Atacama Desert, Chile
World's driest desert offering accommodation from CLP$25,000 budget hostels in San Pedro to CLP$800,000+ all-inclusive luxury lodges with private astronomers, salt flat tours, and otherworldly landscape experiences in Earth's most Mars-like environment
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Budget Level
$$-$$$$
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Best Months
April, May, June
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Walkability
4/5
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Safety Score
4.5/5
Top Attractions in Atacama Desert
Salar de Uyuni Tours
Multi-day salt flat expeditions across the border
Valle de la Luna
Moon Valley with surreal rock formations
El Tatio Geysers
High-altitude geothermal field at sunrise
Atacama Desert Neighborhoods
San Pedro de Atacama
Tourist base town with most accommodation options
Calama
Mining town with airport and basic hotels
Desert Lodges
Remote luxury properties in pristine locations
Salt Flat Camps
Basic camping for multi-day salt flat tours
Essential Atacama Desert Travel Information
Getting Around
✓ Tour Vehicles
✓ Rental Car (4WD)
✓ Organized Tours
✓ Bus to Calama
Perfect For
✓ Stargazer
✓ Desert Explorer
✓ Photographer
✓ Luxury Traveler
✓ Adventure Seeker
Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
Start Planning Your Atacama Desert Adventure
Explore our comprehensive guides and insider tips to make the most of your visit