Atacama Salt Flats Toconao Village
Duración: 4 Horas
Join us for an exhilarating adventure as we delve into some of the desert's most iconic spots, including the Salar de Atacama and the Toconao Village, along with other hidden gems. Delight in a sumptuous breakfast crafted by our guide, set against an unforgettable backdrop. (Private Only)
Our journey begins at the Salar de Atacama, a breathtaking expanse, recognized as the largest in Chile and the third largest globally, encircled by towering mountains and volcanoes.
Within this salt flat, we will discover one of the desert's largest salt lagoons, Laguna Chaxa, home to a variety of migratory birds, including the renowned Chilean Flamingo.
Next, we head to the charming Toconao Village, situated just a few kilometers from the salt flat. Its cobbled streets and adobe structures exude a rustic allure that beautifully contrasts with the barren surroundings. We will explore its celebrated local handicrafts market and the Liparite Stone sculptures.
Our final stop, though equally significant, is the Quebrada de Jere, an oasis amidst the desert. Here, a gentle stream winds through imposing stone canyons and lush local flora. This area also boasts a notable archaeological site featuring petroglyphs and pictographs.
Undoubtedly, this is a chance to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of San Pedro de Atacama and to marvel at the grandeur of this secluded part of Chile.
We eagerly await your visit. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity!
From 166.836 ARS
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Descripción del Tour:
Today, we'll set off from our hotel in San Pedro at around 7:00 a.m., aiming to make the most of our morning. We'll travel approximately 55 km to arrive at the Los Flamencos National Reserve Park, marking the beginning of an exhilarating journey that showcases a variety of landscapes.
Our initial destination is the Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat and the third largest worldwide.
This vast white expanse stretches endlessly, forming a lunar landscape that starkly contrasts with the brilliant blue sky and encircling mountains. We'll have the chance to stroll across the salt flat, admire the remarkable salt formations, and immerse ourselves in the expansive scenery.
Nestled within the salt flat is one of the desert's largest salt lagoons, Laguna Chaxa, which attracts numerous migratory birds, including the renowned Chilean Flamingo, thanks to its high salt and nutrient levels.
During our visit, our guide will ensure we find the perfect spot for a picturesque breakfast setting.
Following this restful pause, we'll proceed to Toconao Village, a charming town situated just a few kilometers from the Salar de Atacama. Its cobblestone streets and adobe houses exude a rustic allure amidst the surrounding desert.
A key attraction in Toconao is the Church of San Lucas, an 18th-century structure recognized as a National Monument. The village is also celebrated for its local crafts, notably sculptures crafted from liparite stone, a type of volcanic rock.
We'll immerse ourselves in the local culture before heading to our final yet equally remarkable destination, La Quebrada de Jere, an oasis amid the arid desert. Here, you'll discover a small stream meandering through towering stone canyons and lush vegetation, including palm trees and carob trees.
This area is also a significant archaeological site, featuring petroglyphs and pictographs that highlight the presence of ancient cultures in the region.
This tour, encompassing the Salar de Atacama, the town of Toconao, and the Quebrada de Jere, offers a distinctive experience where natural splendor, local culture, and history converge in a remarkable manner.
It's an opportunity to connect with the diverse offerings of San Pedro de Atacama and admire the grandeur of this secluded corner of Chile.
Lo que SI incluye:
Entrance fees to tourist sites/Bilingual guide
Lo que NO incluye:
Drinks or Food not specified/Tips or extras
Preguntas Frecuentes
The excursion includes round-trip transportation from San Pedro de Atacama, a guided tour of the Salar de Atacama, a visit to the lagoons and the local flora and fauna, and a walk through the picturesque town of Toconao. The tour is conducted by expert guides in tourism and safety, ensuring an enriching experience. It also includes stops to enjoy the panoramic views and take photographs. It is important to confirm whether the package includes any food or drinks, as these may vary depending on the travel agency.
The best time to visit the Salar de Atacama is during the spring and fall months, from September to November and from March to May. During these times, the weather is milder, allowing you to enjoy excursions without the intense heat of summer or the extreme cold of winter. However, the Salar de Atacama can be visited year-round, as long as you take the proper precautions and wear clothing appropriate for the desert region's weather conditions.
The climate in the Salar de Atacama is desert-like, characterized by large temperature variations between day and night. During the day, temperatures can exceed 30°C, while at night, they can drop below 0°C. The climate in Toconao is similar, so it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the sun during the day and the cold at night. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the excursion.
The Salar de Atacama and Toconao tour is suitable for most people, as it consists primarily of vehicle tours with stops for exploring and hiking on generally flat terrain. However, good mobility is recommended, as some sections of the tour may require moderate walking. It is important to inform the guide of any medical conditions or physical limitations before beginning the tour to ensure appropriate safety measures are taken and the experience can be fully enjoyed.
To fully enjoy your visit to the Salar de Atacama, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, such as long-sleeved shirts, a hat, and sunglasses. Bringing enough water to stay hydrated throughout the excursion is essential. It is also important to have a camera or smartphone to capture the incredible beauty of the landscape. Respect local regulations and take care of the natural environment, as this is a fragile ecosystem. Following the tour guide's instructions for a safe and enriching experience is key to fully enjoying this natural wonder.