Highlights of Chile
An all-encompassing highlights tour of Chile, taking in some of our favourite sights and staying in some of our favourite properties! Perfect for a first time visitor looking to indulge and see the best of this fantastic country.
Top 5 things to do in the Atacama Desert
At 2,500m, the Atacama Desert is both the driest and highest desert on earth. In this harsh, often eerie, yet starkly beautiful desert landscape there is a lot of sunshine, and although the temperature drops below zero at night, generally the year-round climate is pleasant and the transparency of light, unique. The mixture of volcanoes, salt flats and high altitude wetlands is unparalleled. With so much diversity in this small part of Chile, the excursions on offer are endless. We’ve whittled down our top five must-do excursions…
These activities are only just the beginning, call the Latin America team on 020 7622 1116 to find out what else you can experience in this starkly beautiful desert landscape, from hiking to mountain biking, horseback riding and more.
1. Soak in the Puritama Hot Springs
Hidden at the bottom of a steep sided gorge, surrounded by great natural beauty, the River Puritama has eight natural pools, with water which has an average temperature of 33°C at a height of 3500m above sea level. Enjoying a bath in these thermal waters in the heart of the desert is a very special experience; top it with drinks and nibbles provided on floating trays and it really is perfection!
2. Experience the Salar de Atacama
The Salar de Atacama is the largest salt-pan in Chile. The Salar contains many smaller lakes, including Laguna Chaxa which is home to a large number of flamingos (three different types of flamingo are found here). The views of the Andes as the sun sets are truly amazing.
3. Enjoy the world’s best stargazing
The Atacama, with its clear crisp nights and clean air, offers the perfect window into the Universe. With its dazzling mass of stars and clearly defined constellations, the Atacama Desert is hands down one of the best places in the world to stargaze.
4. Tuck into a picnic at the Valley of the Moon
The Valley of the Moon, surrounded by small hills with impressively sharp peaks, will transport you to another world. Appreciate the surreal beauty of the landscape from many viewpoints in the Salt Mountain Range, taking in the scenery of Death Valley and the Andes mountain range as well. Explore these impressive geological formations by foot and enjoy a picnic in the unique surroundings.
5. Marvel at El Tatio
El Tatio is the world’s highest substantial geyser field at 4,321m. The geothermal field has close links to the volcanic activity in the zone and consists of huge steam columns which reach heights of 12 metres. Intense sulphur odours and pools of boiling water and mud make this place seem like the initiation of life. To see these geysers in their full glory it’ll be an early and very chilly start, but it is definitely worth it!
Feeling inspired? Have a look at our favourite holiday ideas that include time exploring the Atacama Desert:
Highlights of Chile
An all-encompassing highlights tour of Chile, taking in some of our favourite sights and staying in some of our favourite properties! Perfect for a first time visitor looking to indulge and see the best of this fantastic country.
Active Chile
Combining luxury with outdoor adventure, this itinerary takes you on a journey to some of Chile's unmissable highlights. Perfect for those who love being active, dramatic landscapes and indulging in the finest luxury.