Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Valle de la Luna with Friends

Martian Landscapes and Coyote's View

Today felt like stepping onto another planet. The Valle de la Luna, with its otherworldly landscapes, truly lived up to its reputation. Hans would have loved this, maybe next time I can convince him to come with me on one of my adventures. The stark beauty of the desert, the way the light plays on the rocks, it's all so incredibly captivating. It's amazing how much a place can remind you of home, even when it looks nothing like it. There's a certain 'hygge' to be found even in the most desolate landscapes, a sense of peace and connection that resonates deep within.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Baltinache Restaurant. I had the scrambled eggs with some local herbs. It was a great start to fuel our explorations. After breakfast, my friends and I were eager to dive into the lunar landscapes of the Atacama. Our first stop: Mars Valley, also known as Death Valley.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mars Valley, where the unique terrain and stunning vistas create an otherworldly experience.
Mars Valley, or Valle de la Muerte, is located near San Pedro de Atacama, at an altitude of around 2,500 meters. The name 'Death Valley' is actually a linguistic distortion of 'Mars Valley', which more accurately reflects its red rock features and otherworldly beauty. As we entered the valley, the landscape transformed into a panorama of vibrant red rock formations, resembling the surface of Mars. The reddish, copper, and ochre tones dominated the landscape. It felt like we had been transported to another planet. We wandered through the unique geological features, each turn offering a new perspective and a stunning photo opportunity. The contrasting colors of the rocks against the clear blue sky were simply breathtaking. I made sure to capture as many photos as possible, knowing that these memories would be cherished forever. I even tried my hand at sandboarding on one of the dunes, which was way harder than it looks, but also incredibly fun !

The desert reveals its secrets to those who travel with an open heart.

After spending a good part of the morning exploring Mars Valley, we worked up quite an appetite. Lunch at Ckunna was a welcome treat. I opted for a traditional Chilean dish, and it was absolutely delicious. It’s always a pleasure to experience the local flavors and immerse myself in the culture through its cuisine.

In the afternoon, we headed to Mirador de Kari, also known as Piedra del Coyote. This viewpoint is one of the most famous spots in San Pedro de Atacama, offering a panoramic view of the Cordillera de la Sal. Mirador de Kari is located 2,550 meters above sea level. As we arrived, the view was simply stunning. The Mirador de Kari provides unparalleled views of the Atacama Desert. We found the perfect spot to sit and wait for the sunset. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The warm hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the landscape, creating a mesmerizing scene. It was the kind of moment that makes you feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. I couldn't help but think of Hans and how much he would have appreciated this view. Maybe one day we can experience it together.


Experience panoramic views of the Atacama Desert and Valle de la Luna from the iconic Mirador de Kari - Piedra del Coyote. A photographer's dream!
After the breathtaking sunset, we decided to unwind at ChelaCabur, a local bar. It was the perfect way to end the day, sharing stories and laughter with my friends while enjoying some local drinks. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and it felt great to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.

For dinner, we decided to try Rincón de Sal. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and adventure.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. The Valle de la Luna has truly captured my heart with its surreal landscapes and breathtaking beauty. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to Pukará de Quitor, an ancient fortress, and Tulor, an archaeological site. I am excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating region. We will start the day with breakfast at Sol Inti, followed by lunch at La Picada Del Indio, and dinner at Mal de Puna. I am also planning to visit Amaru Artesanias, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs.

I am also reminded of the importance of sustainable travel. It is crucial that we respect and protect the natural environments we visit, ensuring that future generations can also experience their beauty and wonder. This is something I always try to keep in mind as I explore new destinations.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy binoculars and a portable phone charger tomorrow. It would be useful for the rest of our trip.

The memories of today will stay with me long after I leave this magical place. The Valle de la Luna has shown me that even in the most desolate landscapes, there is beauty to be found, and that the greatest adventures are often those shared with friends. And maybe, just maybe, I can convince Hans to join me next time. I know he would love it here.