Exploring the Wonders of San Pedro de Atacama with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Atacameño culture and savoring the unique flavors of this desert oasis. It's amazing how much history and life can be found in such an arid landscape. From ancient rock carvings to bustling local markets, San Pedro de Atacama continues to surprise and delight.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at San Antonio, a local favorite. The simple, honest food was exactly what we needed to fuel our exploration. I opted for scrambled eggs with some local bread, and a strong coffee to kickstart the day. It’s funny, even thousands of miles from Potsdam, the smell of fresh bread still makes me feel at home. With full stomachs, we set off to Yerbas Buenas, eager to see the ancient petroglyphs.


Experience authentic Chilean flavors at San Antonio in San Pedro de Atacama – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.

The drive to Yerbas Buenas was stunning. The landscape transformed into a canvas of ochre and rust, with towering rock formations piercing the clear blue sky. As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism apps, I couldn't help but think about how best to capture this raw beauty in a digital format. The challenge is always to convey the feeling, the sheer scale, and the sense of history, not just the visual details.

Arriving at Yerbas Buenas, we were immediately transported back in time. The petroglyphs, carved into the rocks by the Atacameno people over 10,000 years ago, were mesmerizing. The stylized images of animals – llamas, foxes, and even what looked like jaguars – told stories of a people deeply connected to this land. It was incredible to think that these carvings were made so long ago, serving as route signs for indigenous caravans crossing from Argentina and the Bolivian highlands to reach the Pacific Ocean. I tried to imagine the hands that created these images, the lives they lived, and the world they knew. It's humbling to stand in the presence of such ancient artistry.


Discover the ancient rock art of Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, a captivating journey into the rich cultural heritage of San Pedro de Atacama.

The desert whispers secrets to those who listen, revealing stories etched in stone and flavors carried on the wind.

Next on our itinerary was Cruz Papal, an iconic observation deck offering panoramic views of Death Valley and the Atacama Desert. The climb up to the deck was a bit of a workout, but the view was more than worth it. From here, the vastness of the desert stretched out before us, an endless expanse of sand, rock, and sky. The stark beauty of the landscape was breathtaking, a reminder of the power and resilience of nature. It was easy to see why this spot is a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, the way the light played across the undulating dunes, the distant peaks of the Andes shimmering in the heat.


Experience the stunning vistas of Cruz Papal, an observation deck in San Pedro de Atacama, offering breathtaking views of Death Valley and the Atacama Desert.

After soaking in the views, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Lefranchute, a charming little restaurant known for its French-inspired cuisine. It felt a bit surreal to be eating croissants and baguettes in the middle of the Atacama Desert, but the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I opted for a croque monsieur and a refreshing Pisco Sour, a local specialty.


Experience authentic French cuisine at Lefranchute in San Pedro de Atacama—where desert landscapes meet exquisite flavors.

With our appetites sated, we decided to explore the local shops. Bazar Emylu caught our eye with its vibrant display of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. I picked up a few small items to bring back home – a hand-woven scarf for Klara, a small wooden toy for Mateo, and a colorful ceramic bowl for our kitchen in Potsdam. It’s always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit, a tangible reminder of our adventures.


Explore Bazar Emylu for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and cultural treasures in San Pedro de Atacama.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Kratter Club Tattoo, a local tattoo parlor known for its unique designs inspired by the desert landscape and Atacameño culture. While I’m not personally one for tattoos, I was intrigued by the artistry on display. My friend was tempted to get a small design as a permanent reminder of our trip, but in the end, decided against it. Perhaps next time!


Experience exceptional artistry at Kratter Club Tattoo in San Pedro de Atacama, where every tattoo tells a story of adventure and culture.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Kunza, eager to experience traditional Atacameño cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic atmosphere. We ordered a variety of local dishes, including llama steak, quinoa stew, and some interesting local vegetables I couldn't quite identify. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the unique ingredients and culinary traditions of this region. It was a fitting end to a day of cultural immersion and exploration.


Experience the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Restaurant Kunza, where local ingredients meet stunning desert views for an unforgettable dining experience.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place. San Pedro de Atacama is more than just a desert; it's a living, breathing testament to the power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we venture out to Laguna Tebinquiche and Mars Valley. I hear the sunsets are incredible, and I can't wait to capture them with my camera. Tomorrow promises more breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Laguna Tebinquiche and the Mars Valley. I've heard the sunsets at Laguna Tebinquiche are spectacular, and I'm eager to see the otherworldly landscapes of the Mars Valley. It's going to be another day of adventure, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about my family back in Potsdam. I miss Klara and Mateo dearly, but I know that this trip is something special, something that will enrich my life and broaden my perspective. And who knows, maybe one day I'll bring them here to experience the magic of the Atacama Desert for themselves.

“Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” – Miriam Beard. This quote perfectly encapsulates my feelings about this trip. It’s not just about the places we visit, but about the way those places change us, shape us, and inspire us to see the world in new ways.

Goodnight from San Pedro de Atacama. Until tomorrow!