In the North of Chile you’ll find one of the driest places on earth, the Atacama Desert. This vast desert is renowned for having the clearest skies in the world, it’s one of the best locations on earth for stargazing.
Many super observatories have been set up in this area, it’s a haven for astronomy lovers and anyone who can appreciate a magical starry night.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Atacama Desert is between April to October. During these months the weather is at its best, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.
In these cooler months, it’s an ideal time for stargazing, with less chance of rain the skies will likely be more clear, creating the perfect setting for nighttime excursions chasing the stars.
Perhaps you want to witness the rare phenomenon of the desert in bloom, where the rain brings a burst of colours and a full flowering desert. This is a called a Superbloom and it’s actually really rare, it happens every 5-10 years and the best time to see it, is between September and November.
If the stars align and you manage to catch this rare magical display from mother nature, it would make a life lasting impression that’s for sure.
How to Get There
Depending on where you are travelling from, there’s a couple of convenient ways to arrive in these mystical lands. We travelled from Uyuni in Bolivia, and a night bus was the most affordable option. Below, we will give you the low down on a couple of options for you to choose from.
By Air
If you’re situated near a big city, then you may want to consider flying to Atacama, Skyscanner is a great tool to help you find the cheapest flights for your trip and it will highlight the cheapest days to fly.
There’s a direct flight from Santiago, and in less than two hours you’ll land in Aeropuerto de Antofagasta Andrés Sabella, from here you have a few options, either rent a car (book in advance in high season) grab a private transfer or hop on a bus which is the most cost effective way of reaching the desert. Either way you’ll be there in a few hours, give or take!
By Bus
A popular route is from Uyuni in Bolivia to Atacama and the most affordable option is via bus. It’s a day bus which makes a change from the usual night buses that operate in South America .
The bus takes around 12 hours including the boarder crossing into Chile and it’s extremely comfortable and incredibly scenic!
We recommend Cruz Del Norte and you can either buy the tickets online or head to the bus station and buy the tickets in person, it costs around $40 USD, bring cash as thats the only form of payment they accept.
The bus departs at 6am sharp , enjoy the scenic views from the window and you’ll have many opportunities to stretch those legs along the way as it stops quite frequently.
Where to Stay
San Pedro de Atacama is the gateway town to the Atacama Desert. There are so many dreamy places to stay in San Pedro de Atacama, and we personally recommend staying slightly out of the centre so you can admire the night sky from the comfort of your Hotel or Airbnb’s surroundings.
If you’re on a budget like us, then check out some of the local guesthouses or hostels, they all offer different options to suit every budget!
What to See and Do
This place is like an adventure paradise, if you’re an active person you will not be short of things to do and see!
Most people come here to admire the night sky with a billion shimmering stars lighting up the skies. Check out the best things to do and see during your visit:
Valley de la Luna
The Valley de la Luna national park is found in San Pedro De Atacama. This national park has been shaped by wind and water erosion over millions of years, the rocky features will give you a sense of what life on the moon would be like.
NASA has even tested mars rovers and other prototypes for space missions, this landscape has similarities between the Martian surface making it the perfect place for anyone preparing for a mission to mars!
Grab yourself a bike from San Pedro De Atacama, there are many places to rent a bike in town, the prices are around 6000CLP, make sure your bike comes with these items, bike helmet, tire replacement, air pump, a vest, a decent bike lock.
Some of these are mandatory due to having to cycle a bit on the highway, it is a good 8 mile cycle from the town. Make sure you bring lots of water and snacks and if the suns out wear a hat!
Los Flamencos National Reserve
Imagine seeing an array of beautiful flamingos basking in the desert sun, Los Flamencos National Reserve is home to several different species of flamingos.
You’ll get a chance to see these beautiful pink creatures up close surrounded by a stunning backdrop!
This massive national reserve spans over 740 square kilometres, home to some of the most unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife in the world.
Salar de Atacama
If you’re not sick of the sight of salt after visiting Uyuni, (if you missed it, have a read of our trip to Uyuni’s salt flats without a guide) check out Chiles largest salt flats. Formed by the evaporation of ancient lakes and rivers in the region left behind is an array of beautiful quality salt and other minerals.
The salt flats are surrounded by volcanoes and dramatic scenery, interestingly lithium is extracted here which are used for key components in electric vehicles, batteries and other technology.
There are concerns about the environmental impact this has on local ecosystems, programs are now in place to monitor the situation, we must protect our planet!
Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache
Situated at an altitude of 2300m above sea level, there’s 7 hidden lagoons waiting for you to discover.
The pools vivid blues and greens contrast perfectly with the surrounding mountains and volcanos.
The lagoons have similar salinity to the dead sea and you can take a dip in two of the lagoons. You’ll be floating effortlessly on the clear turquoise waters, close your eyes and take a deep breath, let the water carry your body and woes away.
Geysers del Tatio
Picture this, a roaring surge of water exploding from deep under the ground , this natural phenomenon is something every explorer should witness in their lifetime.
The best times to see the Geysers are in the morning between 5.30am and 7am, when the water can reach up to 10m, unreal! Be sure to wrap up warm as its bloody freezing at this ungodly hour.
Puritama Hot Springs
If you’re anything like us ,then you love a good old soak in a hot spring, Puritama is the perfect place to take the time to soak those aching muscles and relieve any stress you may have.
These hot springs are very enchanting, small waterfalls can be found throughout, theres different levels to explore which are connected by wooden walkways.
The temperature ranges between 25°C and 30°C, because of the minerals the water has healing and therapeutic properties, it will nourish your mind, body and soul.
On site you’ll find a cafeteria, dressing rooms, bathrooms and on the weekends they even offer massages!
ESO’s Paranal Observatory
The Atacama Desert is one of the best places on earth to view the wonders of the night sky. ESO’s Paranal Observatory is the top astronomical observation site.
It is home to the renowned Very Large telescope and other significant observation technology, these particular types of equipment have paved the way for extensive research and numerous discoveries like potential new planets.
Just imagine peeking through the worlds largest optical telescope and seeing the universe in all its glory and unlike any night sky in the world!
Were not talking about your average shooting star here, we’re talking full blown galaxies and Saturn’s heavenly ring.
The amazing thing is they actually offer FREE guided tours, you just have to make a reservation through the online form here.