Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Valle de la Luna with Friends

Whispers of the Desert
Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of stark artistic expression and the subtle charm of local culture. From the poignant statement of the Hand of the Desert to the warm hospitality and flavors of Valle de la Luna, it was a journey that touched both the soul and the senses. It's amazing how much you can experience in a single day, and I'm excited to share it all.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Centro de Eventos Valle de la Luna. The name suggested something grand, and while it was more modest than expected, the food was hearty and satisfying. We needed a good start to the day, knowing what lay ahead. I enjoyed some scrambled eggs with fresh bread and a strong coffee, fueling up for our explorations. It reminded me of the simple breakfasts Hans and I enjoy on weekends in Berlin, a comforting ritual before diving into the day's adventures.

With our bellies full, we set off to see the Hand of the Desert. The drive itself was mesmerizing. The landscape was barren yet beautiful, the vast expanse of the Atacama stretching out before us like an endless canvas. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp and clean. As we approached the sculpture, its imposing figure rose from the desert floor, a solitary monument in the middle of nowhere.

The Hand of the Desert, or *Mano del Desierto*, is a sculpture by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal. It's a massive concrete and iron structure, standing 11 meters tall, and it's meant to represent human vulnerability and helplessness. Knowing that it was created in honor of the victims of injustice and torture during the military regime in Chile gave the sculpture an even deeper meaning. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking piece, and I found myself strangely moved by it. It was a stark reminder of the pain and suffering that exists in the world, but also of the resilience of the human spirit.

I spent some time walking around the hand, taking photos from different angles. The sheer scale of it is impressive, and the way it rises from the desert floor is both surreal and awe-inspiring. I could see why it's become such a popular spot for tourists. There were a few other people there, but the vastness of the desert made it feel like we had the place to ourselves. It was a moment of quiet contemplation, a chance to reflect on the weight of history and the importance of remembering the past.


Explore the Hand of the Desert, a stunning sculpture in Antofagasta, Chile, blending art and nature in a breathtaking desert landscape.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the most desolate places.

After paying our respects to the Hand of the Desert, we continued our journey towards Casas Valle de la Luna. This was to be a different kind of experience, a chance to immerse ourselves in the local culture and see how people live in this remote corner of the world. The *casas* turned out to be charming bungalows, nestled in a quiet area. They were simple but comfortable, and the surrounding landscape was stunning. I could see the appeal of staying here, away from the hustle and bustle of San Pedro de Atacama.

We didn't stay at Casas Valle de la Luna, but we did stop to explore the area and chat with some of the locals. Everyone we met was incredibly friendly and welcoming, eager to share their stories and their way of life. I learned about the challenges of living in the desert, the importance of community, and the deep connection people have to the land. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the simple things in life that truly matter.


Experience tranquility near San Pedro de Atacama with comfortable, regionally-inspired houses and easy access to the Valley of the Moon.

For lunch, we headed to La Picada Del Indio, a restaurant recommended by several locals. It was a small, unassuming place, but the food was incredible. I ordered the *menú del día*, which included a starter, a main course, and dessert, all for a very reasonable price. The salmon ceviche was particularly refreshing, and the beef ribs were cooked to perfection. It was the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, a true taste of Chilean hospitality. Hans would have loved this place; he always appreciates a good, hearty meal after a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at La Picada Del Indio in San Pedro de Atacama - where every dish tells a story.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a bit of shopping at El Rincón del Viajero. It was a small shop, filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small items to bring back to Berlin – a hand-woven scarf for my mother, a small *lapis lazuli* stone for Hans, and a few postcards for friends. I always like to bring back something that captures the essence of a place, a tangible reminder of the experiences I've had.


Discover fashion and adventure essentials at El Rincón del Viajero, the ultimate clothing and camping store in San Pedro de Atacama.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Ckunna for dinner. This restaurant was a bit more upscale than La Picada Del Indio, but it still had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The building itself was historic, once the town's first school, adding to its charm. The menu featured a fusion of Altiplano flavors and modern culinary techniques, and everything we ordered was delicious. I tried the mushroom *quinotto* (a quinoa risotto), and it was one of the best meals I've had in Chile. Ckunna, meaning us in the native Kunza language, perfectly embodies its spirit by celebrating the region’s roots.


Discover authentic Chilean flavors at Ckunna in San Pedro de Atacama – where local ingredients meet traditional recipes.

The service at Ckunna was exceptional. The owner came to our table to welcome us and ensure everything was to our liking. It’s these personal touches that make a dining experience truly memorable. The ambiance was also wonderful, with a rustic interior and a cozy outdoor patio. It was the perfect setting to reflect on the day's adventures and savor the flavors of the Atacama.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had today. From the stark beauty of the Hand of the Desert to the warm hospitality of the locals and the delicious flavors of Valle de la Luna, it's been a day that has touched my heart and soul. It’s these kinds of days that make traveling so rewarding, the chance to see new things, meet new people, and experience different cultures.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Puerta del Sol - Mirador Valle de la Muerte and the Three Marias Valley of the Moon. I'm excited to see what other wonders this incredible landscape has in store for us. And perhaps, we'll find another cozy *restobar* like Restobar Amigos San Pedro de Atacama to unwind after a day of exploration. For now, though, I'm content to savor the memories of today and dream of the adventures yet to come.

The Atacama Desert continues to surprise and inspire me. It's a place of stark beauty and profound contrasts, a place where the human spirit shines brightly in the face of adversity. I feel so fortunate to be here, to witness its wonders and to share them with you. Until tomorrow, *¡adiós!*