Route of the Salt Flats
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Route of the Salt Flats

Active
(8 reviews)
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the magic of the Chilean highlands with our exclusive Salt Flats Route. It begins at dawn at the Licancabur viewpoint, where you will see how the sun illuminates the volcano, creating a natural spectacle. Enjoy a delicious breakfast outdoors while marveling at the landscape.

Next, explore the Salar de Quisquiro, a surreal place with unique salt formations and panoramic views. Walk through the salt flat, watch flamingos and feel the peace of the remote environment.

Continue to Las Vegas de Quepiaco, a green oasis in the middle of the desert, where you can explore, take photographs and relax.

The last stop is at the Monjes de la Pacana, impressive rock formations that rise majestically against the sky. Walk around these stone towers, capture the essence of the desert in your photographs and learn about the history of the place.

Book your experience today and discover the beauty and magic of San Pedro de Atacama.

Available options

Route of the Salt Flats

What's included

Lunch
Breakfast
Shared transportation (max 12)

Detailed itinerary

1

At the Licancabur viewpoint, travelers will enjoy a truly heavenly experience. Upon arrival, they will be greeted by the majesty of the Licancabur volcano, which stands imposingly before them. Here are highlights of what you'll see and do:

Outdoor Breakfast: A delicious breakfast will be offered that includes fresh fruits, local breads, cheeses and natural juices. While enjoying this meal, travelers will feel their senses rise alongside the sun.

Connection with Nature: The calm and serene environment will allow travelers to connect deeply with nature, enjoying the peace that the Chilean highlands offers.

Reflection and Meditation: This is an ideal time for introspection. Many travelers take the opportunity to meditate or simply enjoy the silence, letting the beauty of the landscape inspire them.

2

In Las Vegas de Quepiaco, travelers will immerse themselves in a green and vibrant landscape in the middle of the desert. Here are highlights of what you'll see and do:

Lush Vegetation: Travelers will be able to explore oases of vegetation that contrast with the arid desert environment, creating an impressive landscape.

Walks and Explorations: There will be time to take short walks and explore the surroundings, enjoying the local flora and the fresh air of Las Vegas.

Landscape Photography: This place offers unique opportunities to capture the beauty of the contrast between the vegetation and the desert, ideal for photography lovers.

Relaxation and Connection: The tranquil environment allows travelers to relax and connect with nature, providing a respite from their day.

3

In the Salar de Quisquiro, travelers will enjoy a dazzling and unique landscape. Here are highlights of what you'll see and do:

Geological Formations: Travelers will be able to admire the impressive salt formations that create a surreal environment, ideal for impressive photographs.

Wildlife Observation: You will have the opportunity to spot flamingos and other native birds that live in the region, adding a special touch to the experience.

Walk through the Salt Flats: Time will be offered to walk through the vast expanse of the salt flat, feeling the texture of the salt under your feet and enjoying the tranquility of the place.

Connection with Nature: The remote and serene environment allows travelers to disconnect and enjoy the peace that the Chilean highlands offers.

4
Stop 4

At Monjes de la Pacana, travelers will witness impressive rock formations that seem to emerge from the desert. Here are highlights of what you'll see and do:

Unique Rock Formations: Travelers will be able to observe the iconic stone towers, which rise majestically against the sky, creating an impressive natural spectacle.

Hiking in the Area: There will be the opportunity to walk around these formations, exploring the terrain and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Photography and Contemplation: This is a perfect place to capture the essence of the Chilean desert, ideal for photographers and those looking for moments of reflection.

Cultural Connection: The Pacana Monks also have cultural significance, giving travelers an opportunity to learn about the history and geography of the place.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5
8 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Warm clothing, comfortable shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and 1.5 liters of still water per person.
Passengers are advised not to consume alcohol or red meat the night before the tour.

Meeting point

Go to the intersection of Caracoles Street and Tocopilla Street and wait for the vehicle with the logo that says Layana Travel

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

Adults
Age 18-80
1
Childs
Age 10-17
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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