Atacama Salt Flats Tour

Experience the Licancabur Volcano, Aguas Calientes salt flats, and Quisquiro salt flats as we venture through the mesmerizing Atacama Desert, exploring the iconic landscapes of the Chilean Altiplano.

Route Through the Salt Flats

Your journey begins with a pick-up from your San Pedro de Atacama hotel at the appointed time. We will set off towards the Andes Mountains, traversing the sweeping expanses of the Chilean Altiplano.

Over the course of 150 kilometers by bus, you can enjoy a light breakfast on board while taking in the stunning local flora and fauna until we arrive at the Licancabur Volcano, a majestic natural landmark that forms part of the border between Chile and Bolivia, soaring over 5,900 meters (19,356 feet).

The impressive cone of this stratovolcano dominates the surroundings, accompanied by remarkable sites like the Quepiaco wetlands, a vast area adorned with unique flora located at the base of the volcanic range, which we will explore during our visit.

We will then continue eastward, making a stop to capture a memorable photo alongside the Monjes de la Pakana, wind-eroded geological formations that were revered as stone guardians by the ancient civilizations of the altiplano.

Feeling peckish? Midday will be our time to refuel with lunch. You have the option to enjoy a meal on the way (including a main dish and a drink) or at a restaurant (which includes a main dish with two choices and a drink).

Next, we will discover the spectacular Aguas Calientes and Quisquiro salt flats, where the glistening white surfaces create a breathtaking contrast against the Andean backdrop. These wonders truly feel otherworldly! Our adventure will also include a visit to the Laguna Negra, or "Black Lagoon". Can you guess how it earned its unique name?

Finally, we will return to San Pedro de Atacama, concluding our journey in the city center approximately 7.5 to 8 hours later.

Pickup Information

The excursion includes pick-up from hotels situated within a 5-kilometer (3.10 miles) radius of the center of San Pedro de Atacama. If available, arrangements can be made for pickups at hotels closer (up to 2 kilometers) or farther away (up to 10 kilometers), so we recommend selecting accommodation within the historic district of San Pedro for convenience. Note that pick-ups in the nearby towns of Ayllus, Solor, Cucuter, and Toconao are not included.

For those staying outside the central area, alternative meeting points will be provided in your reservation confirmation.

Itinerary Variability

Please be aware that the sequence of the visits outlined in the itinerary may change for organizational purposes.