High in the Altiplano, the Atacama Desert is an otherworldly landscape ripe for exploration. From Tierra Atacama, perched on the Andean Plateau above San Pedro, vast salt flats, vivid lagoons and volcanic peaks unfold in breathtaking contrast.
Though among the driest places on earth, the desert teems with life – flamingo-filled lakes, mineral pools and geysers punctuate the scene, while ancient petroglyphs and ever-shifting colors reveal the extraordinary beauty and mystery of Chile’s high desert.
The Seasons of Atacama
Chile’s Atacama Desert offers a climate of stark contrasts. Days are warm to hot and sunny, yet as night falls, the temperature drops significantly, providing cool relief. Rainfall is exceptionally rare, making the region one of Earth’s driest spots.
Season Average daytime temp Average overnight temp Summer (Dec-Feb)
Must-Do Excursions
Top 5 signature/bespoke excursions for nature lovers
1. Contemplate the epic columns of steam at the Tatio Geysers
2. Marvel at Rainbow Valley’s colourful cliffs and petroglyphs of ancient traders.
3. Encounter strange and beautiful rock formations at The Valley of the Moon
4. Spot three species of flamingo at the wildlife-rich Salar de Atacama
5. Discover the Atacameñan view of the cosmos on a stargazing excursion
Top 5 signature/bespoke excursions for active adventurers
1. Hike among towering cardón cacti at Guatin Gatchi Valley
2. Climb to the 5,600m summit of an extinct volcano on the Volcano Ascent
3. Saddle up to experience unforgettable desert landscapes on horseback
4. Navigate rocky gorges and hidden groves on the Quebrada del Diablo Ride
5. Hike to the Cornisas in the otherworldly Mars Valley
Keep an eye out for this badge, which indicates a truly rare and exclusive experience.
Getting there
Tierra Atacama is situated on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama, a small village in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. Regular two-hour flights operate between Santiago and Calama and the hotel offers complimentary road transfers from Calama Airport to the hotel, taking around one hour.
What to bring
The easygoing atmosphere at Tierra Atacama encourages comfortable casual attire. We recommend packing:
• Solid walking or hiking shoes
• Activewear for outdoor excursions
• Casual clothing and footwear
• Warm layers Hat, sunglasses and swimwear
Signature Excursions
» Desert Discoveries
» Trekking Expeditions
» Bike Riding
» Horseback Riding
Bespoke Excursions
Private Touring
Uma Spa
Choose your pace
At Tierra Atacama, guided excursions range from a leisurely walk, scenic tour or gentle horseback or e-bike rides through to a challenging hike and bucket-list volcano climb and plenty in between.
A personalized excursion plan is created for guests on arrival taking into consideration your personal interests and physical activity level so that you can explore the driest desert in the world in your own way.
Difficulty Key
Easy Appropriate for all ages and abilities.
Medium-Easy Requires a basic level of physical fitness.
Medium Requires some degree of physical fitness and experience.
Medium-Difficult Requires a good level of physical fitness and experience.
Difficult Only for people who are very fit, with experience in wilderness areas.
Restricted Not appropriate for anyone whose health may be impacted by high altitude. Some excursions in this category also require a minimum number of days of acclimitization prior to participation.
Private Touring
Many travellers value the option of private touring, ensuring an exclusive encounter with family and friends. All signature and bespoke experiences may be undertaken on a private basis at additional cost. Bookings are subject to availability and required in advance.
Duration
Half Day
Full Day
Rate for 1-8 guests
US$500
US$800
Please note
• All our excursions are subject to weather conditions and availability.
• Signature excursions are led by expert guides on a shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times.
• During your stay, our generous all inclusive program means you can choose two half day or one full day excursion per day, except on the day of your departure.
• Half day excursions take place in the morning and/or afternoon, returning to the hotel for lunch.
• Full day excursions begin in the morning with lunch enjoyed enroute. This may be in the form of a box lunch, a buffet table or lunch at a local restaurant, depending on the excursion. Return to the hotel is usually by 5pm.
How to book
Please call +562 6469 0518 from 9am-5pm (PST) daily or email the Reservations team.
Signature Excursions
Experience Atacama's must-see sights on the hotel's signature excursions. These guided excursions are included in the rate and are provided on an intimate shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times.
Desert Discoveries
Combining travel by road and shorter, easy-paced walks around scenic destinations – these excursions are perfect for exploring special interests such as photography, birdwatching or astronomy.
The Salar de Atacama
This captivating excursion features vivid colors and an introduction to the vast expanse of the highland desert. Visit the unique stone village of Toconao, then the Los Flamencos National Reserve at Chaxa Lagoon in the Salar de Atacama, which is home to three species of flamingo and the perfect location to take in sweeping views across the desert landscape.
