Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Valle de la Luna with Friends

A Day of Desert Dreams

Today was nothing short of magical. From quirky buses to towering dunes, and from savory local dishes to refreshing craft beers, Valle de la Luna truly delivered an unforgettable experience. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a life of travel, seeking out the extraordinary in the everyday.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Casona. The traditional Chilean flavors were the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure. I opted for a pastel de choclo, while Hans went for the carne al jugo. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a day filled with exploration made it a perfect start. We met up with our friends, and after a quick coffee, we were ready to embrace the desert. Our first stop was the Magic Bus Atacama. It’s funny, I’ve seen pictures of this quirky landmark, this relic sitting in the middle of nowhere, but nothing prepared me for the actual experience. The bus, adorned with graffiti and surrounded by the vast desert landscape, was a photographer's dream. We spent a good hour exploring its interior, snapping photos, and just soaking in the surreal atmosphere. It’s amazing how something so seemingly ordinary can become so extraordinary in the right setting. Flavia Bia's personalized service truly allowed us to appreciate the beauty of the region without the constraints of fixed itineraries.

The desert is a canvas of endless possibilities, where every grain of sand tells a story of time and transformation.

Discover the enchanting Magic Bus Atacama in San Pedro, where stunning desert landscapes meet unique cultural experiences.
Next, we headed to Duna Mayor. I knew it would be impressive, but the sheer scale of the dune took my breath away. The climb was challenging, especially under the strong desert sun, but the panoramic views from the top were worth every ounce of effort. The wind-sculpted sands and the distant Salt Mountain Range created a vista that felt both otherworldly and deeply grounding. I even saw a few people sandboarding down the dune, which looked like a blast! Next time, I’m definitely bringing a board.

Experience the stunning beauty of Duna Mayor in Valle de la Luna, a must-visit destination in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.
After our sandy escapade, we were famished. We decided to have lunch at Ckunna. This restaurant is known for its Altiplanic fusion cuisine, and it did not disappoint. I tried the ceviche de salmón with camarones, while Hans had a grilled steak with chañar sauce. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. The restaurant itself was charming, with a rustic décor and a cozy outdoor patio. It felt like a true oasis in the middle of the desert.

Discover authentic Chilean flavors at Ckunna in San Pedro de Atacama – where local ingredients meet traditional recipes.
As the afternoon waned, we sought out Jardin Meraki for dinner. This place is all about rescuing the best local products and organic crops grown in the driest desert in the world. The setting was magical – a beautiful garden terrace where we enjoyed their excellent menu. I opted for a vegetarian dish made with local vegetables, while Hans enjoyed a hearty burger. We paired our meals with some local wine, savoring every moment as the sun began to set.

Discover Jardin Meraki: A culinary gem in San Pedro de Atacama offering exquisite local flavors amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.
To cap off the day, we decided to visit Cervecería St. Peter. After a day of hiking and exploring, nothing sounded better than a cold craft beer. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the beer selection was impressive. We sampled a few different brews, chatting with the locals and sharing stories of our travels. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the incredible day we had experienced.

Experience the vibrant flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Cervecería St. Peter, a cozy brewpub offering artisanal beers and local dishes.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Coyo and Toconao. I’ve heard that Coyo is home to the magnificent Duna Mayor, which we saw today, and that Toconao is a charming village with a rich history and unique architecture. I’m also looking forward to visiting Kunza, a local shop known for its artisanal crafts. It’s always a pleasure to support local businesses and find unique souvenirs to bring back home to Berlin. And of course, we'll be sure to grab breakfast at Baltinache Restaurant, lunch at Rincón de Sal, and dinner at Mal de Puna. As I sit here, writing this blog post under the vast, starlit sky of the Atacama Desert, I can’t help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Valle de la Luna has exceeded all my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. The blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty has been truly inspiring, and I know that these memories will stay with me long after I return to Berlin. Goodnight from the desert!