Ultimate Atacama Desert Travel Guide 2025
¡Alabalti Alabalti! Meaning welcome in the recently extinct language of Kunza, the indigenous language of the Atacameños.
This was the least exciting part of the trip to Chile—or so I thought. “What will we explore? The driest desert on Earth.. Just endless stretches of the lifeless landscape?”
To my surprise, the landscape of Atacama Desert transformed with every passing minute, its shifting colors and subtle nuances were already enough to drive me crazy.. Then, out of nowhere, vicuñas appeared. And that thermal spring—where did it even come from?
Is this the best skies on Earth? Am I at the Dune film set?
The Atacama Desert turned out to be an extraordinary mix of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a surprisingly affordable destination compared to Patagonia or Rapa Nui during our trip to Chile.
I have to admit–Atacama Desert ended up being my favorite place in all of Chile!
P.S.: Chile is a country of incredible contrasts—from the cosmopolitan streets of Santiago de Chile to the glacial fjords of Patagonia, from the mysterious moai statues of Easter Island to these otherworldly Atacama Desert landscapes. If you’re planning your own Chilean adventure, you’ll want to experience all these diverse regions to truly understand what makes this South American destination so extraordinary.
Table of Contents
Quick Atacama Desert Travel Facts
- Best Time to Visit: June to September (winter season) – but we visited at the end of December and everything went well
- Recommended Duration: 3-4 days minimum
- Base Town: San Pedro de Atacama
- Altitude: Above 2,400 meters (acclimatization needed)
- Must-Book: All park entrances require advance online reservations
How to Get to the Atacama Desert
You can easily find an affordable 2-hour domestic flight from Santiago to Calama Airport (CJC), which is considered the main airport for the Atacama Desert.
Calama is a large city in the Atacama Desert, but you wouldn’t want to stay there—not only due to security concerns but also because it is far from the main attractions.
Your base will be the lovely little town of San Pedro de Atacama. San Pedro de Atacama is only 1 hour and 15 minutes away, and you can either rent a car or take a shuttle bus.
Getting from Calama Airport to San Pedro de Atacama
By Rental Car (Recommended): The best way to explore the Atacama Desert is by renting your own car. Driving in the area is very easy, as the roads are well-maintained, allowing you to explore the region freely, at your own pace, and even save money, as tours can be more expensive.
By Shuttle Bus: The shuttle bus from Calama Airport to San Pedro takes 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs around $19 USD per person (one-way) or $24 USD per person (round-trip). The shuttle bus from Calama Airport to San Pedro takes 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs around $19 USD per person (one-way) or $24 USD per person (round-trip). Service runs from 7 AM to 9 PM.
For your return trip, you might prefer a more comfortable yet economical option, such as a shared van for around €28 per person.
Car Rental Tips for Atacama Desert
Book Your Rental Car in Advance – Secure your car rental at Calama Airport before arriving. Prices are lower, and availability is better in Calama compared to San Pedro de Atacama.
Choose the Right Vehicle – We reserved our car rental online through DiscoverCars.com while planning our trip, which helped us find affordable options in Calama. Car rental prices in San Pedro de Atacama were higher respect to only. Another issue for us with renting a car from San Pedro de Atacama was that mostly the available options were pickup trucks! Renting such a large vehicle is not necessary and can be challenging to park in San Pedro town center.
We did our entire trip in a small budget car a compact SUV to be precise, and had no issues. A 4×4 is naturally ideal for rougher terrains, but not always necessary unless visiting remote locations like Laguna Baltinache. For Laguna Baltinache I would recommend you a professional organized tour.
Safety Note: Avoid Renting in Calama City – Calama City has security concerns, so it’s best to rent your car directly from Calama Airport and drive straight to San Pedro de Atacama.
Best Time to Visit the Atacama Desert
We visited the Atacama Desert during Christmas, which is arguably one of the least recommended times due to the hot weather and crowds.That said, we actually had a great time! Aside from the packed restaurants, everything went smoothly. Honestly, I even enjoyed seeing San Pedro de Atacama buzzing with people—lively, vibrant, and full of energy.
