Breathtaking Salar de Atacama: A Natural Wonder in the Heart of Chile
Experience the stunning Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile, where breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife await every traveler.
Salar de Atacama, located in the Atacama Desert, is a stunning salt flat that captivates visitors with its vast landscapes, unique geological formations, and vibrant wildlife. This natural wonder is a must-visit for anyone seeking adventure and beauty in Chile.
A brief summary to Salar de Atacama
- San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the local ecology and culture.
- Be mindful of altitude sickness; acclimate properly before your visit.
- Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Getting There
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Car
From Valle de la Luna, head east towards San Pedro de Atacama on Route 23. Continue on this road for approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) until you reach the intersection with Route 27. Turn left onto Route 27. Follow Route 27 for around 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), which will take you directly to Salar de Atacama. Keep an eye out for signposts indicating 'Salar de Atacama' as you approach the area.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, start by taking a local bus or shuttle from Valle de la Luna to San Pedro de Atacama. Buses frequently leave from the main square in San Pedro. The fare is typically around CLP 3,000 (approx. USD 3.50). Once in San Pedro, you can hire a taxi or join a tour group that offers transportation to Salar de Atacama. Taxi fares may vary, but expect to pay around CLP 20,000 to CLP 30,000 (approx. USD 25 to USD 35) for a round trip.
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Guided Tour
Another option is to book a guided tour that includes transportation from Valle de la Luna to Salar de Atacama. Many local tour companies offer packages that typically cost between CLP 40,000 to CLP 70,000 (approx. USD 50 to USD 90) per person. These tours usually provide all necessary transportation and sometimes include guides who can give you detailed information about the area.
Discover more about Salar de Atacama
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miscanti Lake
55.1 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Miscanti Lake, a serene high-altitude gem in the Atacama Desert, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Casas Valle de la Luna
61.1 km
Discover tranquility and breathtaking landscapes at Casas Valle de la Luna, your perfect base in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama.
Volcán Miñiques
61.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Volcán Miñiques, a majestic volcano in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
Mirador Achaches
61.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama from the breathtaking heights of Mirador Achaches, a must-visit viewpoint.
Ojo del Desierto
64.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Atacama Desert at Ojo del Desierto, a charming mountain cabin hotel perfect for your next adventure.
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa
64.3 km
Experience the beauty of the Atacama Desert at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, where luxury meets nature in a breathtaking setting.
Atacama
65.1 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
65.2 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.
Chaxa
65.2 km
Discover the heart of San Pedro de Atacama at Chaxa, a cozy bed and breakfast offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure.
Craft village
65.5 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
65.5 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.
Casa de Piedra Atacameña
65.6 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
65.6 km
Discover the beauty of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Tours, your guide to unforgettable adventures in San Pedro de Atacama.
Alabalti Atacama
65.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Atacama Desert with Alabalti Atacama's exceptional guided tours.
Adobe
65.6 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
20.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Chaxa in San Pedro de Atacama, a breathtaking lake surrounded by unique salt flats and vibrant wildlife.
Laguna Chaxa Park
24.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Laguna Chaxa Park in the Atacama Desert, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Ojos del Salar
40.4 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
40.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Tebinquiche, a stunning lake in the Atacama Desert, Chile, renowned for its vibrant colors and serene landscapes.
Mirador Toconao
42.4 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
42.4 km
Explore the serene Plaza de Toconao, a cultural gem in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Toconao Bell tower
42.4 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
42.6 km
Experience the unique charm of Toconao, a traditional village in the Atacama Desert, rich in culture and stunning landscapes.
Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache
44.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Chile.
Laguna Cejar
48.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Cejar, a stunning swimming lake in the Atacama Desert, ideal for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Laguna Piedra
49.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Piedra, a serene oasis in San Pedro de Atacama, surrounded by stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife.
Cordillera de la Sal
51.5 km
Explore the stunning Cordillera de la Sal in San Pedro de Atacama, where breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations await.
Laguna Baltinache
52.8 km
Explore the stunning turquoise waters of Laguna Baltinache, a breathtaking lagoon in the Atacama Desert, perfect for tranquility and adventure.
Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques
53.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques, a stunning natural wonder in the Andes Mountains of Chile, perfect for nature lovers.
