Rainbow Valley Tour from San Pedro de Atacama
Active
5h - 6h
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 travel to the west of San Pedro de Atacama to meet the Cordillera de Domeyko, a spectacular formation that coexists in parallel to Los Andes. The Rainbow Valley tour is a tour that invites you to discover incredible geological formations, compositions of different colors and peculiarities. We will start with a good breakfast in the heart of the Rainbow Valley, to then make a circuit of approximately 1 hr, walking through this incredible place, and then visit Yerbas Buenas, a small local town that practices agriculture and llamas grazing, and in whose area there is a concentration of petroglyphs and pictographs dating back hundreds of years, thus internalizing the history and archeology that underlies these territories. For lovers of history and archeology this is the ideal tour
After our incredible experience in between the geographic and cultural history of Atacama, we will return our trip back to San Pedro de Atacama. The drop off will be at the city centre.
Available options
Rainbow Valley Tour from San Pedro de Atacama
Pickup included
What's included
Pan, charcutería, mermeladas, café, te, queques, frutas.
Local guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan or bus
Drop off is at the city centre
Hotel pickup
Detailed itinerary
1
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.
2
We will travel to the west of San Pedro de Atacama to meet the Cordillera de Domeyko, a spectacular formation that coexists in parallel to Los Andes. First we will visit the sector of Yerbas Buenas, of great historical relevance for its rock art, since it has one of the most important groups of petroglyphs in the region. The tour will transport us to the time of the indigenous caravans, adding historical and cultural value to the experience.
3
Stop 3
Then, and crossing Matancilla, a sector rich in flora and fauna, we will find the Valley of the Rainbow, named for the variety of tonalities that can be seen in the surrounding hills: earth, reddish, brown, green, white and yellow colors , which combined with the white salts and the blue sky, make up a unique place.Then we will visit the viewpoint where we will contemplate the Rainbow Canyon where we will enjoy the landscapes that the desert gives to us, includying the cultural and geographic history behind of these places
4
After our incredible experience in between the geographic and cultural history of Atacama, 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 (meeting point or Hotels from the list)
What's not included
Rainbow Valley
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
18 reviews
5★
12
4★
5
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes including trekking pants, 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
Meals or drinks not specified aren't included
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!
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.
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