Summer Season (December – February): Our Experience
Yes, it was hot and the sun was intense, but we had a constant breeze that made it bearable. If you plan to do more demanding excursions like Valle de la Muerte and Valle de la Luna, avoid midday if you can. (We didn’t—and still survived!)
Thanks to Atacama’s altitude—over 2,200 meters above sea level—the heat isn’t as brutal as in other deserts. Plus, the dry climate helps make the temperature feel a few degrees cooler than it actually is. We had clear skies every day, which made our stargazing tour absolutely incredible.
Daytime temperatures hovered around 30°C (86°F) but felt more like 27–28°C due to the dry air.
At night, temps dropped fast—to about 10°C, and even down to 6–7°C in the late hours. A warm jacket and a hat were definitely necessary!
Best Season: Winter (June – September)
If you’re aiming for the best weather to visit Atacama, plan your trip for winter, from June to September. During this season, daytime temperatures are much milder—around 20°C (68°F)—with nighttime lows dropping to 0°C (32°F).
Rainy Season Warning: January & February
Surprise! It can rain in the desert. The so-called rainy season hits in January and February, with an average of up to 11 rainy days per month. While it’s still generally dry, it’s something to consider when planning your activities, especially if you’re interested in stargazing or salt flat visits.
How Many Days Do You Need in Atacama?
We spent 3 days in the Atacama Desert, which allowed us to explore the most famous attractions, but we felt that 4 days would be ideal to experience even more.
If we had an extra day, we would have taken an early morning tour to the El Tatio Geysers, one of the highest geyser fields in the world. Tours start at dawn because the geysers are most active in the morning due to the cold temperatures, creating spectacular steam columns against the sunrise.
Additionally, we would have booked a tour to Lagunas Baltinache (Hidden Lagoons). While it’s possible to drive there, the road conditions are rough and can be dangerous, so joining a guided tour is the safest and most stress-free option.
What to Pack for Atacama Desert
Layers, Layers, and More Layers: Trekking shoes are ideal, but we managed fine in our trusty white sneakers—though they turned a bit reddish after exploring Valle de la Muerte and Valle de la Luna. For other spots, they worked perfectly.
During my visit to Valle de la Luna, I wore capri trekking pants and a t-shirt but ended up with sunburned arms, neck, and chest. Lesson learned! Here’s my packing list to help you stay comfortable and protected:
Daytime Essentials
- Long-sleeve technical shirt – you will need protection on your arms againts the intense desert sun
- Light wind jacket – for daytime winds, even if they can be harsh sometimes.
- Sunscreen is a must for shielding your skin from UV rays
- Sunglasses protect your eyes from the bright desert glare
- Hat opt for one with neck coverage for extra sun protection
- Light trekking trousers comfortable and practical for exploring
- Flask stay hydrated in the dry climate
Nighttime Must-Haves
- Warm jacket essential for chilly evenings
- Beanie keeps you cozy, especially after dusty days
Bonus Items
- Swimsuit yes, you can swim in Atacama Desert! Pack one swimsuit for Laguna Cejar and Puritama Hot Springs
- Lip balm and moisturizer combat the desert’s dryness
Pack smart, layer up, and enjoy your Atacama adventure!
Essential Atacama Desert Travel Tips
Park Entrance & Attraction Booking
Reserve All Park Entrances in Advance – Tickets must be booked online beforehand, as many attractions do not sell them at the entrance.
Internet Access is Essential – If you need last-minute reservations, you’ll require internet access. Consider an eSIM like Hola for reliable connectivity.
Plan Visits to Lagunas and Salinas Rojas – Tickets must be used in a specific order, so plan accordingly to avoid missing out on these stunning sites.
Safety & Health Considerations
Altitude Awareness: Most of the area, including San Pedro de Atacama and the Altiplano, is above 2,400 meters (7,800 feet) in altitude. Move slowly, consume lots of water, and allow time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
Hydration & Sun Protection: The arid desert environment and strong UV radiation can lead to dehydration and sunburn very quickly. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Temperature Swings: Days are hot, but nights are below freezing. Wear layers to be comfortable.
