If you’re looking for an adventure where the sun is almost guaranteed, the skies are never cloudy, and the scenery feels like it’s from another planet, welcome to the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile. Known for its surreal landscapes, the Atacama is the driest desert in the world (yes, it’s even drier than the Sahara – beat that), and it’s packed with salt flats, flamingos, and the kind of stargazing opportunities that make you wonder if you’ve accidentally stumbled onto an alien planet. I mean, why not? The desert’s landscape could make even Mars jealous.
The Atacama is for the adventurer, the dreamer, and especially for solo travelers like me. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient salt flats, hike up volcanoes, or simply drink in the views from a desert mirage, this place has it all. But what about the practical stuff? Let’s break it down.
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In this post:
1. My Itinerary: A Desert Odyssey
2. Best Time to Visit the Atacama Desert
3. Where to Stay: From Budget Hostels to Luxe Desert Villas
5. Top Activities: Your Adventure Awaits
6. Why It’s Perfect for Solo Travelers – Especially Solo Female Travelers
My Itinerary: A Desert Odyssey
Now, let me tell you how I did this desert adventure on a tight schedule. I flew into Calama airport. Quick pro-tip: it’s your gateway to the Atacama (need an airport transfer? Book a reliable transfer from Calama to San Pedro here). From there, I hopped on a bus to San Pedro de Atacama, where I stayed for a few nights. San Pedro is the desert’s central hub for excursions, and it’s a great base for exploring. I’m an independent soul, so I usually rent a car… except here. The Atacama is high-altitude, with roads that take you above 4,000 meters (yes, that’s a whole lot of altitude), and trust me, it’s better not to risk altitude sickness or running out of gas. Stick with tours or buses, and just enjoy the ride. Trust me, your body will thank you. Book a tour here.
For those of you who prefer a little more freedom, you can check car deals here,but remember the altitude challenge.
After my San Pedro adventure, I made my way back to Calama airport, but this time, I rented a car to drive up the coast to Antofagasta, a coastal city that’s more relaxed but equally stunning (looking for car rentals? Check deals here). The whole trip gave me just enough time to take in the salt flats, volcanos, and breathtaking valleys of the Atacama before heading out.
Best Time to Visit the Atacama Desert
Wondering when to pack your bags and head to the desert? Good news: The Atacama is an all-year-round destination. It’s almost always sunny, which, let’s be real, is what we all need. But the temperature does vary, especially at night – it can get pretty chilly, even in summer, so bring layers! The warmest months are from October to April, perfect for a summer escape, but don’t let winter scare you. Even in winter, daytime temperatures are pleasant. Just layer up, and you’re good to go.
Tip: If you’re planning on visiting during peak season (December to February), consider booking your tours and accommodations early. Everyone will be in the desert at that time.
Where to Stay: From Budget Hostels to Luxe Desert Villas
San Pedro de Atacama is the place to stay if you want to be close to everything. As a solo female traveler, I recommend booking a safe and cozy spot where you can recharge after a long day of exploring. If you’re on a tight budget, you can book a bed in one of the many hostels in the town – a good option for meeting fellow travelers and sharing tips.
Travel hack alert! Many hotels offer special deals for the U.S. and some Asian countries. Get a VPN, change your location, and score the best possible rates! Get yours here.
Hostal Mamatierra: Cozy, affordable, and close to San Pedro’s center, this hostel charms with clean rooms, great breakfasts, and helpful staff. Perfect for budget travelers, it scores an impressive 9.1 on Booking.com. Book here
Anka Hostel: Modern and social, Anka Hostel is a top pick for budget travelers with its comfy beds, sparkling clean spaces, and great breakfast. Book here
Hotel Cumbres de Atacama blends desert chic with luxury. With killer views of the Andes, spacious rooms, and a killer pool, it’s the perfect base for adventuring through the surreal landscapes of this otherworldly region. Book your stay here
Hotel Atacama Suites: Featuring an outdoor pool and contemporary design, this hotel provides a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Book your stay here
Our Habitas Atacama: If you’re all about the desert vibes with a touch of eco-luxury, Our Habitas Atacama is the place to be. Set against the dramatic desert landscape, it offers chic, sustainable accommodations with stunning views, plus a pool to cool off after a day of desert adventures. The vibe? Relaxed, stylish, and totally immersed in nature. Book here
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa: For a full-on desert retreat, Tierra Atacama is where luxury meets adventure. Located just outside San Pedro, it’s all about stunning desert views, an incredible spa to unwind, and guided excursions that let you explore the Atacama in style. After a day of hiking or stargazing, the cozy rooms and pool are the perfect way to relax and recharge. Book your stay here
Insta-worthy spots In Atacama desert
Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is a vast, arid expanse that stretches across northern Chile, known for being the driest place on Earth. It’s a land of surreal landscapes: salt flats, geysers, and multi-colored lagoons that make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Perfect for those seeking adventure, photography, and a unique connection with nature.
Piedras Rojas
Piedras Rojas, or “Red Stones,” is a stunning valley filled with red-hued rocks, high-altitude lagoons, and salt flats. The contrast of the vibrant red stones against the azure sky and turquoise waters is jaw-dropping, and it’s one of the best spots to capture the essence of the Atacama’s wild beauty. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Laguna Miniques
A high-altitude beauty where deep blue waters meet rugged volcanic landscapes, pure serenity at 4,100 meters.
