Altiplanic Lagoons & Piedras Rojas Tour from San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama , Chile

Altiplanic Lagoons & Piedras Rojas Tour from San Pedro de Atacama

Active

(87 reviews)

10h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We will begin this excursion having breakfast in the Tambillo forest, a particular forest of a tree called Tamarugo that grows in the middle of the desert. Then we will visit the Chaxa lagoon, located in the Salar de Atacama, a lagoon of spectacular beauty that is divided into several mirrors of water, where a large number of flamingos live. Then we will go through the towns of Toconao and Socaire, towns built with stone of volcanic origin. for later arrive at Los Flamencos National Reserve, where we will visit the altiplanic lagoons, two lagoons over 4,000 meters high at the foot of two large volcanoes, and finally the Salar de Aguas Calientes, a salt flat with beautiful contrasts of turquoise and calypso colors, and next to the Piedras Rojas viewpoint, a stone platform that owes its name to its reddish color product of iron oxidation.

Available options

Altiplanic Lagoons & Piedras Rojas Tour from San Pedro de Atacama

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by air-conditioned minivan or bus

Lunch

Drop-off is at the city centre

Live tour commentary provided in English & Spanish

Hotel pickup

Detailed itinerary

Your day trip from San Pedro de Atacama begins with hotel pickup starting at 08:00 a.m. Remember that the Hotel pick up and drop off is included only on Hotels located nearby San Pedro de Atacama urban zone. If your Hotel is located on Ayllus far away from the downtown, please let us know to arrange a meeting point for being picked up.

Stop 2

Then we visit the Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile, where the flamingos national reserve is located. We will visit the Chaxa lagoon to observe the types of flamingos, as well as other species that inhabit the lagoons of the to Salt.

Stop 3

Our first stop will be after approximately 1 hour of trip in the high plateau Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons located at 4200 a.s.l. In these lagoons you can appreciate the fauna of the place. Amazing landscapes from the lagoons in company of the mountains, millennial history behind this incredible place.

Then we go to Piedras Rojas where we visit Salar de Aguas Calientes and Salar de Talar, where you can see the rock formations reddish colors. Enjoy the incredible landscapes from the Atacama Salt Flat, especially with the colors that the nature offers to us.

After our incredible experience in the Atacama Salt Flat, we will return our trip back to San Pedro de Atacama. The drop off will be at the same point as where you were picked up.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance fees to Altiplanic Lagoons

Altiplanic Lagoons

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

56 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes including trekking pants and shoes, and a windbreaker or warm jacket

It is recommended that you bring water, sunblock and sunglasses

Note: Please bring cash to pay for the entrance fees and any additional expenses

Note: The altiplano lagoons lie at more than 13,500 feet in elevation, which may cause mild altitude sickness for some; it is recommended that you drink hot tea or water prior to the tour and carry any necessary medication. Infants are allowed to visit the lagoons but be aware of the altitude before going, the responsability is under the parents in case of any inconvenient.

Remember that the Hotel pick up and drop off is included only on Hotels located nearby San Pedro de Atacama urban zone. If your Hotel is located on Ayllus far away from the downtown, please let us know to arrange a meeting point for being picked up. Please reconfirm the pick up information (time and location) 1 day before the departure!

Children over 8 years old are allowed

Important notes

Note: Remember that the Hotel pick up and drop off is included only on Hotels located nearby San Pedro de Atacama urban zone. If your Hotel is located on Ayllus far away from the downtown, please contact us as soon as you booked the tour.

Times are subject to change due to local weather conditions.

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