Road & Travel Safety: Off-road travel is not necessary at most locations. But better to opt at least a small SUV car. Always carry extra fuel, and be aware of wildlife on the roads.
3-4 Day Atacama Desert Itinerary
Here is our 3-day Atacama Desert tour, including the highlights. If you have 4 days, we suggest you add the El Tatio Geysers and Lagunas Baltinache for a more complete experience.
Day 1: Valle de la Luna & Sunset Views
- Arrival in San Pedro de Atacama and acclimatization
- Visit Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) in the afternoon – stroll through surreal rock formations and observe an unforgettable sunset
- Enjoy a relaxed evening in town, trying out local cuisine
Day 2: Salt Flats and High-Altitude Lagoons
- Stop by Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas in the morning – a stunning mix of blue lagoons, red rock formations, and flamingo-dotted salt flats
- Go to Laguna Chaxa to see more flamingos in the Salar de Atacama
- Free evening in San Pedro de Atacama or excursions to local markets
Day 3: Valle de la Muerte, Puritama Hot Springs & Stargazing
- Start the day with a short walk in Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) and Valle de Marte (Mars Valley), which are famous for their reddish sand dunes
- Spend the afternoon unwinding at the Puritama Hot Springs, a collection of natural hot pools in a picturesque canyon
- At night, take a stargazing tour – Atacama’s clear skies make it one of the best places in the world to view the Milky Way and planets!
Day 4: El Tatio Geysers & Hidden Lagoons (Optional)
- Wake up early, prior to sunrise, for an excursion to El Tatio Geysers, the third-largest geyser field in the world, where sunrise creates incredible steam columns
- Afternoon excursion to Lagunas Baltinache (Hidden Lagoons) – floating in the salt waters is very similar to floating in the Dead Sea. The route is not in good condition, so I highly recommend that you take a tour rather than driving yourself.
This itinerary ensures that you get to see Atacama’s best landscapes, natural wonders, and adventure sports in a matter of days. If you are a photographer, trekker, or star gazer, you’ll want to stay even longer!
Top Atacama Desert Attractions & Must-See Places
1- Stargazing in Atacama Desert: World’s Best Night Sky
Did you know there is a “best place” on earth to observe the sky and the stars and that best place is in the Atacama Desert? Due to its low humidity and minimal light pollution Atacama is considered best place for stargazing in all Earth! San Pedro de Atacama is not only hosting world-renowned observatories and astronomers from all over the world, but also offers tourists excursions and life time experience to the tourists to observe the skies! Looking ahead, the world’s largest telescope is set to be completed here in 2034—I already take my note on my calendar!!
How to Book a Stargazing Tour in Atacama
Professional Observatories: If you are lucky, Alma Observatory sometimes accept tourist visits free of charge. They even organize a free of charge bus tour. But this is a day visit from 9 to 11 and only to learn about the technology. Check from their official website if they accept visitors. At the time we visited it was not possible to visit them.
Private Tours vs Group Tours: So I tracked from the internet an astronomic tour guide, we communicated on whatsapp which turned out to be as expensive as 150 eur per person. Not knowing what was expecting us we declined as it seemed overpriced.
Instead, on a travel agency we purchased a tour with 35000 CLP around 35usd/eur per person. It was a group tour of around 15 people, bus ride, an aperitive and most importantly a stargazing photography taken by our tour guide, an actual astronomer after the tour. Astrophotography which was a branch of photography that i was unaware of.
Our Stargazing Experience
We had two astronomers guiding and showing us with the telescopes incredible skies and stars and planets. I was impressed with Saturn and Jupiter with their rings, nebulas, Orions scuda which is not visible in other places on earth for the last 20 years. You also see the skies from a different perspective as normally we live in the Northern Hemisphere. I mean everything was mindblowing for me and I wasn’t expecting to be that impressed before the tour. you shouldn’t be missing this tour even if you are not into the astronomy like me..
Important Note: The stargazing tours are not available during the full moons and cloudy nights.
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
- Entrance Fee: $14 USD per person
- Advance Booking Required: Tickets must be purchased in advance. Get your tickets from the official website.
