Exploring the Wonders of San Pedro de Atacama with Friends

Celestial Echoes and Earthly Delights

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey from the far reaches of space to the heart of the Andean highlands. San Pedro de Atacama continues to surprise me with its diverse offerings. From wandering through a museum filled with remnants of the cosmos to observing the unique wildlife thriving in the high-altitude desert, it was an experience that truly broadened my perspective.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Estrella Negra. Klara had read about this vegetarian restaurant online, and since we are trying to eat less meat, we decided to give it a try. The place has a very laid-back Rasta vibe and we enjoyed some delicious and healthy vegan options. It was the perfect fuel for our morning adventure. I even managed to practice some of my German with Klara while ordering, which always makes her smile. I love how food can also be a cultural bridge, reminding me of our life back in Potsdam.

Our first stop was the Meteorite Museum. I've always been fascinated by space, and the Atacama Desert, with its clear skies and high altitude, seems like the perfect place to explore the mysteries of the universe. The museum didn't disappoint. It's located just three blocks north of the Plaza, at Tocopilla 201. I found out that the museum was founded by two brothers from Atacama, who for more than 40 years, have been searching for these 'impacts siderales' in the desert. Imagine that! It houses an impressive collection of meteorites found in the Atacama, one of the largest private collections in the world. As a mobile app developer, I often think about the blend of technology and nature, and here I was, surrounded by ancient space rocks, each with its own story to tell. Mateo was especially excited, peppering me with questions about where the meteorites came from and if we could touch them. The museum had an audio guide in multiple languages, including English, which was very helpful. I was particularly intrigued by the meteorites that contained organic compounds, the building blocks of life. It's humbling to think that the seeds of life on Earth might have come from outer space. It really makes you think about our place in the universe, doesn't it?


Explore the origins of the universe at the Meteorite Museum in San Pedro de Atacama, home to a world-class collection of meteorites and celestial artifacts.

The universe is under no obligation to make sense to you.

After our cosmic encounter, we had lunch at Restaurante Puca Pukara. The food was delicious, offering a taste of authentic Chilean cuisine. It was a welcome break after our morning of exploring space rocks. I had read that the restaurant offers a culinary journey through local flavors, and I was not disappointed. I tried a traditional dish, and it was absolutely amazing. It's these little culinary experiences that make traveling so rewarding.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina Eduardo Avaroa. Now, I know this reserve is actually in Bolivia, but we decided to take a day trip across the border to experience its unique landscapes and wildlife. The reserve is named after Eduardo Avaroa, a Bolivian war hero, and it's one of the most visited protected areas in Bolivia. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with bumpy roads and stunning views of the Andean highlands. The landscape was surreal, almost Martian, with vast plains, colorful lagoons, and snow-capped volcanoes in the distance.


Discover breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina - Eduardo Avora, a must-visit nature reserve in the heart of the Andes.

The reserve is home to a variety of Andean wildlife, including vicuñas, flamingos, and Andean foxes. We were lucky enough to spot a group of vicuñas grazing on the plains. Their elegant 모습 and graceful movements were a sight to behold. Mateo was thrilled to see the flamingos in the Laguna Colorada, their pink feathers contrasting beautifully with the blue water. I tried to explain to him how the flamingos get their color from the food they eat, but I'm not sure he fully understood. It's moments like these that remind me how much I enjoy sharing my love of nature with my son.

Before heading back to San Pedro, we stopped at Raza, a local shop that showcases the culture and artistry of northern Chile. Klara was keen to find a unique souvenir, and Raza didn't disappoint. The shop had a curated selection of handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and other artisanal items. The warm colors and textures of the Atacama Desert were reflected in every piece. We ended up buying a beautiful textile with traditional Andean motifs. It's a reminder of our time here and a piece of the local culture to take back home to Potsdam.


Discover Raza, a boutique in San Pedro de Atacama, featuring unique local crafts that embody the spirit of the Atacama Desert's rich culture.

For dinner, we decided to try Volkanico SmokeHouse, a restaurant specializing in smoked delicacies. The restaurant has a charming setting amidst trees and regional plants, offering a peaceful oasis. The food was excellent, with a variety of smoked meats and fish prepared on-site. I tried the smoked brisket, and it was heavenly. The attentive waitstaff and the chill music added to the relaxed atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring.


Experience the rich flavors of smoked cuisine at Volkanico SmokeHouse, where every dish tells a story amidst the stunning backdrop of San Pedro de Atacama.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out El Toconar, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. I met some fellow travelers and locals and enjoyed a few drinks while listening to music. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bar has a license to serve alcohol without food, which is apparently rare in San Pedro. I found the atmosphere welcoming, and it was a great chance to practice my Spanish and learn more about the local culture.


Discover the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at El Toconar, a vibrant gastropub offering local dishes and a warm atmosphere for every traveler.

As I sit here writing this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow. We plan to visit Mirador San Pedro and the Stone Zoo. I'm excited to see more of the unique landscapes and attractions that San Pedro de Atacama has to offer. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Aura Andina and dinner at Restaurant CASA COLQUE. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity to explore such a fascinating place with my friends. It's a reminder that life is an adventure, and it's meant to be shared.

I feel so lucky to be here, experiencing the wonders of the Atacama Desert with my friends. Every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments. I am also reminded of how much I miss Klara and Mateo. I am already looking forward to returning to Potsdam and sharing all my stories and experiences with them. But for now, I am going to savor every moment of this incredible journey.

The Stone Zoo and Mirador San Pedro are on the cards for tomorrow, so stay tuned for another immersive blog article, where I relay all of my experiences in the raw! I heard that the sunset views from Mirador San Pedro are to die for, so I am really looking forward to that!

Until then!