Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Valle de la Luna with Friends

Whispers of the Desert Sky

Today was a day of contrasts, a dance between the earthly and the cosmic. We started our journey deep within the heart of the Atacama, then soared to the stars, and finally landed amidst the vibrant colours of local artistry. It’s amazing how much wonder can be packed into a single day, especially when shared with friends!

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at La Picá Del Perrón. Fueled up with local flavors, we set off to explore the Devil's Throat. The name itself conjured images of a formidable landscape, and it didn't disappoint. As we drove from San Pedro de Atacama towards Valle de la Luna, the anticipation grew with every kilometer. The landscape transformed into a canvas of surreal beauty, with dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations dominating the horizon. The vibrant colours of the rocks, shifting from deep reds to bright yellows, were a sight to behold. I couldn't help but think of Hans and how much he would have loved to capture this with his camera. The trails were well-maintained, making it accessible for both casual walkers and more adventurous hikers. As we ventured deeper, the peaceful atmosphere enveloped us, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It was easy to see why this place is called Devil's Throat; the narrow, twisting passageways felt like entering another world.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Devil's Throat in San Pedro de Atacama, where nature's artistry meets dramatic landscapes and serene tranquility.

The desert and the cosmos: both vast, silent, and filled with endless possibilities.

After navigating the Devil's Throat, we were ready for a change of pace, and the Meteorite Museum was next on our list. Founded by Rodrigo Martinez, a renowned meteorite hunter, the museum houses an impressive collection of meteorites found in the Atacama Desert.
Stepping into the Meteorite Museum was like entering a different dimension. The museum is located a few blocks north of the main square. Inside, we were greeted by a fascinating display of meteorites, each with its own unique story to tell. The museum displays a superb collection of meteorites found in the region.
The museum, which has received the Traveller's Choice award several times, displays a collection of over 6,600 pieces, with 77 of the most relevant ones on display. It's the result of over 40 years of tireless searching in the Atacama Desert by two brothers.
The museum tour is an educational journey through the history of our solar system, narrated by the meteorites themselves. We learned about the origins of the solar system, touched legitimate sidereal rocks, and even saw a specimen of a primitive asteroid. The museum collaborates with CEREGE in France, NASA, and UCLA for the study and classification of their findings.
I felt a childlike wonder as I gazed at these ancient rocks, remnants from the very beginnings of our solar system. It was an experience that grounded me, making me feel both incredibly small and intimately connected to the vastness of the universe. I even bought a small meteorite pendant as a reminder of this cosmic encounter. I thought of my niece, Emma, and how her eyes would light up at the sight of these celestial wonders. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

Explore the Meteorite Museum in San Pedro de Atacama, a treasure trove of cosmic wonders and celestial artifacts waiting to be discovered.
After our cosmic journey, we were ready to immerse ourselves in the local culture. We headed to Feria Artesanal San Pedro de Atacama, a bustling artisan market. This market is a vibrant hub where local artisans display their crafts.
The market was a feast for the senses, with colorful textiles, intricate jewelry, and unique souvenirs at every turn. I picked up a beautifully woven alpaca scarf, a perfect reminder of our time in the Atacama. It was lovely chatting with the artisans, learning about their techniques and the stories behind their creations. The fair is a corridor filled with stalls where you can buy souvenirs.

Explore the enchanting Feria Artesanal San Pedro de Atacama, a vibrant marketplace showcasing the best of Chilean artisan culture and traditional crafts.
As the day drew to a close, we gathered at Restaurante Museo del Pisco for dinner. I was intrigued by the name, and eager to sample some traditional Chilean cuisine. The restaurant lived up to its promise, offering a delightful culinary experience. We started with Pisco Sours, the quintessential Chilean cocktail, before diving into a hearty meal of seafood and local specialties.
The Restaurante Museo del Pisco aims to share the history and culture of Pisco in Peru with every visitor. The walls are adorned with information about the history of pisco, and the bar features pisco-making equipment. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the pisco sommelier can suggest the ideal pisco drink for every palate. The drinks menu focuses on pisco, with 8 grape varieties and 50 brands available.
The restaurant offers a tapas-style menu with a mix of dishes perfect for sharing. Live music starts every night at 9 pm. It was the perfect way to reflect on the day’s adventures, sharing stories and laughter with friends. As we savoured the last bites of our meal, we raised our glasses to another day of unforgettable experiences in the Atacama. The restaurant provided a cozy and atmospheric setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. We enjoyed some local cuisine and, of course, sampled their pisco.

Discover culinary excellence at Restaurante Museo del Pisco in Vallenar - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques and Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos [if it's not the last day of the trip, mention the next day's itinerary]. I'm particularly excited about seeing the flamingos! Before heading back to our campsite for the night, we made one last stop at a local bar called Lola's for a nightcap, a perfect end to an adventurous day.
As I lay in my tent, gazing up at the starlit sky, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The Atacama Desert had woven its magic, leaving me with memories that I would cherish forever. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of meteorites, artisans, and the endless wonders of the universe.