Exploring the Wonders of San Pedro de Atacama with Friends

Sculptures in the Sand and Coastal Serenity

Today was a day of contrasts, from the stark, artistic statement in the middle of nowhere to the tranquil beauty of Chile's coastal desert. It's amazing how much variety this region holds, and I'm excited to share the experiences with you.

Our ninth day in San Pedro de Atacama began with a hearty breakfast at Inca's Restaurant. I fueled up with some traditional Chilean fare, knowing we had a long day of exploring ahead. Klara would have loved this place, especially their dedication to local ingredients. I made a mental note to try and recreate one of their dishes for her and Mateo when I get back to Potsdam.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors in San Pedro de Atacama at Inca's Restaurant, where every dish tells a story.

First on the agenda was a visit to the Hand of the Desert, or 'Mano del Desierto' as it's known locally. It’s one of those landmarks you see in pictures and think, I have to see that in person. And let me tell you, it doesn't disappoint. As we drove further away from San Pedro, the landscape transformed into that classic Atacama Desert scenery – vast, barren, and incredibly dramatic. The drive itself was an experience, the endless road cutting through the ochre-colored plains. It reminded me of some of the landscapes near my hometown of Los Ángeles, but on a much grander, almost alien scale.


Discover the awe-inspiring Hand of the Desert in Antofagasta, Chile, a monumental sculpture that celebrates human creativity in a stunning desert landscape.

Finally, we spotted it – a colossal hand reaching out from the sand, as if a giant were buried beneath the surface. The sculpture is the work of Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal, and it’s truly a sight to behold. It stands so isolated, emphasizing the sheer scale of the desert. I learned that Irarrázabal created it as a symbol of human vulnerability and helplessness. Standing there, with the wind whipping around us and nothing but desert stretching to the horizon, I definitely felt a sense of awe and humility.

I spent some time wandering around, taking photos from different angles. It’s fascinating how the light changes the sculpture’s appearance throughout the day. I tried to imagine what it must have been like when it was first installed back in 1992. It’s become such an iconic image of the Atacama, and I’m glad I finally got to see it for myself. I can see why people come to this place, it's not just to see the sculpture, but to reflect.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After soaking in the Hand of the Desert, we hopped back in the car and set our course for Parque Nacional Pan de Azúcar. The drive was longer than I expected, but the scenery was worth it. As we approached the coast, the landscape began to change again, from the arid desert to a more rugged, coastal environment. The air grew cooler, and I could smell the ocean – a welcome change after days in the dry desert air.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Pan de Azúcar, a must-visit national park along the Chilean coast.

Pan de Azúcar National Park is a hidden gem. It’s located on the coast, and it's a complete contrast to the landscapes I've been exploring inland. The park combines desert and sea, creating a unique ecosystem that’s home to a surprising amount of wildlife. As we entered the park, the first thing I noticed was the mist – the 'camanchaca' as it's called here. This coastal fog is crucial for the park's flora, providing moisture to the cacti and other desert plants.

We decided to explore the park on foot, taking one of the many hiking trails that wind along the coast. The views were stunning – rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean stretching out before us. I could see why this place is called Pan de Azúcar, or Sugar Bread – the rounded, rocky hills resemble loaves of sugar.

One of the highlights of the park is the chance to see Humboldt penguins. These adorable birds nest on Isla Pan de Azúcar, a rocky island just off the coast. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to get a boat tour out to the island. Instead, we spent some time birdwatching from the shore, spotting pelicans, cormorants, and other seabirds. I learned that the park is also home to guanacos, foxes, and various reptiles, although we didn’t see any of those today.

I was able to capture some great photos, the light was fantastic, and the scenery was incredible. The combination of the desert, the ocean, and the wildlife made for some truly memorable moments. It was a welcome change of pace after the stark landscapes of the Atacama Desert, a reminder of the diversity of Chile's natural beauty.

After our hike, we were ready for a late lunch. We stopped at La Tribu Del Indio, a restaurant on the way back to San Pedro. The food was delicious, hearty, and just what we needed after a day of exploring. I tried a local specialty, a kind of stew with llama meat and vegetables. It was a flavorful and satisfying meal, a perfect end to our coastal adventure.


Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at La Tribu Del Indio in Toconao, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.

I also picked up a few souvenirs at El Rincón del Viajero. I like to get Klara and Mateo something special from each trip.


Discover the perfect blend of fashion and functionality at El Rincón del Viajero in San Pedro de Atacama, your go-to store for all outdoor and fashion needs.

Back in San Pedro, I decided to check out Aura Andina, a bar I had heard good things about. It was a great spot to unwind after a long day. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the drinks were refreshing. I chatted with some other travelers, sharing stories and tips about the Atacama. It’s always interesting to meet people from different backgrounds and hear about their experiences.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Aura Andina, a culinary gem in San Pedro de Atacama, where local ingredients meet Andean tradition.

As I sit here writing this, I'm already thinking about tomorrow’s adventure. We’re planning to visit Mars Valley and the Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques, two more iconic Atacama destinations. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this incredible region and sharing my experiences with you. I’ve heard Mars Valley is like stepping onto another planet, and the Lagunas are supposed to be stunning, high-altitude lakes. I'll be sure to pack my hiking boots and camera!

It's amazing how much variety there is to see and do here. From the stark beauty of the desert to the vibrant life of the coast, the Atacama is full of surprises. I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience it all, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

I’m also reminded of how much I miss Klara and Mateo. I know they would love this trip, especially the wildlife in Pan de Azúcar. I can’t wait to share my photos and stories with them when I get back to Potsdam. Maybe we can even plan a trip to Chile together someday. Mateo would be thrilled to see the penguins!

Until then, I’ll keep exploring, keep learning, and keep sharing my adventures with you. Stay tuned for more from the Atacama Desert!