Salar de Atacama: A Natural Wonder in the Heart of the Atacama Desert
Explore the stunning Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences.
Salar de Atacama, located near San Pedro de Atacama, is a stunning salt flat that captivates visitors with its unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets, creating an unforgettable travel experience.
A brief summary to Salar de Atacama
- 23°15'55.0S 68°05'18.6W, San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and photography opportunities.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be intense.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Consider joining a guided tour for insights into the area's geology and ecology.
- Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance from the flamingos and other animals.
Getting There
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Shuttle Bus
From your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama, head to the main square (Plaza de Armas). Look for local travel agencies that offer shuttle services to Salar de Atacama. Many agencies have signs advertising their tours, and you can compare prices and schedules. Make sure to confirm the departure times and whether the trip includes a guide.
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Tour Operator
Another option is to book a guided tour that includes transportation to Salar de Atacama. Many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama provide half-day or full-day tours that cover the salar along with other attractions in the region. Visit any tour agency near the Plaza de Armas, and ask about tours that go to Salar de Atacama specifically.
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Shared Taxi (Colectivo)
You can also take a shared taxi, known as 'colectivo', from San Pedro de Atacama to Salar de Atacama. Head towards the main street, Caracoles, where you can find shared taxis waiting for passengers. Make sure to ask the driver if they are heading to Salar de Atacama. This is often a more flexible and quicker option, but you might have to wait for the taxi to fill up before it departs.
Discover more about Salar de Atacama
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casas Valle de la Luna
38.0 km
Discover tranquility and breathtaking landscapes at Casas Valle de la Luna, your perfect base in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama.
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa
40.0 km
Experience the beauty of the Atacama Desert at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, where luxury meets nature in a breathtaking setting.
Ojo del Desierto
40.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Atacama Desert at Ojo del Desierto, a charming mountain cabin hotel perfect for your next adventure.
Chaxa
40.3 km
Discover the heart of San Pedro de Atacama at Chaxa, a cozy bed and breakfast offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure.
Atacama
40.3 km
Experience the magic of the Atacama Desert from a cozy hotel that blends comfort with adventure, perfect for unforgettable journeys and starry nights.
Hotel La Casa de Don Tomás
40.5 km
Experience the charm and comfort of Hotel La Casa de Don Tomás, your serene base for exploring the stunning landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama.
Craft village
40.6 km
Explore the Craft Village in San Pedro de Atacama for authentic handicrafts and a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of the Atacama desert.
Fundación de Cultura de San Pedro de Atacama
40.6 km
Discover the heart of Atacama's culture at the Fundación de Cultura de San Pedro de Atacama, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Hostal Atacama Ancestral
40.8 km
Discover the heart of San Pedro de Atacama at Hostal Atacama Ancestral, where traditional charm meets modern comfort amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Atacama Extrema
40.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Extrema's expertly guided sightseeing tours.
San Pedro Atacama Tours
40.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert with San Pedro Atacama Tours, offering unforgettable excursions into nature's most stunning landscapes.
Casa de Piedra Atacameña
40.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of the Atacama Desert at Casa de Piedra Atacameña, a delightful Western restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama.
Atacama Tours
41.0 km
Discover the beauty of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Tours, your guide to unforgettable adventures in San Pedro de Atacama.
Atacama Magic
41.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Magic, your premier sightseeing tour agency in San Pedro de Atacama.
Adobe
41.0 km
Experience the essence of Chilean cuisine at Adobe in San Pedro de Atacama, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Laguna Chaxa
10.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Chaxa in San Pedro de Atacama, a breathtaking lake surrounded by unique salt flats and vibrant wildlife.
Mirador Toconao
11.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and the enchanting beauty of the Atacama Desert at Mirador Toconao, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Plaza de Toconao
11.8 km
Explore the serene Plaza de Toconao, a cultural gem in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Toconao Bell tower
11.8 km
Discover the captivating Toconao Bell Tower, a stunning architectural gem in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, surrounded by rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Toconao
12.0 km
Experience the unique charm of Toconao, a traditional village in the Atacama Desert, rich in culture and stunning landscapes.
Ojos del Salar
20.7 km
Explore the stunning Ojos del Salar in San Pedro de Atacama, where crystal-clear lagoons meet breathtaking desert landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Laguna Tebinquiche
22.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Tebinquiche, a stunning lake in the Atacama Desert, Chile, renowned for its vibrant colors and serene landscapes.
Laguna Cejar
25.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Cejar, a stunning swimming lake in the Atacama Desert, ideal for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Laguna Piedra
26.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Piedra, a serene oasis in San Pedro de Atacama, surrounded by stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife.
Laguna Baltinache
30.4 km
Explore the stunning turquoise waters of Laguna Baltinache, a breathtaking lagoon in the Atacama Desert, perfect for tranquility and adventure.
Salar de Atacama
30.9 km
Experience the stunning Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile, where breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife await every traveler.
Llama Stargazing
34.4 km
Discover the beauty of the universe at Llama Stargazing, where the night sky comes alive with countless stars and cosmic wonders.
Centro Astronomico Starstravel Atacama
36.1 km
Discover the stellar beauty of the Atacama Desert at Centro Astronomico Starstravel, where the night sky unveils its celestial secrets.
Observatorio Hemisferio Sur ( tours astronómico) astronomía
36.2 km
Discover the secrets of the universe at the Observatorio Hemisferio Sur in San Pedro de Atacama, where stargazing meets expert guidance under the clearest skies.
