The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is home to some of the most captivating natural wonders on the planet. From the surreal landscapes of the Valley of the Moon to the stunning salt flats and vibrant lagoons along the Route of the Salares, this region offers a truly unforgettable exploration of nature’s raw beauty. And that’s just the start – the Geyser Del Tatio and the tranquil turquoise pools of Baltinache provide even more reasons to discover this remarkable corner of Chile. Whether you’re drawn to the area’s geological marvels or simply seeking an awe-inspiring adventure, this tour promises an experience you won’t soon forget.
Good To Know
- The tour covers four main attractions in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: Valley of the Moon, Route of the Salares, Geyser del Tatio, and Baltinache.
- The tour is operated by Molantur and costs $300.00 per group (up to 1 person), with entrance fees to the attractions paid separately.
- The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and transportation to the attractions, which are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- The tour offers a comprehensive experience of the unique geological formations, salt flats, and geothermal features of the Atacama Desert.
- The tour has received 9 reviews with a 4.5-star rating, providing a high-quality and memorable experience for visitors.
Tour Overview
The tour encompasses a visit to the Valley of the Moon, the Route of the Salares, the Geyser del Tatio, and the Baltinache.
It’s based in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile and operated by Molantur.
The tour costs $300.00 per group (up to 1 person) and has received 9 reviews with a 4.5-star rating.
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks, but entrance fees to the attractions are extra.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Pedro de Atacama.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks for the participants.
However, the entrance fees to the Geyser del Tatio ($15,000 CLP), Baltinache ($10,000 CLP), and Valle de la Luna ($12,000 CLP) aren’t included in the tour price. Travelers will need to pay these fees separately upon arrival at each location.
The tour operator, Molantur, provides all necessary transportation and ensures the group has access to these iconic attractions in the San Pedro de Atacama region.
Participants can expect a comprehensive experience exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the Valley of the Moon, Route of the Salares, and more.
Meeting and Pickup Details
For the Valley of the Moon experience, participants meet at the agency at 15:00. Those visiting Baltinache will meet at the agency at 13:30. Pickup points can be selected during the booking process. The following table provides the meeting details:
Destination | Meeting Time | Meeting Point |
---|---|---|
Valle de la Luna | 15:00 | Agency |
Baltinache | 13:30 | Agency |
Pickup Points | Selected during booking | – |
The tour accommodates most travelers, with a maximum of 10 participants per group. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is available for the transportation.
Accessibility
According to the tour information, the transportation provided for this experience is wheelchair accessible.
Strollers are also permitted, making the tour accessible for families with young children.
The maximum number of travelers per tour is 10, allowing for a more personalized and manageable group size.
Most travelers can participate in this tour, which covers the Valley of the Moon, Route of the Salares, Geyser Del Tatio, and Baltinache.
The transportation and group size cater to a wide range of travelers, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience throughout the tour.
Booking Information
Travelers receive confirmation of their booking at the time of reservation. The tour offers flexible cancellation, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides guests with peace of mind when planning their trip.
Booking Information | |
---|---|
Confirmation | Received at time of booking |
Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience starts (local time) |
The clear booking and cancellation details make it easy for travelers to plan and manage their excursion to the Valley of the Moon, Route of the Salares, Geyser Del Tatio, and Baltinache.
- Multi-Day Tour in San Pedro De Atacama With Pickup
- Red Stones + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar De Atacama
- Astronomical Tour Under the Atacama Night
- Small-Group Tour to Moon Valley From San Pedro De Atacama
- Astronomical Tour With Guide and Pick up San Pedro De Atacama
- Full Day Tour to Geyser Del Tatio, Vado Putana and Machuca
Exploring the Valley of the Moon
One of the highlights of the tour is exploring the otherworldly landscapes of the Valley of the Moon.
This unique geological formation, located just outside of San Pedro de Atacama, is a must-see during the tour. Visitors will be amazed by the dramatic sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and vibrant colors that paint the valley.
The tour includes a guided walk through this lunar-like terrain, providing an opportunity to learn about the area’s geology and history.
With its stark beauty and remarkable features, the Valley of the Moon offers a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Traversing the Route of the Salares
After traversing the otherworldly landscapes of the Valley of the Moon, the tour then ventures along the Route of the Salares, a winding road that cuts through the heart of the Atacama Desert. This scenic drive showcases a series of salt flats, where the arid landscape is punctuated by shimmering white expanses and vibrant lagoons teeming with flamingos. The journey is a feast for the senses, with the salt-crusted terrain contrasting against the brilliant blue sky and rugged mountain backdrops. Travelers have the opportunity to stop and explore these unique geological formations, truly seeing the raw, untamed beauty of the Atacama.
Highlights | Duration |
---|---|
Salt Flats | 1-2 hours |
Flamingo Lagoons | 30 minutes |
Mountain Vistas | Throughout |
Geological Formations | Flexible |
Experiencing the Geyser Del Tatio and Baltinache
Exiting the Route of the Salares, the tour continues its exploration of the Atacama Desert’s wonders with visits to the iconic Geyser del Tatio and the serene Baltinache.
At an elevation of over 4,300 meters, the Geyser del Tatio is one of the world’s highest geothermal fields, where dozens of geysers and hot springs erupt in a stunning display.
After this stunning sight, the tour moves on to the tranquil Baltinache, a series of turquoise lagoons surrounded by salt deposits, offering a peaceful respite from the desert’s rugged landscapes.
Both sites provide a unique insight into the Atacama’s diverse geological features and the region’s raw, untamed beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit This Tour?
The best time to visit this tour is typically during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This allows for optimal weather conditions and accessibility to the various sites on the itinerary.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour includes a moderate amount of walking. Most travelers can participate, though the maximum group size is limited to 10 people. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility is provided for the transportation portion of the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions – most travelers can participate. However, the maximum group size is 10 people, so families with young children may want to consider that when booking.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Participants are welcome to bring their own additional snacks and drinks if desired, as long as they don’t interfere with the provided meals.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?
According to the tour information, there are no discounts mentioned for larger groups. The price is listed as a flat rate of $300 per group (up to 1 person). Larger groups may need to book multiple tours.
The Sum Up
The Atacama Desert in Chile offers a breathtaking exploration of nature’s wonders. From the surreal landscapes of the Valley of the Moon to the stunning salt flats and vibrant lagoons along the Route of the Salares, this tour showcases the region’s diverse geological treasures. Geyser Del Tatio and Baltinache further enchant visitors with their natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience in this remarkable desert destination.
More Tour Reviews in San Pedro de Atacama
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in San Pedro de Atacama we have reviewed
- 6 Best Guided Tours in San Pedro De Atacama
- 25 Best Tours in San Pedro De Atacama
- Secrets of the Desierto: Valley of the Moon and Discovery
- Small-Group Tour to Rainbow Valley
- 4 Tours to Discover Atacama (3 Days)
- 3-Days Private Guided Hiking Tour in Atacama
- 4-Days Trip to Discover San Pedro De Atacama
- Small-Group Tour to Laguna Cejar, Ojos Del Salar and Laguna Tebinquinche
- Lagoons in Atacama Salt Flat – Half Day – Typical Tour – San Pedro De Atacama
- Baltinache Hidden Lagoons in Atacama
- Journey Through the Salt Flats
- 3 Main Tours in San Pedo De Atacama