Moon Valley Adventure: Explore the Atacama Desert
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
A half-day afternoon tour to the Moon Valley from San Pedro de Atacama offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most impressive landscapes on the planet.
The tour is perfect for those who wish to explore the beauty and mysteries of the Valley of the Moon, combining adventure and breathtaking scenery.
The tour includes a visit to the fascinating salt caves and salt mines, where your guide will explain the geological history and natural processes that have shaped this unique environment.
One of the highlights of the tour is the Mirador de Kari (Coyote's Stone), which offers spectacular panoramic views of the valley and the Andes on the horizon. This is the perfect place to take unforgettable photographs.
The tour concludes with a sunset observation over the Valley of the Moon. Watching the golden light of the setting sun transform the landscape into a palette of warm colors is a magical and moving experience.
Available options
Excursion to the Valley of the Moon
Pickup included
What's included
bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
Pick up at your accommodation
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up from the hotel between 14.30 and 15.10 hrs.
After picking up all the travelers from the hotels, we will drive to the first attraction... in a tour that will have a duration of 5hs.
2
We left San Pedro de Atacama to visit the Cordillera de la Sal, and the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), named after the Jesuit priest Gustavo Le Paige
by the Jesuit priest Gustavo Le Paige, who traveled this area in his archaeological explorations before the development of
before the development of tourism. When visiting the dunes and valleys, it is possible to observe the “lunar” characteristics that led to the priestly
The “lunar” characteristics that led the priest to name it this way. Visit the Three Marias, the Great Dune and the Amphitheater, the main
the Amphitheater, the main attractions of the Valley of the Moon.
At the end of the tour, we will return to San Pedro de Atacama to drop off all passengers at their respective hotels.
The return will be approximately at 19.30 hrs. ending at the Municipal parking lot located 1 1/2 block from the Plaza.
What's not included
Food or Drinks
Valle de la Luna
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We need your complete information to make the reservation: Passport - Date of Birth - Hotel where you will be staying, name and address.
IMPORTANT FOR ARGENTINEANS OR ARGENTINEAN PAYMENT METHODS! The tour price, in pesos, does NOT include taxes! So in your means of payment, you will be charged extra. TripAdvisor/viator/Associates are foreign websites. They bill in US dollars. As any purchase in foreign currency.
The included pick-up service does not operate to or from accommodations located outside the urban radius of San Pedro de Atacama, accommodations located in ayllus near San Pedro de Atacama (Quitor, Yaye, Checar, Sequitor, Solor and Coyo) or accommodations in the town of Toconao.
Experience has shown that minors (5 to 8 years old) have a hard time with “Puna” or “Altitude Sickness.”
Important notes
As soon as you make your reservation, please contact us via whatsapp to coordinate schedules, pick up point, etc.
We need your complete information: Passport, date of birth and lodging where you will be staying. INDISPENSABLE (If you are with minors, we need passport photos of the minor).
If your reservation is last minute, pick up times and available languages may vary. Subject to availability.
About San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is a charming town in northern Chile, known as the gateway to the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. This unique destination offers stunning landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Valle de la Luna
Valle de la Luna is a surreal lunar-like landscape with sand dunes, rock formations, and salt formations. It's a must-visit for its stunning views and unique geological features.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Laguna Cejar
Laguna Cejar is a unique saltwater lagoon where you can float effortlessly due to its high salt content. It's a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Geysers del Tatio
Geysers del Tatio is a geothermal field with boiling hot springs and geysers. It's one of the highest geyser fields in the world and offers a unique experience.
Nature
Full-day tour
Moderate (approximately $50-$70 for a guided tour)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cazuela
A traditional Chilean stew made with meat, potatoes, corn, and pumpkin. It's a hearty and comforting dish perfect for the cool evenings in the desert.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian versions are available
Empanadas de Pino
A popular Chilean snack, these empanadas are filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and a hard-boiled egg.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian and vegan options are available
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Dune buggy rides
Hiking
Mountain biking
Hot springs
Yoga retreats
Meditation
Visit to the Atacama Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season)
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring the desert, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures during the day. Nights can be quite cold.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, Quechua (indigenous language)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (UTC-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Pedro de Atacama is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- El Loa Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama
By bus
San Pedro de Atacama Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses connect San Pedro de Atacama to nearby attractions like the Valle de la Luna and Laguna Cejar. They are affordable but not very frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Cascadas
Day trips
Puritama Hot Springs
20 km (12 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Half-day to full-day
Puritama Hot Springs offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a stunning desert setting. The natural hot springs are surrounded by beautiful rock formations and lush vegetation.
Rainbow Valley (Valle del Arcoiris)
100 km (62 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Full-day
Rainbow Valley is known for its colorful rock formations and stunning landscapes. It's a popular spot for hiking, photography, and exploring the unique geological features of the Atacama Desert.
Festivals
Atacama Desert Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Valle de la Luna at sunset for the best views and photography opportunities
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong desert sun
- Dress in layers to accommodate the significant temperature variations between day and night
- Respect the environment and follow the principles of responsible tourism
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
