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6 days
WPCHI-002

The Chilean Atacama Desert

Santiago – San Pedro de Atacama – Valparaiso
From USD 2540

Experience a captivating 6-day adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Chile, from the desert of Atacama to the nearby oasis town of San Pedro. Explore the mystical Moon and Death valleys, witness the incredible Rainbow mountains and ancient geoglyphs, and marvel at the graceful flamingos at the Chaxa Lagoon. Conclude the trip with a few days in Santiago and don't miss the chance to visit the charming portside city of Valparaiso on a unique walking tour.

Highlights

  •  Discover the surreal landscapes of Moon Valley, Death Valley, and Dinosaur Valley in San Pedro de Atacama
  • Marvel at the colorful Rainbow Mountains and ancient petroglyphs of Yerbas Buenas
  • Visit the largest salt flat in Chile and spot three different species of flamingos at Chaxa Lagoon
  • Take a dip in the hot springs of one of the biggest geothermal fields in the world on an optional day trip to Tatio Geysers
  • Experience a unique walking tour of the portside city of Valparaiso with a local guide

Itinerary

Summary
Unfold Itinerary
Pricing
... - SANTIAGO (-)

Welcome to the cosmopolitan city of Santiago! Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and privately transferred to your hotel (early check-in is not included).

SANTIAGO - CALAMA – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA (B, L*, D*)

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Santiago and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Calama (flight not included). After a 2-hour journey, you will land in Calama and be picked up for a 1.5-hour private transfer to San Pedro de Atacama (early check-in is not included).

In the afternoon, you will embark on a half-day tour through the Salt Mountain Range, a unique geological wonder created over many millennia by the conflicting pressures of the Andes and the Cordillera de Domeyko. The tour will take you to Dinosaur, Death, and Moon Valley, each offering stunning views of the mountain range and its volcanoes. At Moon Valley, you will visit the Central Crater for a better view of the valley and the amphitheater before heading to a viewpoint overlooking the Three Marys, which are naturally occurring geological formations shaped like Mother Mary praying. As the sun sets, you will witness a beautiful light show of soft pink and red hues reflecting off the rock and petrified salt crystals in Death Valley. To celebrate this natural spectacle, you will enjoy a glass of Chilean wine and some snacks.

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA (B, L*, D* )

Embark on a 4-hour tour from San Pedro de Atacama to witness the stunning landscapes of Rainbow Valley and the ancient petroglyphs of Yerbas Buenas. First, you'll head towards Yerbas Buenas, which is approximately 90 km from San Pedro. Along the way, you'll see breathtaking views of the Cordillera Domeyko mountain range in the Andes on the horizon. Once you arrive at Yerbas Buenas, you'll visit its ancient petroglyphs and learn about the history of the people who inhabited the area thousands of years ago. After a short break to enjoy your snack, you'll journey across the ancient farmlands of Matancilla to reach Rainbow Valley. Make sure to keep your camera handy as you weave your way through its multi-colored rock formations.

We recommend that you wear comfortable, warm clothes, a sun hat, and sunglasses. A moderate amount of walking is involved, so please wear comfortable shoes.

This half-day sightseeing tour in the afternoon takes you to the Atacama Salt Flat and the neighboring village of Toconao. With 3,000 sq km (1,200 sq miles), this salt flat is the largest salt deposit in Chile and the third largest in the world. The dry air and silence here form an ideal environment for thousands of flamingos, especially during the summer. On the way to the salt flat, you'll make a stop in Toconao to admire the Saint Luke Church and the bell tower, the most well-known attractions of the village. Continuing south, you'll arrive at Chaxa Lagoon, a part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve, where you'll be able to see three different species of flamingos, namely the Andean, Chilean, and James's flamingo.

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – CALAMA – SANTIAGO (B)

After checking out of your hotel, you will be picked and privately transferred to Calama for your flight back to Santiago (flight not included). Upon arrival you will be picked up and privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Optional Excursion:
Tatio Geysers with Breakfast (please see additional cost below)
Depart early in the morning and make your way to one of the biggest geothermal fields in the world – the Tatio Geysers (a 2-hour drive) at 4320 m / 14,173ft. You will arrive at sunrise, the best time to observe the natural spectacle that takes place there every morning. Boiling water gurgles in the frozen ground and then emerges violently as steam plumes throughout the over 100 geysers, pools and fumaroles. Take some time to soak in one of the hot springs before you continue to your last stop in Machuca. You have some time to explore this tiny adobe village at your leisure, checking out its wooden San Santiago church and a handful of houses built with adobe, straw and cactus wood before your return.