Tour Astronomico | Observatorio Hemisferio Sur
36.2 km
Discover the wonders of the night sky at Observatorio Hemisferio Sur in San Pedro de Atacama, where stargazers can immerse themselves in celestial beauty.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Ephedra
34.8 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurante Ephedra in San Pedro de Atacama - where every dish celebrates local flavors and traditions.
Volkanico SmokeHouse
40.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of smoked cuisine at Volkanico SmokeHouse, where every dish tells a story amidst the stunning backdrop of San Pedro de Atacama.
Colchana
40.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Colchana in San Pedro de Atacama - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
La Conchana
40.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at La Conchana in San Pedro de Atacama—where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante Puca Pukara
40.5 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurante Puca Pukara in San Pedro de Atacama – a culinary journey through local flavors.
La Tribu Del Indio
40.6 km
Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at La Tribu Del Indio in Toconao, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.
Restaurante Patta Hoiri
40.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Restaurante Patta Hoiri in scenic San Pedro de Atacama - a must-visit for food lovers.
Baltinache Restaurant
40.7 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Baltinache Restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Restaurant CASA COLQUE
40.8 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Restaurant CASA COLQUE in San Pedro de Atacama - a culinary haven amidst stunning desert landscapes.
Pulperia Atacama
40.9 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Pulperia Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ckunza Tilar
40.9 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Ckunza Tilar in San Pedro de Atacama - where flavor meets tradition.
Kankas
40.9 km
Discover Kankas in San Pedro de Atacama - where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry in a vibrant gastropub setting.
Al tiro
40.9 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Al Tiro, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in San Pedro de Atacama.
Aura Andina
40.9 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Aura Andina in San Pedro de Atacama, where every meal is a taste of tradition amidst stunning desert views.
Estrella Negra
40.9 km
Discover Estrella Negra: A vegetarian gem in San Pedro de Atacama offering fresh, sustainable dishes amidst stunning desert scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Viña Santa Romina
11.4 km
Experience the beauty and flavor of Viña Santa Romina, a serene vineyard in San Pedro de Atacama, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking landscapes.
El Telar
11.8 km
Discover the essence of San Pedro de Atacama with unique handicrafts and local wines at El Telar, a charming souvenir store.
Atelier de Joyas Daniela León
38.6 km
Explore Atelier de Joyas Daniela León for unique handcrafted jewelry that reflects the rich culture and beauty of San Pedro de Atacama.
Las Salinas,
39.2 km
Explore Las Salinas in San Pedro de Atacama for unique local crafts, souvenirs, and an authentic shopping experience in the heart of the desert.
Casa Solcor Boutique Bed & Breakfast
40.0 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Casa Solcor Boutique Bed & Breakfast in San Pedro de Atacama, your gateway to desert adventures.
Explora Atacama
40.4 km
Experience the breathtaking Atacama Desert with luxurious accommodations and adventurous excursions at Explora Atacama, a premier hotel destination.
Almacen bambino
40.4 km
Discover unique home goods and local crafts at Almacen Bambino in Antofagasta, a perfect stop for authentic souvenirs.
Bordados y tejidos Rehegua
40.4 km
Discover the heart of Chilean craftsmanship at Bordados y tejidos Rehegua in San Pedro de Atacama, where every piece tells a story.
Eca Supermarket
40.5 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Eca Supermarket in San Pedro de Atacama, your go-to grocery destination while exploring the Atacama Desert.
NOI Casa Atacama
40.6 km
Experience luxury and sustainability at NOI Casa Atacama, your perfect base for exploring the stunning Atacama Desert.
La Despensa De Leyla
40.6 km
Experience the essence of Northern Chile at La Despensa De Leyla, a grocery store in San Pedro de Atacama offering local delicacies and fresh produce.
Awasi Atacama - Relais & Chateaux
40.7 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Awasi Atacama, a Relais & Chateaux hotel in the stunning Atacama Desert, Chile, where adventure meets comfort.
Detalles.Vitamina
40.7 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of local craftsmanship at Detalles.Vitamina, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan treasures.
Kunza
40.7 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Atacama through unique clothing and local crafts at Kunza, San Pedro de Atacama's premier fashion destination.
Atacamena
40.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Atacamena, the perfect place to capture the spirit of San Pedro de Atacama.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tres Higeras
11.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tres Higeras, a charming bar in San Pedro de Atacama, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local drinks amidst stunning desert views.
Restaurant Kunza
40.1 km
Experience the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Restaurant Kunza, where local ingredients meet stunning desert views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restobar Amigos San Pedro de Atacama
40.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Chile at Restobar Amigos in San Pedro de Atacama, where every meal is a celebration.
Cervecería St. Peter
40.8 km
Discover the essence of Atacama at Cervecería St. Peter, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and delightful local cuisine in San Pedro.
Roots Cafe Pizza
40.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Roots Cafe Pizza in San Pedro de Atacama, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy atmosphere.
ChelaCabur
41.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Pedro de Atacama at ChelaCabur, a lively bar with an extensive beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere.
REDSTONS food-cocktails-pizzas italianas
41.0 km
Experience the best of Italian gastronomy in San Pedro de Atacama at REDSTONS, where every pizza is a masterpiece.
RestoBar Nativo
41.0 km
Experience the authentic flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at RestoBar Nativo, where local cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Perrock
41.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Perrock, a gastropub offering innovative dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Botilleria Nueva Atacama
41.2 km
Discover the best of Chilean wines and spirits at Botilleria Nueva Atacama in the enchanting San Pedro de Atacama.