- Location: Just a 10-minute drive (6 km) from San Pedro de Atacama, this iconic Chilean desert destination is famous for its breathtaking, moon-like landscapes.
- Last-Minute Tickets: If available, you can purchase tickets at the automatic machines at the entrance.
Must-Know Tips for Exploring Valle de la LunaThere are 4 main stops inside Valle de la Luna:
1st STOP: Closed (at the time of visit)
- This stop, featuring caves, was closed due to safety concerns.
2nd STOP: Duna Mayor (Higher Dune Trail) – The Best Viewpoint
- Most scenic and famous stop—take your time here!
- Follow the left-side path for panoramic views (if afraid of heights, take the right).
- Don’t start your hike from the traffic road; the steep sand climb is difficult at high altitude.
- From the top, you’ll see the amphitheater rock formations and the Atacama Desert’s volcanoes, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
3rd STOP: The Three Miradores – Most Challenging
- Toughest stop due to sandy climbs.
- If visiting all three viewpoints, allow at least 1.5 hours.
- While the Duna Mayor is the highlight, the Miradores still offer spectacular views of the valley.
4th STOP: Las Salinas – Ancient Salt Mines & Caves
- Features two parking areas connected by a hill trail.
- Explore old salt mines and listen to the unique cracking sounds of salt at the mine cave near the second parking lot.
5th STOP: Tres Marías – Iconic Rock Formations
- Quick stop with a short trail leading to the famous Three Marías rock formations.
- Perfect for capturing photos of Valle de la Luna’s dramatic desert landscape.
For an unforgettable experience, plan ahead, bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes, and enjoy the otherworldly beauty of Valle de la Luna!
Bonus: Sunset at Mirador de Kari
Your Valle de la Luna ticket also grants access to Mirador de Kari (Piedra del Coyote), one of the most breathtaking panoramic spots to watch the sunset. This viewpoint is located about 7 km outside the park on the road to Calama.
To secure a good spot for sunset, visitors usually arrive early. When we visited in December, the last admission was at 19:20, but it’s best to check with the Valle de la Luna entrance office for updated entry times.
We were exhausted after a full day of exploring and couldn’t wait for sunset, but if you have the energy, this is one of the best places in the Atacama Desert to watch the sky transform over the surreal Mars-like landscape.
Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes and Piedras Rojas
Exploring Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas in Atacama. Reserve a full day to visit the stunning Lagunas Altiplánicas and Salar de Aguas Calientes/Piedras Rojas, some of the most breathtaking Atacama Desert attractions.
Entrance Fee Information: Entrance fee for 2 people: 30,000 CLP (Chilean Pesos). This fee covers access to both the Lagunas Altiplánicas and Salar de Aguas Calientes/Piedras Rojas.
Important Booking Information
Tickets can only be purchased online in advance and must be collected in Socaire, a small town about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from San Pedro de Atacama. If you’re short on time, you can choose to visit only the lagoons or only the salar. In my opinion, the Lagunas Altiplánicas are more beautiful, but both sites are worth seeing. If you purchase a ticket for both, you must follow the correct order (lagoons first, then salar), as they will check this at the entrance.
The Altiplanic Lagoons, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters, are among the top three must-see sites in the Atacama Desert. We visited them on our second day. Tickets are only available online, and you cannot go directly to the lagoons. You must first stop at the ticketing office in Socaire to confirm your presence and collect your tickets.
When we were there, some tourists arrived without reservations and struggled to purchase tickets due to weak internet connections. The staff explained that visitors without tickets would not be allowed to enter until all reserved visitors had arrived, which could delay entry until noon. This can cost you valuable time, especially if you plan to visit both the lagoons and the salar.
If you don’t have a reservation or prefer to save time, joining an organized tour in Atacama might be a good idea.
Visiting the Lagoons
The road to the lagoons is unpaved and can be challenging to drive, so be prepared to go slow. We collected our tickets at 10:30 AM, stopped for photos of the stunning landscapes and vicuñas (a llama-like animal), and arrived at the lagoons’ entrance around 12 PM. Our lagoon exploration concluded at 1 PM and, after driving 70 km, reached Salar de Aguas Calientes and Piedras Rojas around 2 PM.