For optional:
We recommend comfortable, warm clothing, sun protection and comfortable closed shoes (the temperature is always below zero). Those who want to try the hot springs should bring their swimsuit and a towel.
Not recommended for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, pregnant women and children under 6 years of age.
We recommend that you eat only light food on the evening before and drink plenty of water and tea.
Extra Price for Tatio Geysers with Breakfast: 250
(shared with other travelers for Superior* & Comfort* categories)

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SANTIAGO – VALPARAISO – SANTIAGO (B)
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Early this morning, you will be privately transferred to the bus station to board a regular tourist bus from Santiago to Valparaiso (only transportation).

Discover the true essence of the Porteno soul in Valparaiso, a city that's almost completely intervened by urban art. Even though Valpo is a mere 116 km (72 miles) from Santiago, the vibe of the cities couldn’t be more different. Led by local guide Felipe, this immersive walking tour takes you on a journey to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Valparaiso is often referred to as the "street art capital of Chile," and for good reason. With politically charged murals and thought-provoking graffiti art around every corner, it's a paradise for art lovers and a reflection of the city's cultural heritage. Felipe will take you on a journey to discover the historic landmarks, as well as the modern attraction of the street art scene. Don't miss the chance to see the murals of internationally renowned artists like Inti and Charkipunk. Hop on public transportation and visit iconic landmarks such as the gardens of the Museum of Sebastiana (the home of Pablo Neruda) and Alemania Avenue. Explore the vibrant heritage areas of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion and enjoy a panoramic view of the historic district from Paseo Yugoslavo. Admire the unique architecture as you make your way to Casa Crucero, and marvel at the iconic Scale of Colors.

Take a break at Café Malvarosa or one of the many charming independently run coffee shops that Valparaiso has to offer and indulge in traditional Chilean cuisine like empanadas or a delicious coffee. After your break, stroll along the famous Gervasoni and Atkinson promenades, and end your tour at the Piano Scale. As the tour comes to a close, ride the historic Queen Victoria elevator back.

After your walking tour, return by regular tourist bus from Valparaiso to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be picked up and privately escorted back to your hotel.

Today's WP excursion

sustainable icon
Support local and sustainable products
protect environment icon
Protect the environment by exploring actively
SANTIAGO - ... (B)

It is time to bid farewell to Chile! After checking out of your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport to take your flight back home (flight is not included).

... - SANTIAGO (-)

Welcome to the cosmopolitan city of Santiago! Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and privately transferred to your hotel (early check-in is not included).

SANTIAGO - CALAMA – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA (B, L*, D*)

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Santiago and privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Calama (flight not included). After a 2-hour journey, you will land in Calama and be picked up for a 1.5-hour private transfer to San Pedro de Atacama (early check-in is not included).

In the afternoon, you will embark on a half-day tour through the Salt Mountain Range, a unique geological wonder created over many millennia by the conflicting pressures of the Andes and the Cordillera de Domeyko. The tour will take you to Dinosaur, Death, and Moon Valley, each offering stunning views of the mountain range and its volcanoes. At Moon Valley, you will visit the Central Crater for a better view of the valley and the amphitheater before heading to a viewpoint overlooking the Three Marys, which are naturally occurring geological formations shaped like Mother Mary praying. As the sun sets, you will witness a beautiful light show of soft pink and red hues reflecting off the rock and petrified salt crystals in Death Valley. To celebrate this natural spectacle, you will enjoy a glass of Chilean wine and some snacks.

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA (B, L*, D* )

Embark on a 4-hour tour from San Pedro de Atacama to witness the stunning landscapes of Rainbow Valley and the ancient petroglyphs of Yerbas Buenas. First, you'll head towards Yerbas Buenas, which is approximately 90 km from San Pedro. Along the way, you'll see breathtaking views of the Cordillera Domeyko mountain range in the Andes on the horizon. Once you arrive at Yerbas Buenas, you'll visit its ancient petroglyphs and learn about the history of the people who inhabited the area thousands of years ago. After a short break to enjoy your snack, you'll journey across the ancient farmlands of Matancilla to reach Rainbow Valley. Make sure to keep your camera handy as you weave your way through its multi-colored rock formations.

We recommend that you wear comfortable, warm clothes, a sun hat, and sunglasses. A moderate amount of walking is involved, so please wear comfortable shoes.

This half-day sightseeing tour in the afternoon takes you to the Atacama Salt Flat and the neighboring village of Toconao. With 3,000 sq km (1,200 sq miles), this salt flat is the largest salt deposit in Chile and the third largest in the world. The dry air and silence here form an ideal environment for thousands of flamingos, especially during the summer. On the way to the salt flat, you'll make a stop in Toconao to admire the Saint Luke Church and the bell tower, the most well-known attractions of the village. Continuing south, you'll arrive at Chaxa Lagoon, a part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve, where you'll be able to see three different species of flamingos, namely the Andean, Chilean, and James's flamingo.

