Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Valle de la Luna with Friends

Whispers from the Valley of the Moon

Today felt like a culmination of everything we’ve experienced in the Atacama. As our trip nears its end, I found myself reflecting on the sheer magnitude of this desert, its ability to make you feel both infinitesimally small and incredibly connected to something larger than yourself. The landscapes we explored today were stark reminders of nature's artistry, sculpted over millennia by wind, water, and time. It was a day of breathtaking views, shared laughter, and quiet contemplation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sol Inti. I opted for a traditional Chilean dish, savoring the flavors while Hans enjoyed a lighter, more European-style meal. It’s funny how even in such a remote place, our different culinary preferences still shine through. Fuelled up, we set off to Mirador de Kari - Piedra del Coyote.


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!
The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming into a palette of ochre, red, and brown. As we approached the Mirador de Kari, the iconic Piedra del Coyote came into view. This precarious rock formation, jutting out into the vast expanse, is a photographer's dream. Though we couldn't climb on the stone itself due to its fragility, the view from the mirador was simply breathtaking. The panoramic vista of the Cordillera de la Sal was mesmerizing, the play of light and shadow creating an ever-changing canvas. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but some moments are just too grand to be contained in a photograph.

The desert is a silent teacher, whispering lessons of resilience, adaptation, and the beauty of simplicity.

After soaking in the views at Piedra del Coyote, we ventured into Mars Valley, also known as Death Valley.


Explore Mars on Earth: Discover the surreal landscapes of Mars Valley in Chile's Atacama Desert. Hiking, sandboarding, and otherworldly beauty await.
The name might sound ominous, but the landscape was more surreal than scary. The valley is characterized by its strange geomorphic formations, rocky natural sculptures, and undulating dunes. As we hiked through the valley, I couldn't help but feel like we had landed on another planet. The colors were otherworldly – reds, oranges, and browns blending together in a bizarre harmony. It was easy to see why it's also called Mars Valley. The arid climate and clear skies made it easy to imagine we were walking on the surface of the red planet.

Hans, ever the adventurous one, was keen on trying sandboarding. I watched, amused and slightly nervous, as he navigated the dunes with varying degrees of success. There were a few tumbles and a lot of laughter, which is all part of the experience, I suppose. I stuck to hiking, preferring to keep my feet firmly planted on the ground. The solitude of Mars Valley was profound. It was easy to lose yourself in the silence, broken only by the whisper of the wind and the crunch of sand under our boots. We spent hours exploring, taking photos, and simply marveling at the landscape. It's a place that invites contemplation, a space to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world.

Lunch at Rincón de Sal was a welcome break.


Experience exquisite pizza and local brews at Rincón de Sal in San Pedro de Atacama – your go-to dining destination for flavor and fun.
The traditional Chilean food was hearty and satisfying, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant was a perfect contrast to the stark beauty of the desert. Over lunch, we talked about our favorite moments from the trip so far, reminiscing about the geysers, the salt flats, and the stargazing experiences.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Kankas, a local bar in San Pedro.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Chile at Kankas, a top gastropub in San Pedro de Atacama, blending tradition with modern culinary artistry.
The atmosphere was lively, a mix of locals and tourists all unwinding after a day of exploring. I opted for a local beer, while Hans tried a Pisco Sour, a Chilean classic. The bar had a good selection of drinks and the staff was attentive. It was a pleasant way to end the day, sharing stories and laughter with friends. I enjoyed a refreshing watermelon juice.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our last day in the Atacama, we plan to visit Laguna Chaxa Park and the Centro de Información Valle de la Luna. I’m hoping to capture a few more stunning landscapes before we head back to Berlin. It’s hard to believe our adventure is almost over. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of stepping outside of our comfort zones, of embracing the unknown, and of appreciating the simple beauty of the natural world.

The Atacama has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. I know I will carry the memories of this trip with me long after we've left, a reminder of the power and beauty of our planet.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had, for the people we've met, and for the landscapes we've witnessed. The Atacama Desert has been a truly unforgettable destination, a place that has challenged, inspired, and transformed us in ways we never expected. It’s time to rest before our final day here, where we plan to have breakfast at Mal de Puna, lunch at HUASCO TIERRA NOBLE, and dinner at La Picada Del Indio. I might even pick up a souvenir at Rockford before we leave! Goodnight!