Laguna Miscanti: The first lagoon to visit is Laguna Miscanti. It has an easy trail to walk, but try to avoid tour buses as the narrow path can get crowded, ruining your photos. Tours usually arrive early, so arriving later (like we did) might help you avoid the crowds.
Laguna Miñiques: After Laguna Miscanti, you’ll drive about 5 minutes to Laguna Miñiques. There’s another short trail with breathtaking views, and there’s also a toilet facility here. Bring food and drinks with you, as the only place to buy anything is back in Socaire. On your way, you might also want to stop at the Tropic of Capricorn sign for a quick photo.
Salar de Aguas Calientes and Piedras Rojas
We finished visiting the lagoons at 1 PM and, after driving 70 km, reached Salar de Aguas Calientes and Piedras Rojas around 2 PM. There are toilet facilities at the entrance. At the salar, you’ll follow a 45-minute trail in one direction. Personally, I think the trail should go the opposite way so you can admire the stunning mountains and landscapes while walking. Still, the vibrant color contrasts here are incredible, with shades of yellow, brown, gray, and blue.
Nearby, Piedras Rojas (Red Rocks) offers a surreal, rust-colored terrain against the backdrop of turquoise lagoons and snow-capped mountains. When we visited, it was very windy and cold due to the high altitude, so dress warmly.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
- Book Your Tickets in Advance – Many sites like Lagunas Altiplánicas, Salar de Aguas Calientes, and Piedras Rojas require online reservations. Without them, you might miss out.
- Stick to the Itinerary Order – You must visit attractions like Lagunas Altiplánicas and Piedras Rojas in the order listed on your ticket.
- Collect Your Tickets in Socaire – You’ll need to pick up tickets for Lagunas Altiplánicas and Piedras Rojas in Socaire, about 1 hour 10 minutes from San Pedro de Atacama.
- Bring Food and Water – There are no places to buy food or water after Socaire, so make sure you’re well-stocked for the day.
Laguna Chaxa: Flamingo Paradise
On our way back to San Pedro de Atacama, we stopped at Laguna Chaxa. Visiting Laguna Chaxa requires online ticketing at it costs around 10-11 EUR/USD per person.
This lagoon is home to three flamingo species, who feast on the abundant shrimp that thrive in its waters. If you’re not a big fan of flamingos, you can skip this lake, but if you enjoy wildlife, you’ll see plenty here.
Most people and tours prefer to visit early in the morning to catch the reflection of the colors on the lake. Along the way, we also saw plenty of vicuñas and even a few wild donkeys.
Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley): My Hidden Favorite
Valle de la Muerte, also known as the “Dead Valley,” is located near San Pedro de Atacama, on the way to Calama. It’s not the most famous attraction and isn’t included in all tours, so we were hesitant to visit. But luckily, we did—and it turned out to be one of my favorite spots in San Pedro de Atacama!
This amazing place is easily accessible by foot, bicycle, or car, with different entrance fees and hours. Here’s what you need to know:
Access Options
On foot: It’s very close–just 3 km from San Pedro de Atacama town, which takes about half an hour to reach on foot. Bring plenty of water, as there’s none available at the entrance. Also, avoid visiting at midday, especially in summer, as the sun can be intense.
By bicycle: Some parts of the trail are sandy, making it difficult to ride. Be prepared to walk a long stretch if needed.
By car: Without a 4×4 vehicle, we got stuck in the sand at one point. Like true sun lovers, our timing wasn’t ideal – visiting at midday was scorching hot. It was a bit of a panic moment, but thankfully, we were close enough to the entrance to get help easily.
Two Different Entrances
We noticed that some people call it Valle de la Muerte, while others refer to it as Valle de la Marte. Was it a spelling mistake? Maybe not! This site has two different entry points.
First Entrance: Valle de la Muerte (Closer to San Pedro de Atacama)
Has a ticket office where you can buy a pass on-site. No need for online reservations–finally, a hassle-free place to visit! After purchasing your ticket, enjoy a 10-minute scenic drive to the parking lot. From the parking lot, a short uphill walk leads to the viewpoint, where you’ll find toilet facilities (open until 7 PM). Many private tours bring visitors here for sunset—but they enter from the second entrance, which is free.