Tatio Geysers ��
Explore the Tatio Geysers, one of the world’s highest geothermal fields with more than 80 active geysers and steaming vents. Enjoy breakfast in the wetlands, observing Andean wildlife such as flamingos and vicuñas, before visiting the picturesque highland village of Machuca, rich in local tradition.
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy ⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Rate Included Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪ Restricted (includes acclimatization)
Cejar Lagoon Float
Heading out later in the day to witness the shifting colours of the afternoon light over the desert, journey by vehicle to the edge of the Atacama Salt Flat to enjoy a refreshing float in the crystal-clear waters of the astonishing Cejar Lagoon. The lagoon is surrounded by a thick salt crust that glistens brightly in the sunlight.
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy ⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Moon Valley
Journey southwest of San Pedro de Atacama to the Cordillera de la Sal and explore the surreal expanse of the Valley of the Moon. Walk among otherworldly rock formations shaped by wind, water, and extreme desert conditions and experience the vastness of the Atacama’s dramatic landscape.
Rainbow Valley
Witness the Rainbow Valley’s namesake mineralrich formations, where vivid bands of red, green, yellow and white create a natural palette shaped by iron, clay and other deposits. Continue to Hierbas Buenas, home to intricate pre-Columbian petroglyphs depicting animals and ancient desert trade routes.
Piedras Rojas Lagoon ��
Experience the surreal beauty of Piedras Rojas Lagoon, where vibrant red rocks contrast with tranquil turquoise waters and colour-shifting mountain ranges on the horizon. Take a walk to witness the vivid interplay of icy water, salt deposits and red stone, taking in the vastness of this extraordinary landscape. Due to the high altitude, this activity can be physically demanding and is not recommended for those sensitive to altitude.
Stargazing
The skies in the Atacama desert are amongst the clearest in the world and there are many ways to view the canopy of stars and the Milky Way as it moves through the heavens. View astronomical phenomena through a professional telescope, spot classical constellations with the naked eye, and learn about the Atacameñan view of the cosmos.
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy ⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Rate Included Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪ Restricted
Rate Included
Duration 1.5 hours
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Trekking Expeditions
There’s so much to explore and discover throughout the Atacama Desert. From leisurely walks or challenging treks, there is something for everyone to enjoy, all accompanied by experienced guides.
Purilactis Valley
Follow crystalline rivers and dramatic rock formations on this trek through the Purilactis Gorge. Discover some of the region’s oldest petroglyphs at Yerbas Buenas, believed to have been carved by ancient traders. The trail continues through arid mountain terrain and ends at the Rainbow Valley, where multicoloured rock walls create a striking finale.
Quebrada del Diablo
Set out early to explore the Cordillera de la Sal, hiking through Devil’s Canyon’s maze of dry riverbeds, rocky gorges and hidden groves. Follow an ancient caravan route marked with petroglyphs to a lookout offering sweeping views of San Pedro’s oasis and distant volcanoes.
Guatin Gatchi Valley
Venture into the hidden oasis of Guatin Valley, hiking among towering cacti, rocky trails and cascading waterfalls. Discover the confluence of the warm Puritama and cold Purifica rivers, where life flourishes amid the stark Atacama landscape and sweeping valley views.
Cornisas
Set out on an exhilarating journey through the Atacama’s striking desert landscapes. Follow an ancient road toward Calama, encountering sculpted, otherworldly terrain and awe-inspiring views of towering volcanoes. Climb a small dune along the rim of Death Valley, where a 360-degree panorama reveals oases, salt flats, and rugged peaks.
Rate
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Medium-Difficult
Rate Included
Duration Half Day
Difficulty
Medium-Easy
Bike Riding
From Machuca to Río Grande
Begin in the high Andean village of Machuca (4,000m) and follow the Peñaliri River through striking Altiplano scenery. Spot llamas and native birdlife, pause for lunch in the abandoned hamlet of Peñaliri, and continue past ancient terraces and cacti to reach Río Grande, a traditional farming village. Rate
Enjoy an easy ride to visit local communities or head out for a more challenging journey to explore the region's high-altitude terrain.
Horseback Riding
Bike Vallecito
Embark on a 14-mile cycling adventure from a lush oasis across the desert plains to the striking Cordillera de la Sal. Ride through spectacular valleys, vast sand dunes and historic salt mines as the landscape transforms from verdant to otherworldly, offering an experience that feels almost extraterrestrial. Rate
Quebrada del Diablo Ride
Set out early to explore the heart of the Cordillera de la Sal by bike, winding through Devil’s Canyon and a maze of dry riverbeds, rocky gorges and hidden groves. Follow an ancient caravan route to a lookout with sweeping views of San Pedro’s oasis and distant volcanoes.
