4-Day Atacama Highlights - Geysers, Lagoons and Valleys

Calama , Chile

4-Day Atacama Highlights - Geysers, Lagoons and Valleys

Active

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Venture into the Atacama Desert, one of the most hostile places in the world on a 4-day tour and skip the hassle of dealing with logistics as we take care of your Calama airport round-trip transportation.
Tour the place where the Earth exhales its millenary breath, on the geothermal field of the Tatio Geysers, the highest in the world. In a place where the geysers and thermal waters coexist with the lowest temperatures.
Found within the Atacama Salt Flats is the Cejar Lagoon. This body of water is a saltwater swimming pool where you can float until your troubles fade away. Visit the Salar Eyes, which are two freshwater round-shaped lagoons in the middle of one of the world’s driest deserts and the impressive Tebinquinche Lagoon.
Find yourself astonished as you take in the views of the variety of shades on the surrounding hills of Rainbow Valley: earth, red, brown, green, white and yellow colors, which combined with the white salts and the blue sky, make up a unique place.

Available options

Inn Accommodation

Inn Accommodation: This tour includes 3 nights in an Inn category hotel

Superior Accommodation

Superior Accommodation: This tour includes 3 nights in an Superior category hotel

Comfort Accommodation

Comfort Accommodation: This tour includes 3 nights in an Comfort category hotel

What's included

Accommodation for 3 nights in San Pedro de Atacama

Professional Bilingual Driver-Guide Assistance (English and Spanish)

Tours mentioned in the itinerary (shared service)

Breakfast

Round-trip transfer to and from Calama Airport (shared service)

Hotel Pick-Up (Drop-off will be at downtown area or near your hotel, to be confirmed)

What's not included

International and/or Domestic Flights

Optional Tours & Tips & Unmentioned Food and Drink

Entrance Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please advise any specific dietary requirements, restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. You may use the “Special Requirements” box for that matter.

IMPORTANT: Passport name, number, nationality and date of birth are required at time of booking for all participants

Hotel accommodation categories are based on service and comfort standards, not star ratings

Recommendation: Take loose change to use the bathroom facilities in the small towns we visit along the way

You will have to complete the risk acceptance form before starting some tours

IMPORTANT: excursions are not allowed for pregnant women

People with Hypertension, Edema, Embolism or any serious medical conditions must have medical authorization Older adults should consult a doctor before going on this trip

Please keep in mind that we will reach a height of 4500 m.a.s.l. so some people may suffer from altitude sickness

Meeting point

We will schedule your airport transfer according to your flight arrival and departure time. Please provide your arrival/ departure time and flight information.

About Calama

Calama is a bustling city in northern Chile, known as the gateway to the Atacama Desert and the El Tatio geysers. It serves as a hub for travelers exploring the region's stunning natural landscapes and rich mining history. The city's arid climate and unique geographical features make it a fascinating destination for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

El Tatio Geysers

El Tatio is one of the highest geothermal fields in the world, located at an altitude of 4,300 meters (14,110 feet). It features boiling geysers, hot springs, and steam vents, making it a unique and otherworldly landscape.

Nature Half day to full day CLP 10,000 - 20,000 (USD 12-24) for guided tours

Chuquicamata Mine

One of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world, Chuquicamata has been in operation since the early 20th century. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the mining process and the history of the site.

Historical Half day CLP 15,000 - 25,000 (USD 18-30) for guided tours

Rainbow Valley (Valle de la Luna)

Rainbow Valley is a stunning geological formation featuring colorful rock formations, sand dunes, and caves. The valley gets its name from the vibrant colors of the rocks, which are caused by the presence of various minerals.

Nature Full day CLP 10,000 - 20,000 (USD 12-24) for guided tours

Museo del Desierto de Atacama

This museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the Atacama Desert. Exhibits include fossils, minerals, and artifacts from the region's indigenous cultures.

Museum 1-2 hours CLP 3,000 - 5,000 (USD 3.60-6)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pastel de Choclo

A traditional Chilean dish made with a mixture of ground corn, beef, chicken, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, baked in a pie-like form.

Main Course Contains meat and dairy

Empanadas de Pino

A popular Chilean snack made with a pastry shell filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs.

Snack Contains meat and dairy

Cazuela

A hearty Chilean stew made with beef, chicken, pumpkin, potatoes, and corn, served with rice and avocado.

Main Course Contains meat and dairy

Choripan

A simple but delicious Chilean street food made with grilled chorizo sausage served in a bread roll, often topped with chimichurri sauce.

Snack Contains meat and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Sandboarding ATV tours Desert trekking Visiting hot springs Sunbathing Reading and enjoying the scenery Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

April to October (fall and spring)

This period offers mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors. The weather is generally stable, and the crowds are manageable.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Limited

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

CLT (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4) or CLST (Chile Summer Time, GMT-3) depending on the time of year

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Calama is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

El Loa Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By train

Calama Station

By bus

Terminal de Buses Calama

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus system is affordable and covers most areas of Calama. Buses are frequent and reliable, but they can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Easy Taxi, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro (City Center) Barrio Industrial (Industrial District) Barrio Residencial (Residential District)

Day trips

San Pedro de Atacama

200 km (124 miles) • Full day

San Pedro de Atacama is a charming town known for its adobe architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning desert landscapes. It's a popular destination for travelers exploring the Atacama Desert.

Laguna Cejar

180 km (112 miles) • Full day

Laguna Cejar is a unique saltwater lagoon known for its high salinity, which makes it easy to float effortlessly on the water's surface. The lagoon is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.

Toconao

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Toconao is a small village known for its traditional Atacameño culture and stunning desert landscapes. The village is home to a variety of artisan workshops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Festivals

Festival de la Minería • June Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen • July Carnaval de Calama • February or March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the El Tatio geysers early in the morning to see them at their most active.
Explore the Chuquicamata mine for a unique insight into the region's mining history.
Hike or take a guided tour to the Rainbow Valley for a stunning and otherworldly experience.
Sample local cuisine at traditional restaurants and markets for an authentic taste of Calama.
Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.