Second Entrance: Valle de la Marte (Free, but View-Only)
Follow the road to Calama, and on the right, look for the sign “Valle de la Marte.” After a 10-minute drive, you’ll arrive at a stunning scenic viewpoint. A great option if you just want to enjoy the view without trekking.
Downside: Not ideal for sunset viewing, as the viewpoint faces away from the sun. On foot? Not recommended. You’d have to walk along the highway, which can be dangerous. By bike? Possible if you’re fit! But keep in mind that the road is an uphill climb.
Near the viewpoint, a charismatic local woman keeps watch over the area and sells a small selection of drinks—perfect for a quick refreshment!
When to Visit Valle de la Muerte
It’s best to visit after Valle de la Luna, as you can end your adventure by walking on the dunes. I’d recommend coming here as a final stop during your stay in the Atacama Desert.
Often underrated compared to Valle de la Luna, Valle de la Muerte offers a unique thrill—walking on giant dunes, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, or even trying sandboarding down the slopes!
We made the mistake of visiting at midday, like true sun lovers. It was scorching hot, and walking after the parking lot was exhausting. But the upside? We had the dunes all to ourselves! No footprints in sight—perfect for capturing stunning photos.
A few days later, while searching for a free sunset spot, we returned via the second entrance (Valle de la Marte). This time, the area was packed with tour buses and private groups. While the view was still amazing, it didn’t face the sunset directly—so it’s not the best place to watch the sun go down.
If you love adventure, enter through the first entrance to experience the trek and the thrill of running, walking, or rolling down the dunes. But if you’re just here for the view, skip the ticket and head to the second entrance. Either way, Valle de la Muerte is a must-visit in San Pedro de Atacama!
Puritama Hot Springs: Desert Oasis
Surrounded by lush green vegetation in the middle of an arid valley in the Atacama Desert, its 8 crystal-clear thermal pools and cascading waterfalls create a dreamy atmosphere. While I’m not usually a fan of hot springs—they often leave me feeling heavy—Puritama is an exception. The small, shallow pools are safe and relaxing, and the desert setting makes it truly unique.
Practical Information
Operating Hours: Puritama Hot Spring operates in two daily sessions, closing between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM. We arrived around 12:30 PM, just before the midday break, and had most of the pools to ourselves.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is 35,000 CLP (approximately 35 EUR/USD) per person.
Access: After parking, it’s a 500-meter (10-minute) walk down a ramp to reach the springs, which are located at an altitude of 3,580 meters. The walk back up can be a bit challenging, especially after soaking in the warm waters, but a shuttle service (usually a jeep) is available to help.
Tips for Visiting
- Bring sleepers and a towel (they’re not provided, but you’ll dry quickly in the desert heat)
- Changing rooms, bathrooms, and a small coffee bar are available on-site
- Arrive early or during quieter hours for a more peaceful experience
Where to Stay in Atacama Desert
San Pedro de Atacama is the most convenient base by far for exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. For a comfortable and convenient stay, I highly recommend Hostal Casa Los Duendes, simple yet clean and comfortable homestay with a 15-minute walk to the town center. We appreciated its great price-quality ratio and spacious parking area, which made our stay hassle-free.
Why San Pedro de Atacama is Perfect
San Pedro is a small, charming town with everything you need within walking distance: shops, restaurants, tour operators, and the main plaza. The fact that cars are not allowed in the town center adds to the charm but makes parking more difficult. If you’re going to rent a car, ask your hotel if they offer parking because street parking is difficult with all the 4x4s used for desert tours.
Accommodation Options
From luxury lodges to budget-friendly options, San Pedro has something for everyone:
- Budget-friendly: Hostal Casa Los Duendes (our choice) or Hostal Hara
- Mid-range: If you prefer to spend a little more but stay very close to the center, take a look at the Terrantai Lodge or Hotel Desertico
Pro tip: Book ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, to snag the best spots in this charming desert town!