Mirador Laguna Miñiques
54.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mirador Laguna Miñiques, a stunning viewpoint in the Atacama Desert, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Ephedra
59.4 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurante Ephedra in San Pedro de Atacama - where every dish celebrates local flavors and traditions.
Volkanico SmokeHouse
65.0 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
65.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Colchana in San Pedro de Atacama - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
La Conchana
65.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at La Conchana in San Pedro de Atacama—where every meal tells a story.
Baltinache Restaurant
65.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Baltinache Restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Restaurante Puca Pukara
65.4 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurante Puca Pukara in San Pedro de Atacama – a culinary journey through local flavors.
La Tribu Del Indio
65.5 km
Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at La Tribu Del Indio in Toconao, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.
Restaurante Patta Hoiri
65.5 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Restaurante Patta Hoiri in scenic San Pedro de Atacama - a must-visit for food lovers.
Pulperia Atacama
65.5 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Pulperia Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.
Paachas
65.6 km
Discover authentic Chilean flavors at Paachas in San Pedro de Atacama – where culinary excellence meets local charm.
Ckunna
65.6 km
Savor authentic Chilean cuisine at Ckunna in San Pedro de Atacama - a culinary delight amidst breathtaking landscapes.
La Casona
65.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at La Casona in San Pedro de Atacama – where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning desert scenery.
Inca's Restaurant
65.6 km
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors in San Pedro de Atacama at Inca's Restaurant, where every dish tells a story.
Kusa
65.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Kusa in San Pedro de Atacama - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
Karaván Restobar
65.6 km
Experience exceptional gastronomy at Karaván Restobar in San Pedro de Atacama—where local flavors meet vibrant nightlife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Viña Santa Romina
42.0 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
42.4 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
62.8 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,
63.5 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
64.7 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Casa Solcor Boutique Bed & Breakfast in San Pedro de Atacama, your gateway to desert adventures.
Explora Atacama
64.9 km
Experience the breathtaking Atacama Desert with luxurious accommodations and adventurous excursions at Explora Atacama, a premier hotel destination.
Almacen bambino
65.0 km
Discover unique home goods and local crafts at Almacen Bambino in Antofagasta, a perfect stop for authentic souvenirs.
Bordados y tejidos Rehegua
65.2 km
Discover the heart of Chilean craftsmanship at Bordados y tejidos Rehegua in San Pedro de Atacama, where every piece tells a story.
NOI Casa Atacama
65.2 km
Experience luxury and sustainability at NOI Casa Atacama, your perfect base for exploring the stunning Atacama Desert.
Awasi Atacama - Relais & Chateaux
65.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Awasi Atacama, a Relais & Chateaux hotel in the stunning Atacama Desert, Chile, where adventure meets comfort.
Eca Supermarket
65.3 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Eca Supermarket in San Pedro de Atacama, your go-to grocery destination while exploring the Atacama Desert.
Kunza
65.4 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Atacama through unique clothing and local crafts at Kunza, San Pedro de Atacama's premier fashion destination.
Detalles.Vitamina
65.4 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of local craftsmanship at Detalles.Vitamina, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan treasures.
La Despensa De Leyla
65.5 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.
Atacamena
65.6 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
42.5 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
64.4 km
Experience the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Restaurant Kunza, where local ingredients meet stunning desert views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cervecería St. Peter
65.5 km
Discover the essence of Atacama at Cervecería St. Peter, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and delightful local cuisine in San Pedro.
Restobar Amigos San Pedro de Atacama
65.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Chile at Restobar Amigos in San Pedro de Atacama, where every meal is a celebration.
Roots Cafe Pizza
65.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Roots Cafe Pizza in San Pedro de Atacama, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy atmosphere.
REDSTONS food-cocktails-pizzas italianas
65.6 km
Experience the best of Italian gastronomy in San Pedro de Atacama at REDSTONS, where every pizza is a masterpiece.
ChelaCabur
65.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Pedro de Atacama at ChelaCabur, a lively bar with an extensive beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere.
RestoBar Nativo
65.6 km
Experience the authentic flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at RestoBar Nativo, where local cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Perrock
65.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Perrock, a gastropub offering innovative dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Botilleria Nueva Atacama
65.9 km
Discover the best of Chilean wines and spirits at Botilleria Nueva Atacama in the enchanting San Pedro de Atacama.