Laguna Miscanti
Like a mirror to the sky, this stunning lagoon reflects the magic of the Atacama with its surreal colors and towering backdrop.
Salar de Atacama & Laguna Chaxa
A salt flat wonderland where pink flamingos strut against a backdrop of endless white and distant volcanoes.
Valle de la Luna
Step onto another planet with otherworldly dunes, salt formations, and Mars-like landscapes that glow at sunset. Book your tour of Valle de la Luna here.
Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley)
Death Valley might sound intimidating, but it’s one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Atacama. With jagged rock formations, deep canyons, and vast sand dunes, this valley looks like something out of a desert fantasy. Whether you’re sandboarding or just soaking in the dramatic scenery, this spot will leave you awestruck.
Trópico de Capricornio (Tropic of Capricorn)
Located in the heart of the Atacama Desert, the Tropic of Capricorn marks a line of latitude that signifies the southernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead. It’s an iconic spot to visit.
Tuyajto Lake
Nestled at high altitudes, Tuyajto Lake is a hidden gem in the Atacama region. Surrounded by mountains and salt flats, the lake’s vivid blue water contrasts beautifully with the stark, barren landscape.
Mano del Desierto (Hand of the Desert)
This giant hand sculpture, located in the middle of the Atacama Desert, is both eerie and fascinating. Standing 36 feet tall, the hand emerges from the desert sand as a symbol of humanity’s presence in one of the most remote places on Earth. It’s a surreal, out-of-place sight in the vastness of the desert.
La Portada
La Portada is a natural rock arch located along the Pacific coast near Antofagasta. With its towering cliffs and massive arch formation, it’s a popular spot for photos and a peaceful break from the desert.
Top Activities In Atacama: Your Adventure Awaits
The Atacama Desert is not just about dry dirt and salt – oh no. It’s about the experiences you can have and the memories you’ll make. Here are my top activities that you absolutely cannot miss:
Discover the 7 hidden lagoons of Baltinache and see the crystal-clear waters among rock and sand formations on a guided trip from San Pedro de Atacama. Book here.
Piedras Rojas, Altiplanics Lagoons & Salar Full-Day Tour
Take a full-day excursion to visit the Miscanti and Miñique lagoons, Salar de Talar, and the Atacameño village of Socaire. Observe the famous Salar de Atacama from above, and enjoy included meals. Book your tour here.
From San Pedro de Atacama: 3-Day Uyuni Salt Flat Tour (Bolivia crossing)
Depart from San Pedro de Atacama to explore Uyuni on a 3-day trip. Visit the fascinating Salar de Uyuni, Incahuasi Island, and the Red Lagoon, and encounter geysers and hot springs. Book one of the most unique tour of your life here.
Sandboarding in Valle de la Muerte
Want to channel your inner daredevil? Sandboarding down the dunes in Death Valley is not only exhilarating but will also give you that “I can conquer anything” feeling. Book your sandboarding tour here.
Explore the wonderful night sky of the Atacama Desert with a professional astronomer. The clear skies here make it one of the best stargazing spots on Earth. Don’t miss a guided stargazing tour to see constellations, planets, and galaxies in ways you’ve never imagined. Book here.
San Pedro de Atacama Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Lift off into the sky for a balloon flight across the Atacama desert. Feel the world at your feet as the sun rises behind the Licancabur Volcano and paints the Atacama mountain range in light. Check it here.
Guided Buggy Tour Through the Desert
Explore the Atacama Desert riding a buggy through a variety of terrains such as riverbed crossings, steep mountain climbs, and beautiful sand dunes. Escape the hordes of tourists and learn about geology, wildlife, and the surroundings with a local guide. Check out here.
Set your alarm early (like, really early), because this sunrise tour to the Tatio Geysers will be one of the coolest things you’ve ever seen. Book your Tatio Geysers tour here.
Why It’s Perfect for Solo Travelers – Especially Solo Female Travelers
Solo travelers, rejoice! The Atacama Desert is the perfect destination for those who like to explore on their own terms. It’s safe, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. The desert also offers plenty of solo activities, like hiking and stargazing, where you can immerse yourself in nature without feeling rushed. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely comfortable in San Pedro de Atacama, and the tour operators are professional and trustworthy, so you don’t need to worry about any sketchy situations. Plus, you’ll meet other travelers on tours, so you’ll never feel completely alone.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Atacama Desert
Costs can vary, but accommodations, tours, and food can be on the pricier side due to the remote location. Budget travelers can save by choosing hostels and self-guided activities.
The Atacama is home to unique wildlife like flamingos, vicuñas, foxes, and even some hardy plant species adapted to the arid environment.
San Pedro de Atacama sits at about 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) above sea level. Some sites can be over 4,000 meters, so be mindful of altitude sickness. Drink water, take it slow, and don’t push yourself too hard.
Final Thoughts About Atacama
The Atacama Desert is one of the most unique and beautiful places I’ve ever been, and if you’re a solo traveler, it’s an absolute must-visit. Whether you’re hiking through valleys, relaxing in hot springs, or gazing at the stars, you’ll find that this destination has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. The landscape is mind-blowing, the experiences are once-in-a-lifetime, and the memories you make will stay with you long after you leave. So, pack your bags (and sunscreen), and get ready to explore one of the most incredible places on Earth.
Just don’t forget, travel insurance is essential for any adventure! It’s there to cover unexpected mishaps, lost gear, or travel interruptions. Explore with peace of mind and focus on the journey ahead! Check options here.
