The Enchanting Three Marias Valley of the Moon
Explore the mesmerizing Three Marias Valley of the Moon, a surreal destination in San Pedro de Atacama with breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations.
Nestled in the captivating landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama, the Three Marias Valley of the Moon is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking breathtaking views and unique geological formations. This stunning natural site, characterized by its moon-like terrain, offers a surreal experience that is both mesmerizing and humbling. Ideal for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, the valley showcases striking rock formations, vast salt flats, and vibrant sunsets that paint the sky in pastel hues. With a rich history and stunning vistas, the Three Marias Valley is an unforgettable highlight of any Chilean journey.
A brief summary to The three Marias Valley of the Moon
- Unnamed Road, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best light and stunning photographic opportunities.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for rocky terrain, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense, even in cooler months.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain insights into the unique geology and history of the area.
- Respect local customs and the natural environment by staying on marked paths and not disturbing wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
From San Pedro de Atacama, head southwest on Route 23 towards the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon). Drive for about 12 km until you reach the entrance of the Parque Nacional de la Lengua de la Luna. There is a small entrance fee of approximately CLP 3,000 (around $4 USD) per person to enter the park. Once inside, follow the signs towards the Three Marias formation, which is a short drive further along the park road. The entire journey takes around 30 minutes.
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Public Transportation
From San Pedro de Atacama, take a local bus or shared taxi (colectivo) heading to Valle de la Luna. The fare is about CLP 2,500 (approximately $3.50 USD). The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once at the entrance of the park, you may need to pay the entrance fee of CLP 3,000 (around $4 USD). After entering, you can either walk or take a guided tour to the Three Marias formation, which is well-marked.
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Guided Tour
Join a guided tour from San Pedro de Atacama that includes transportation to the Valle de la Luna. These tours typically cost between CLP 15,000 to CLP 30,000 (approximately $20 to $40 USD) per person and include the entrance fee. Tours usually depart in the late afternoon to catch the sunset views at the Three Marias, and they will provide all necessary transportation and guidance.
Discover more about The three Marias Valley of the Moon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Moon Valley Amphitheater
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Mirador Achaches
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Duna Mayor
4.0 km
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Casas Valle de la Luna
9.4 km
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Ojo del Desierto
10.8 km
Experience comfort and tranquility at Ojo del Desierto, your gateway to exploring the Atacama Desert's wonders in San Pedro de Atacama.
Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa
10.9 km
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Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa
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Altiplanico San Pedro de Atacama
11.7 km
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San Pedro De Atacama
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Atacama Rock and Tours
12.0 km
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Alabalti Atacama
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Calle Caracoles
12.1 km
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Casa de Piedra Atacameña
12.1 km
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Adobe
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La Picada Del Indio
12.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Valley of the Moon
3.3 km
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Magic Bus Atacama
4.9 km
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Mirador de Kari - Piedra del Coyote
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Valle de Marte
7.6 km
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Centro de Información Valle de la Luna
8.9 km
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Coyo
9.0 km
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San Pedro De Atacama | Sanpedronline.cl
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Tour Astronomico | Observatorio Hemisferio Sur
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Tulor
9.5 km
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Mars Valley / Death Valley
10.0 km
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Cruz Papal
10.8 km
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Puerta del Sol - Mirador Valle de la Muerte
10.8 km
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Rotonda de Sequitor
11.0 km
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Pukará de Quitor
11.2 km
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Mirador San Pedro
11.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Ckunna
11.8 km
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Baltinache Restaurant
11.9 km
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Restaurante Bar Agua Loca
11.9 km
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Paachas
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LA PICÁ DEL PERRÓN
11.9 km
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Mal de Puna
11.9 km
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Paatcha tierra divina
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Kusa
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Inca's Restaurant
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Las Delicias de Carmen
12.0 km
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La Casona
12.0 km
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Karaván Restobar
12.0 km
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La Parada del Desierto
12.0 km
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Jardin Meraki
12.0 km
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El Huerto
12.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Atelier de Joyas Daniela León
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Las Salinas,
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Explora Atacama
11.7 km
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Valimport Supermarket
11.9 km
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Piedras Australes
11.9 km
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Chañar - Taller de artesanos
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Chile Infinito
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siempre GIRLS
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Emporio Andino
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Centro San Pedro Atacama
12.0 km
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Artesanías Santa Ana
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Arte Minga
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Almacén INKA
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Librería del Desierto
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Galeria Kunza
12.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurant Kunza
11.4 km
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Perrock
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REDSTONS food-cocktails-pizzas italianas
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RestoBar Nativo
12.0 km
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ChelaCabur
12.1 km
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Botilleria Nueva Atacama
12.1 km
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Roots Cafe Pizza
12.3 km
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Cervecería St. Peter
12.3 km
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Restobar Amigos San Pedro de Atacama
12.9 km
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Tres Higeras
43.8 km
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Paulina Coctelería
80.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kratter Club Tattoo
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Night Club EL SEÑOR DE LA NOCHE Calama
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