Transfers to and from Devil’s Canyon are provided by vehicle.
Enjoy a unique perspective of the Atacama and observations that only an adventure on horseback can offer.
Atacama on Horseback
Departing from the hotel, horseback rides can be tailored to guests riding ability and desired experience, ranging from a one-hour gentle walk around the village or up to five hours in duration, heading towards the Salt Mountains nearby. The rides are operated by experienced local guides and the saddles are Chilean, similar to the US western saddles.
Rate
Rate
Bespoke Excursions
Bespoke excursion rates valid November 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026. All rates quoted in US Dollars; additional charges and taxes not included.
To make a stay truly unforgettable, Tierra Atacama offers a menu of bespoke excursions designed to suit every interest, from hot air balloon flights to volcano climbs.
Volcano Ascent ��
Embark on an unforgettable ascent of the extinct Cerro Toco volcano, starting at 5,000m (16,400ft). Conquer dusty trails amid dramatic hills, culminating at 5,600m (18,700ft) with breathtaking summit views of Salar de Atacama Laguna Blanca over the border in Bolivia. Although not technically difficult, this high-altitude hike is physically demanding. Guests must be over 18 and have spent at least five nights acclimatizing before departure. For safety reasons, participation is limited to those with appropriate fitness and readiness.
High Altitude Lagoons ��
Embark on a full-day private journey to the Andean Altiplano, exploring Piedras Rojas, where red volcanic rock meets turquoise waters and white salt flats. Continue to the Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons, refuges for Andean wildlife, before enjoying lunch in Socaire Village and returning to the hotel by late afternoon. Due to the high altitude, this activity can be physically demanding and is not recommended for those sensitive to altitude.
Puritama Thermal Pools
Relax in the Puritama Hot Springs, a series of eight natural pools nestled in a canyon 30 kilometers from San Pedro. Soak in thermal waters between 28°C and 31°C, rich in revitalizing minerals like calcium, magnesium and boron, surrounded by native vegetation and serene desert views.
How to book
Please call +562 6469 0518 from 9am-5pm (PST) daily or email the Reservations team.
Rate
US$800 for 1-8 guests
Duration Full Day
Difficulty Difficult
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪ Restricted
Rate
US$800 1-8 guests
Duration Full Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪ Restricted
Rate
US$500 1-8 guests
Duration Half Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Sunrise Balloon Flight
Lift off at dawn for a breathtaking balloon flight over the Atacama Desert. Watch the sun rise behind the Licancabur Volcano, casting golden light across the desert’s vast expanse - a serene, unforgettable perspective of this extraordinary landscape. Light breakfast and transfers included.
Atacama in Focus
Capture the best of the Atacama on a tailor-made photography tour led by a professional photographer. Visit the region’s most iconic landscapes while creating lasting memories through personalized photo, video and drone sessions, with optional add-ons such as llamas, horseback riding, or cycling for unique shots.
Andean Heritage at Sunset
Travel to a historic indigenous estate in the Andean foothills to learn about ancient Atacameñan traditions and explore ancestral archaeological sites. Conclude the experience with sunset views and a tasting of authentic Andean flavours, prepared by local hosts who preserve these time-honoured customs.
Rate
US$260 per person (shared flight)
US$2,100 for 1-6 guests (private flight)
Duration 5 hours (1 hour 45 minutes of flight time)
Difficulty Easy
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Rate
US$800 for 1-8 guests
Duration Full Day
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Rate
US$500 1-8 guests
Duration 3-4 hours
Difficulty Easy
⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪
Uma Spa
Named for the Aymara word for water, Uma Spa is elemental in both name and nature. Here, every detail is inspired by the landscape - from tranquil pools to open-air views of Licancabur Volcano –creating a serene refuge for body and spirit after a day of discovery.
Spa Treatments
Uma Spa’s treatments draw inspiration from the desert’s healing spirit, blending natural botanicals with ancestral wellness traditions. Infused with locally sourced ingredients – volcanic mud, lithium-rich salts and desert herbs – each ritual restores deep balance, clarity and calm.
Spa Facilities
A sanctuary of calm, Uma Spa invites pure relaxation across its tranquil spaces – three treatment rooms, serene lounge, heated pool with water jets, steam room, sauna, and outdoor infinity pool with jacuzzi, complemented by daily yoga and an intimate gym.
How to book Reservations are recommended in advance. Additional charges apply. View a printable menu, email or call the Reservations team on +562 6469 0518
Terms & Conditions
Published cancellation fees apply for private signature and bespoke excursions booked at Tierra Atacama. For cancellations with less than 5 hours notice, the full charge of the excursion may apply. Some rates are subject to minimum numbers set by external operators and are subject to change. Touring options, inclusions and times are subject to change without notice. Some experiences are subject to weather conditions.
