Exploring the Wonders of San Pedro de Atacama with Friends

Salty Air and Sweet Dips

Today, San Pedro de Atacama revealed more of its stark beauty. From the mesmerizing dance of flamingos in a shimmering lagoon to the invigorating thrill of a desert plunge, it was a day of contrasts and unforgettable moments. Come along as I share the sights, tastes, and feelings that painted my Wednesday in this otherworldly landscape.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at El Huerto. The fresh Chilean flavors were the perfect fuel for our adventures. Klara would have loved the vegetarian options here, I made a mental note to bring her here when we return to Chile. After breakfast, we set off with our friends towards Laguna Chaxa, a part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve. The drive itself was captivating, the landscape unfolding in hues of ochre and rust. The air was crisp, and the anticipation of seeing the flamingos was palpable.

Arriving at Laguna Chaxa, the sight was simply breathtaking. The lagoon shimmered under the high-altitude sun, its surface a mosaic of whites and blues. And then, there were the flamingos – dozens of them, wading gracefully in the shallow waters. They were the Parina Grande species, our guide told us, their pink plumage a stark contrast against the saline landscape. I tried to capture their beauty with my camera, but no photo could truly do justice to the scene. It was mesmerizing, almost meditative, watching these elegant birds in their natural habitat. What a sight!


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Laguna Chaxa Park in the Atacama Desert, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The desert teaches patience, the sky offers perspective, and the lagoons reflect the delicate balance of life.

As we left Laguna Chaxa, the heat was beginning to intensify. Fortunately, our next stop promised a refreshing escape: the Ojos del Salar. These 'Eyes of the Salt Flat' are two deep, circular pools of fresh water in the middle of the desert. They're like natural plunge pools, and the thought of diving into their cool depths was incredibly enticing. The drive to Ojos del Salar was short, and soon we were standing on the edge of one of the pools. The water looked dark and mysterious, and the drop was significant – a true test of courage. One by one, we took the plunge. The initial shock of the cold water was exhilarating, quickly giving way to pure joy. Swimming in those pools, surrounded by the stark desert landscape, was an experience I'll never forget. It felt like a secret oasis, a hidden gem in the heart of the Atacama.


Discover the surreal beauty of Ojos del Salar, San Pedro de Atacama, where crystal-clear pools meet the stark desert landscape.

After our refreshing dip, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Tierra Todo Natural, a restaurant known for its healthy and vegetarian-friendly options. The food was delicious and nourishing, just what we needed after our morning adventures. I enjoyed a quinoa salad packed with fresh vegetables, while my friends opted for empanadas and local dishes. It was a satisfying meal that rejuvenated us for the rest of the day.

With the afternoon stretching before us, we decided to indulge in some local shopping. We visited the Atacama Store, where I picked up a few souvenirs for Mateo and Klara. I found a beautiful hand-woven textile with traditional Atacameño patterns, which I know Klara will adore. Mateo will surely appreciate the small, hand-carved wooden llama I found. It's always special to bring back a piece of the places we visit, a tangible reminder of our adventures. I also wanted to visit Atacamena, but maybe tomorrow.


Explore the Atacama Store in San Pedro de Atacama for essential supplies and unique local souvenirs in the heart of the Atacama Desert.

As evening approached, we sought out a place to unwind and reflect on the day. Cervecería St. Peter beckoned with the promise of local craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere. We sampled a few different brews, each with its own unique flavor profile. The brewery had a cozy vibe, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. It was the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploration.


Discover the flavors of Atacama at Cervecería St. Peter, where craft beer meets local cuisine in a vibrant brewpub atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Ckunna, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Chilean cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the menu featured a variety of traditional dishes. I decided to try the pastel de choclo, a savory corn pie filled with meat and vegetables. It was hearty and flavorful, a true taste of Chile. My friends tried other local specialties, and we all agreed that Ckunna was a culinary highlight of our trip.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Ckunna in San Pedro de Atacama – where local flavors meet stunning desert landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we stepped outside to marvel at the Atacama sky. Far from city lights, the stars shone with an intensity I'd never seen before. The Milky Way stretched across the heavens like a river of light, and countless constellations twinkled in the inky blackness. It was a humbling and awe-inspiring sight, a reminder of the vastness of the universe and our place within it. I wish Mateo was here to see it, he is so fascinated by planets and stars. He would have been in awe.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore El Tunel and Pukará de Quitor, continuing our journey through the wonders of San Pedro de Atacama. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, what new landscapes will capture our hearts. But for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of today, a day filled with flamingos, refreshing plunges, and the magic of the desert sky. I also plan on visiting Amaru Artesanias and Lola's tomorrow.

I am so glad I decided to come back to my home country. It feels great to reconnect with my roots, and to explore the beautiful landscapes that Chile has to offer. I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all.

Until tomorrow,
Juan.