San Pedro de Atacama | Chile
San Pedro de Atacama | Chile
San Pedro de Atacama is located in the Antofagasta Region, in northern Chile.
It is at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters above sea level.
The town is small and is surrounded by the Atacama Desert, known for its unique landscape and its rich archaeological and natural offerings.
What do we find in San Pedro de Atacama?
In San Pedro de Atacama you will find a unique combination of breathtaking desert landscapes, ancient archaeological sites and a vibrant local culture. Here are some highlights:
- Natural Landscapes:
- Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon): Moon-like landscape with rock formations and salt flats.
- Geysers del Tatio: Geothermal field with geysers and hot springs.
- Altiplano Lagoons: Such as Laguna Miscanti and Laguna Chaxa, home to flamingos and other bird species.
- Archaeological Sites:
- Pukará de Quitor: Pre-Columbian fortress built by the Atacameño people.
- Tulor: Archaeological site featuring circular structures from ancient civilizations.
- R. P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum: Exhibits artifacts and archaeological remains from the region.
- Culture and Traditions:
- Rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Atacameño people.
- Local cuisine including dishes like “cordero al palo” (spit-roasted lamb) and “empanada de queso” (cheese empanada).
- Local crafts such as textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry.
- Tourist Activities:
- Astronomical tours for stargazing due to low light pollution.
- Trekking and excursions to explore the desert and its natural formations.
- Adventure tourism activities such as sandboarding and mountain biking.
San Pedro de Atacama is a popular tourist destination known for its extreme natural beauty, fascinating history, and unique atmosphere in the midst of the world’s driest desert.
What activities can be done in San Pedro de Atacama?
En San Pedro de Atacama puedes disfrutar de:
- Observación Astronómica: Tours para ver estrellas y planetas.
- Naturaleza: Visitar el Valle de la Luna, Geysers del Tatio, y lagunas altiplánicas.
- Arqueología: Explorar Pukará de Quitor y Tulor.
- Aventura: Sandboarding, trekking, y mountain bike en el desierto.
- Cultura: Comprar artesanías y probar la gastronomía local.
San Pedro de Atacama ofrece experiencias únicas en un entorno natural y cultural fascinante.
How to get to San Pedro de Atacama?
To get to San Pedro de Atacama:
- By air: Fly to El Loa International Airport in Calama from Santiago or other major cities. From Calama, take a transfer or bus to San Pedro de Atacama, about 100 km away.
- By land: From Calama, you can take a direct bus that will take you to San Pedro de Atacama in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
These are the main options to reach San Pedro de Atacama, known for its access via Calama, Chile.