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – CALAMA – SANTIAGO (B)

After checking out of your hotel, you will be picked and privately transferred to Calama for your flight back to Santiago (flight not included). Upon arrival you will be picked up and privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Optional Excursion:
Tatio Geysers with Breakfast (please see additional cost below)
Depart early in the morning and make your way to one of the biggest geothermal fields in the world – the Tatio Geysers (a 2-hour drive) at 4320 m / 14,173ft. You will arrive at sunrise, the best time to observe the natural spectacle that takes place there every morning. Boiling water gurgles in the frozen ground and then emerges violently as steam plumes throughout the over 100 geysers, pools and fumaroles. Take some time to soak in one of the hot springs before you continue to your last stop in Machuca. You have some time to explore this tiny adobe village at your leisure, checking out its wooden San Santiago church and a handful of houses built with adobe, straw and cactus wood before your return.

For optional:
We recommend comfortable, warm clothing, sun protection and comfortable closed shoes (the temperature is always below zero). Those who want to try the hot springs should bring their swimsuit and a towel.
Not recommended for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, pregnant women and children under 6 years of age.
We recommend that you eat only light food on the evening before and drink plenty of water and tea.
Extra Price for Tatio Geysers with Breakfast: 250
(shared with other travelers for Superior* & Comfort* categories)

*Please note that lunch, dinner, and a-la-carte excursions are included only in the Luxury Hotel Category on an all-inclusive basis.

SANTIAGO – VALPARAISO – SANTIAGO (B)
wanderful purpose logo

Early this morning, you will be privately transferred to the bus station to board a regular tourist bus from Santiago to Valparaiso (only transportation).

Discover the true essence of the Porteno soul in Valparaiso, a city that's almost completely intervened by urban art. Even though Valpo is a mere 116 km (72 miles) from Santiago, the vibe of the cities couldn’t be more different. Led by local guide Felipe, this immersive walking tour takes you on a journey to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Valparaiso is often referred to as the "street art capital of Chile," and for good reason. With politically charged murals and thought-provoking graffiti art around every corner, it's a paradise for art lovers and a reflection of the city's cultural heritage. Felipe will take you on a journey to discover the historic landmarks, as well as the modern attraction of the street art scene. Don't miss the chance to see the murals of internationally renowned artists like Inti and Charkipunk. Hop on public transportation and visit iconic landmarks such as the gardens of the Museum of Sebastiana (the home of Pablo Neruda) and Alemania Avenue. Explore the vibrant heritage areas of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion and enjoy a panoramic view of the historic district from Paseo Yugoslavo. Admire the unique architecture as you make your way to Casa Crucero, and marvel at the iconic Scale of Colors.

Take a break at Café Malvarosa or one of the many charming independently run coffee shops that Valparaiso has to offer and indulge in traditional Chilean cuisine like empanadas or a delicious coffee. After your break, stroll along the famous Gervasoni and Atkinson promenades, and end your tour at the Piano Scale. As the tour comes to a close, ride the historic Queen Victoria elevator back.

After your walking tour, return by regular tourist bus from Valparaiso to Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago, you will be picked up and privately escorted back to your hotel.

Today's WP excursion

sustainable icon
Support local and sustainable products
protect environment icon
Protect the environment by exploring actively
SANTIAGO - ... (B)

It is time to bid farewell to Chile! After checking out of your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport to take your flight back home (flight is not included).

Price per person in USD

Double
Single Supplement

Superior

2540
390

Comfort

2645
435

Luxury

3510
990

Additional Experiences/Supplements

In USD

Tatio Geysers with Breakfast on Day 4 (7 hours) for Superior and Comfort Categories (incl. for stays in Tierra Atacama)
$ 265

Included

  • Transfers from / to the airport or bus station
  • Accommodation based on TWIN or DOUBLE in the selected hotel category
  • Private tours with local English speaking guides for:
    • Day 2: Moon & Death Valley Tour in San Pedro de Atacama
    • Day 5: Walking Tour in Valparaiso
  • Tours shared with other travelers, with local English/Spanish speaking guide for:
    • Day 3: Tours to rainbow valley & Atacama salt flat in San Pedro de AtacamaFor Luxury Category only: 3-days / 2-night all inclusive program with transfers, a-la-carte excursions and full meals in San Pedro de Atacama
  • Entrance fees to the sites noted in the itinerary (important: the chronological order of visits in the itinerary may change to ensure the best operation)
  • Meals as noted (B: breakfast, BoxedL: boxed lunch, L: lunch, D: dinner)
  • Permanent assistance by our Guest Experience Department

Excluded

  • International flights
  • Domestic flights
  • Tips (for guides, drivers, waiters, luggage porters)
  • Beverages during meals (unless specified in the itinerary)
  • Early check in / late check out unless explicitly stated

Prices are not valid on national holidays:

  • September 18th to 21st
  • Dec 24th to 25th
  • Dec 31st to Jan 01st
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