Exploring the Wonders of San Pedro de Atacama with Friends

Cosmic Wonders and Culinary Curiosities

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of the vastness of the cosmos and the intimate flavors of the Atacama. It’s funny how travel can be like that, isn’t it? One moment you're contemplating the universe, the next you’re debating which empanada filling is superior. I was excited to experience both with my friends, diving deep into the Atacama's unique offerings.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Parada del Desierto. The strong coffee was exactly what I needed to shake off the early morning chill. I opted for a traditional Chilean breakfast, which included scrambled eggs, avocado, and some delicious local bread. Fueled up and ready, we set off towards the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) Radio Telescope. As a mobile app developer specializing in tourism apps, I am always intrigued by technological marvels, and ALMA certainly fits the bill. The sheer scale of the facility is impressive. Seeing those massive antennas against the backdrop of the desert landscape was something else. Unfortunately, as I learned, ALMA doesn't offer public visits, but it can receive educational, scientific, or media visits, which must be requested one month in advance. I was hoping to get a closer look at the high-tech systems that capture signals from the cosmos. Maybe next time I will plan ahead and request a visit in advance. Still, just being in its presence was inspiring.


Discover the universe like never before at the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, a premier observatory in the breathtaking Atacama Desert.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new perspectives.

Next on our agenda was the Tour Astronomico | Observatorio Hemisferio Sur. As someone who spends a lot of time staring at screens, the idea of gazing at the actual stars felt incredibly appealing. Klara, my wife, always jokes that I need to look up more often. Well, today was the day! The observatory is located just 10 km southwest of San Pedro de Atacama, in Ayllu de Tulor. The tour started with a 20-minute talk inside a geodesic dome, where they explained basic concepts of astronomy. Then, we moved to a platform where we observed the night sky through a 20-inch Dobson telescope. Finally, we went inside a dome with a rotating cupola, where we observed deep-space objects using a 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. The experience was educational and awe-inspiring. I even tried my hand at astrophotography, though I think I need more practice. Mateo, my son, would have loved this. I'll have to bring him here someday.


Discover the wonders of the night sky at Observatorio Hemisferio Sur in San Pedro de Atacama, where stargazers can immerse themselves in celestial beauty.

After our cosmic journey, it was time to come back down to earth, or rather, back to the desert. Lunch was at Pizzería El Charrúa. I had read mixed reviews, but my friends were craving pizza, and sometimes you just have to go with the flow. I must say, the pizza was decent enough after a long day of exploring. The crust was thin and crispy, and the toppings were fresh. It wasn't the best pizza I've ever had, but it certainly hit the spot. Plus, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming, perfect for a casual lunch with friends.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Pizzería El Charrúa in San Pedro de Atacama – where every slice tells a story.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the local shops. Arte Minga caught our eye with its display of colorful textiles. As someone interested in sustainable living, I appreciated their commitment to showcasing local talent and sustainable practices. I ended up buying a beautiful alpaca wool scarf for Klara, hoping she’d like the colors I picked out. It’s always a gamble when I shop for her without her around. The shop had a variety of high-quality scarves, pullovers, and ponchos crafted from luxurious alpaca wool. It was a great place to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans.


Explore the unique offerings of Arte Minga, a charming women's clothing store in San Pedro de Atacama, where local culture meets modern fashion.

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Baltinache Restaurant for a pre-dinner drink. I had read that it was one of the best restaurants in town, known for its indigenous dishes with a Bolivian flair. The restaurant is run by two young Bolivian sisters who have transformed the place into a culinary gem. While we only had drinks at the bar, the atmosphere was fantastic, and the menu looked incredible. I made a mental note to come back for a proper dinner before we leave San Pedro de Atacama.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Baltinache Restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Finally, for dinner, we headed to Restaurante Patta Hoiri. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance. The menu featured traditional Chilean dishes, and I decided to try the Pastel de Choclo, a Chilean corn pie with beef, chicken, olives, onions, and a hard-boiled egg. It was rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. My friends tried other local specialties, and everyone was happy with their choices. The service was excellent, and the staff was friendly and attentive.


Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Restaurante Patta Hoiri in scenic San Pedro de Atacama - a must-visit for food lovers.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have one last drink at the Baltinache Restaurant bar before heading back to the Diego de Almagro Hotel. Sipping on a local beer, I reflected on the day’s adventures. From the vastness of the cosmos to the flavors of the Atacama, it had been a day of incredible contrasts and unforgettable experiences. As I prepare for tomorrow, I'm excited about visiting Yerbas Buenas to see the petroglyphs and Cruz Papal, another chance to delve into the cultural and historical richness of this region. I’m traveling with my friends, but tomorrow I might venture out solo for a bit, just to soak in the solitude of the desert. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share my experiences with all of you. Good night from San Pedro de Atacama!


Experience the charm of San Pedro de Atacama at the cozy Diego de Almagro, featuring comfortable accommodations, a pool, and superb dining.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the petroglyphs at Yerbas Buenas and visit Cruz Papal. It’s going to be another day of delving into the history and culture of this fascinating region. I'm already looking forward to it!