Small-Group Tour Altiplanic Lagoons Red Stones & Flamingo Reserve
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this tour, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the highlights more intimately, sharing your day with other travelers but avoiding big groups: Take in the views of the beautiful landscape paired against the Altiplanic Lagoons, with waters of an intense blue fed by underground rivers of thew. Additionally, visit Talar Salt Flats, known as Piedras Rojas and admire the intense colors of the rocks! A trip you can't miss!
Available options
Small-Group Tour
Small-Group share service tour: This tour includes a professional guide for a group of maximum 15 people.<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Breakfast<br/>Mini Van<br/>Entrance fee included<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Professional Bilingual Driver-Guide Assistance (english & spanish)
Lunch
Breakfast
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel Pick-up (drop-off is at downtown area)
Detailed itinerary
1
After a morning pick-up at your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, you will start your adventure into amazing and arid landscapes.
2
First, get ready to know this particular town. It enchants by its simplicity, the calmness of its people, its climate, the handicrafts and the architecture, where earthy and white colors abound. It is an ancient town built with volcanic rock and an oasis, its freshwater allows the growing of all kinds of fruits and vegetables.
3
Stop 3
Next up, you will head to Los Flamencos National Reserve to visit the marginal zone of the Atacama Salt Flats. You will reach Chaxa Lagoon, located in the northern sector of the Atacama Salt Flat, where you will get to see flamingos in the wild and migratory birds. Observe the salt crusts on the surface of the Salar, generated by the evaporation of saline groundwater. You will have some free time for pictures.
4
Then, get to know the small altiplanic village of Socaire with its iconic church and its agriculture. It is located at 3,500 masl and is the main natural balcony of the Atacama Salt Flats. Socaire was formerly important for its gold mines and currently it is characterized by its typical cuisine. Here, you will have some minutes to admire its church (historical heritage).
5
Finally, the moment you were waiting for; you will arrive at Miscanti and Meñiques Altiplanic Lagoons. Be amazed by its intense blue waters fed by underground rivers and enjoy the surrounding landscape of volcanoes and mountains. The lagoons are located at 4,300 masl and surrounded by the Andes Mountain Range and the Meñiques Volcano. Keep your eyes wide open; here, you may see flamingos and other birds (species such as Tagua Cornuda, Parinas Chicas, the Caití, Baird's Sandpiper, Puna Plover, Pato Juarjual and the Guallata).
6
To further add to your experience, start a 1-hour hike along the foothills of the southern Andes, towards Talar Salt Flat, also known as Piedras Rojas, a place where the rocks are tinted by natural oxidation and weathering. A perfect spot for pictures!
7
At the end of the trip, you will be driven back to San Pedro de Atacama. **Notes: Schedules and the order of the visited attractions are estimated and may change due to the guide's evaluation.
What's not included
Gratuities
Entrance Fee
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
9 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.2
10 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
IMPORTANT: Passport name, number, nationality and date of birth are required at time of booking for all participants
Please advise specific dietary requirements, restrictions or allergies at the time of booking. You may use the “Special Requirements” box for that matter
Please bring: Closed or trekking shoes, water, comfortable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hat, fleece in summer and jacket in winter.
You may have to complete the risk acceptance form before starting the trip
Minimum age: 12 years old. Maximum age: 70 years old
Ending time: 17:30 approximately (winter)
IMPORTANT: this excursion is not allowed for pregnant women
Please keep in mind that we will reach a height of 4500 m.a.s.l. so some people may suffer from altitude sickness
People with hypertension, edema or embolism (only with medical authorization)
Important notes
For customers, please contact us in this number: +54 9 11 5720 9905
Please inform your accommodation and contact information at least 1 or 2 days before the tour date, so the local can contact you to reconfirm the booking.
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
