas, and locally sourced meat dishes.

Café Adobe

This café is located in a charming adobe house and serves fantastic breakfast and brunch options. It is an excellent place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

Local History

San Pedro de Atacama is a town steeped in history, and there are numerous sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the town’s past. Here are a few must-visit historical sites:

Pukara de Quitor

Pukara de Quitor is a well-preserved ancient fortress located about three miles north of San Pedro de Atacama. The fortress played a vital role in protecting the area during the Inca and Spanish conquests.

Church of San Pedro

The Church of San Pedro is a beautiful adobe church built between the 16th and 18th centuries. This charming church is a fusion of European and native influences and is an iconic landmark in the town.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

San Pedro de Atacama has plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations that are just waiting to be discovered. Here are some not-to-miss suggestions to explore:

Cejar Lagoon

The Cejar Lagoon is located about 12 miles west of San Pedro de Atacama. This lagoon has saltwater that is so dense that it is impossible to sink. A day trip to the lagoon is perfect for a unique swimming experience.

Jere Valley

The Jere Valley is a hidden gem located a few miles south of San Pedro de Atacama. It is a vast area full of stunning rock formations, rivers, and unique flora and fauna, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Termas de Puritama

The Termas de Puritama is a natural hot spring located about 18 miles northeast of San Pedro de Atacama. This hidden oasis is an excellent place to relax and unwind in the middle of the desert.

Conclusion

San Pedro de Atacama is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. This insider’s guide highlights some must-visit attractions, delicious dining options, and off-the-beaten-path activities that will make your visit to San Pedro de Atacama unforgettable.