SAN PEDRO TO SALTA

Atacama Desert Crossing: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile to Salta, Argentina

The Atacama Desert and altiplano (high plain) of Northern Chile and Northwest Argentina provide some of the most geographically interesting landscapes and culturally rich regions in South America. A pre-Colombian history dates back thousands of years, and still lives on today in traditional artisan craft, festivals and renowned archaeological museums. Expansive salt flats, unique fauna, moon-like landscape, majestic sunsets and second-to-none stargazing bring new meaning to the phrase “natural wonders.”

STARTING AT

UPON REQUEST

7 Days

Overnight Options

Hábitat, Manantial del Silencio, Legado Mitico Salta, Legado Mitico Buenos Aires.

When to go

This trip is recommended any time of year.

TRIP PREVIEW

Day

01

Take the day to get settled and explore the picturesque community of San Pedro de Atacama, which stands as an oasis in the midst of the world’s driest desert.

Day

02

Start the day with a short ride into Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile. Watch flamingoes at Laguna Chaxa and visit the historically agricultural village of Toconao.

Day

03

Continue to meander through San Pedro to experience its rich cultural history. In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), aptly named for its seemingly lunar landscape.

Day

04

Meet the sunrise at 4,300 m above sea level as dozens of geysers burst forth from the ground in spectacular form. Stop to enjoy the Termas de Puritama, a group of eight therapeutic thermal pools hidden in a lush canyon.

Day

05

Arrive to Purmamarca, which means “desert city” or the “town of the virgin land.” Enjoy a free evening to settle into your hotel and stretch your legs after a long overland journey.

Day

06

Walk the streets of the culturally rich town of Tilcara, see remnants of early settlers and learn about their culture. Then visit La Garganta del Diablo (The Devil’s Throat), a red-rock gorge with several waterfalls.

Day

07

Following a leisurely breakfast, head to the charming town of Salta. Explore this provincial capital renowned for its colonial architecture, striking landscapes and rich cultural history.
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THE UPSCAPE DIFFERENCE

Upscape Access

Upscape Access

We’ve spent years developing a local network for you to have access to people, places that are hard (or impossible!) to find elsewhere.

Personal Guiding

Personal guiding

This trip is fully guided with a professional guide who is experienced in the topics this trip explores.

Travel Support

24/7 Travel Support

We provide complete travel planning support from the moment you contact us until after you arrive home, including 24/7 on-the-ground support during your trip.

Trip Moments

Go private

This trip has no set dates or groups. Contact us to tailor it to your schedule and interests.

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