Where to Eat in Atacama Desert: Best Restaurants in San Pedro de Atacama
After exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Atacama, you’ll work up quite an appetite! San Pedro de Atacama restaurants offer everything from traditional Chilean cuisine to international options, most featuring that signature Bavarian beer garden style with covered patios, fire pits, and cozy atmospheres.
Best Breakfast Spots in San Pedro de Atacama
FRANCHUTERIA – This charming French-style bakery became our go-to morning ritual! Located in a traditional building with serene atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to start your Atacama adventure. They serve high-quality coffee alongside freshly baked pastries, and the tranquil setting helps you gear up for a day of desert exploration. Pro tip: They also transform into a cozy bistro in the evenings, making it a versatile dining option throughout your stay.
Salon De Té O2 – For a quick lunch on the main street, this spot delivers! We loved their freshly baked empanadas and recommendable quiche—perfect fuel for afternoon excursions. Their homemade cakes are also worth trying if you have a sweet tooth. The location makes it convenient for grabbing food between Valle de la Luna visits or shopping for souvenirs.
Best Dinner Restaurants in Atacama Desert
Casona Restaurant – This is where the magic happens! While they have a beautiful garden area, request seating in the historical sala instead—the indoor atmosphere is absolutely suggestive and atmospheric. The traditional architecture and historic ambiance make dining here feel like stepping back in time. Fair warning: The service can be really slow, but the setting is worth the wait. They also feature that signature huge covered garden with fire pits that’s common in San Pedro restaurants.
Adobe Restaurant – If you prefer a cozier garden setting, Adobe is your best bet. Their covered patio feels more intimate than other spots, though still maintains that traditional Atacama restaurant style with fire pits and rustic charm. The food quality matches the ambiance, making it perfect for a relaxed evening after a day of exploring salt flats and lagoons.
Barros Restaurant – We had a quick dinner here before our stargazing tour, and it turned out to be quite the discovery! Not only do they serve solid traditional meals, but they also offer local Atacama desert wine—yes, grapes actually grow in the Atacama Desert! They even organize wine tours if you’re interested. Honest review: The local wine tastes like a fresh farmhouse wine and honestly can’t compete with what we experienced in Casablanca Valley, but it’s a unique taste of the desert terroir worth trying.
Essential Food Tips for Atacama Desert Excursions
Stock Up Before Excursions – For full-day trips to Altiplano attractions like Lagunas Altiplánicas and Piedras Rojas, there are absolutely no places to eat once you leave San Pedro. We learned to purchase ready empanadas and fresh fruit from the local supermarket before heading out. Trust me: You don’t want to be hungry at 4,200 meters altitude with no food or water options!
Outside San Pedro = No Food or Drink Options – Other than San Pedro town center, finding restaurants in the Atacama Desert is practically impossible. Even in Socaire (where you collect tickets for the altoplanic lagoons), options are extremely limited. Plan accordingly and always carry snacks during desert excursions.
Atacama Restaurant Culture: What to Expect
Most San Pedro de Atacama restaurants follow a similar concept: grand covered gardens in that distinctive Bavarian beer garden style, complete with fire pits (fogón), live music, and often big TV screens. While this creates a lively, communal atmosphere, it can sometimes feel repetitive. Casona stands out with its beautiful historic colonial-style saloon in addition to the garden option—the indoor dining room offers an authentic traditional Chilean atmosphere that feels worlds away from the typical patio setup. Meanwhile, Adobe’s garden setting feels more intimate despite its size, and bonus points for much faster service than Casona—you won’t be waiting ages for your meal after a long day exploring the desert!
Chile has plenty of things to see! Be sure to check out my other Chile travel guides for expert tips and itinerary ideas before your adventure!
Read more about exploring Santiago and its surroundings in our comprehensive Santiago de Chile City and Around Guide,
discover the best of Patagonia travel in our complete Patagonia Chile: Torres del Paine & Puerto Natales Travel Guide Patagonia Travel Guide,
and learn how to travel to Easter Island on a budget while uncovering the secrets of Rapa Nui in our detailed Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Budget Travel Guide.
Each destination offers unique experiences that will make your Chile itinerary unforgettable!
