Atacama Salt Flats Toconao Village
Duración: 4 Horas
Join us for an exhilarating journey as we delve into some of the desert's most captivating spots, including the Salar de Atacama and the Toconao Village, along with other hidden gems. Enjoy a delightful breakfast prepared by our guide, set against an unforgettable scenic backdrop. (Private Only)
Our adventure begins at the Salar de Atacama, a breathtaking location and the largest salt flat in Chile, ranking third worldwide. This area is encircled by towering mountains and volcanoes.
Amidst the salt flat, we will encounter one of the desert's largest salt lagoons, Laguna Chaxa, which hosts a variety of migratory birds, including the renowned Chilean Flamingo.
Our journey continues to the charming Toconao Village, situated just a few kilometers from the salt flat. With its cobblestone streets and adobe houses, Toconao exudes a rustic allure that stands in stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. We'll explore its well-known local handicrafts market and admire the Liparite Stone sculptures.
Next, we venture to our final, yet equally significant attraction: the Quebrada de Jere. This oasis in the desert features a small stream that winds through towering stone canyons and lush local vegetation. Additionally, it boasts a notable archaeological site with petroglyphs and pictographs.
This journey offers a remarkable chance to connect with the diverse landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama and to marvel at the grandeur of this secluded area of Chile.
We eagerly anticipate your visit. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!
From 188.518 ARS
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Descripción del Tour:
Today, we will embark on our journey from our hotel in San Pedro at around 7:00 a.m. to fully take advantage of our morning. We'll travel approximately 55 km to arrive at the Los Flamencos National Reserve Park, marking the beginning of this thrilling adventure through varied landscapes.
The first destination on our itinerary is the Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat and the third largest globally.
The vast white expanse stretches endlessly, offering a lunar landscape that stands in stark contrast to the vibrant blue sky and surrounding mountains. Here, we'll have the chance to stroll through the salt flat, admire the striking salt formations, and take in the expansive scenery.
Amidst the salt flat lies one of the desert's largest salt lagoons, Laguna Chaxa, a habitat for numerous migratory birds, including the renowned Chilean Flamingo, attracted by its high salt and nutrient content.
During our exploration, our guide will ensure we find the ideal spot with breathtaking postcard-perfect views to enjoy a delightful breakfast.
Following this restful pause, we will proceed to the Toconao Village, a charming town situated a few kilometers from the Salar de Atacama. Its cobblestone streets and adobe houses exude a rustic allure that contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape.
A highlight in Toconao is the Church of San Lucas, constructed in the 18th century and recognized as a National Monument. The village is also celebrated for its local crafts, particularly sculptures crafted from liparite stone, a type of volcanic rock.
We will immerse ourselves in the local culture before heading to our final, yet equally impressive, destination, La Quebrada de Jere, an oasis amidst the barren desert. Here, a small stream meanders through towering stone canyons and lush vegetation, including palm trees and carob trees.
This location is also a significant archaeological site, housing petroglyphs and pictographs that unveil 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 a chance to engage with the diversity of San Pedro de Atacama and admire the grandeur of this secluded part 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 to the Salar de Atacama and the picturesque town of Toconao typically includes transportation from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama, an experienced tour guide who will provide interesting information about the region, and guided tours of both the Salar de Atacama and the town of Toconao. Stops are also often included to admire the local flora and fauna, such as the pink flamingos in the salt lakes. The itinerary may vary depending on the tour operator, so it's advisable to confirm all details before booking.
The best time to visit the Salar de Atacama is during the southern hemisphere's spring and autumn, between September and November or March and May. These months offer more pleasant temperatures and clear skies, ideal for enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Although the climate is desert-like year-round, during these seasons, visitors avoid the extreme temperatures of summer or the colder temperatures of winter, ensuring a more pleasant experience while enjoying the natural wonders of the Chilean region.
For the excursion to the Salar de Atacama, it's recommended to dress in layers due to the desert's characteristic climatic variations. It can be hot during the day, but temperatures drop at night. It's recommended to bring a T-shirt, warm clothing, sunscreen, a cap or hat, sunglasses, and comfortable hiking shoes. Don't forget to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A camera is also essential to capture the stunning landscapes of the salt flat and the surroundings of the town of Toconao.
The excursion to the Salar de Atacama and the town of Toconao typically lasts about half a day, although some tours can be extended to a full day. Early morning departures are common to take advantage of the best light and weather conditions. During this time, participants have the opportunity to thoroughly explore one of the world's driest deserts, observe local wildlife, especially flamingos, and enjoy a relaxing tour of the quiet town of Toconao, known for its volcanic stone architecture.
No special preparation is required to visit the Salar de Atacama, but it is advisable to be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the planned activities and hikes. Since the excursions take place in a high-altitude desert environment, it is important to acclimatize properly, especially if you are coming from lower altitudes, to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Stay well hydrated, get plenty of rest, and consider bringing some snacks to maintain your energy levels while you enjoy the stunning Chilean desert scenery.