Bus Tours San Pedro De Atacama

Bus Tours in San Pedro de Atacameña

Welcome to San Pedro de Atacama, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth! To fully explore this unique region, consider taking bus tours that cater to various interests. Here’s some useful information for your upcoming visit:

  1. Tours to Atacama’s Natural Wonders

    • Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley): A must-visit destination in San Pedro, Valle de la Luna offers breathtaking landscapes of sand dunes, caves, and rock formations, best viewed at sunset. Tours usually include a stop at Hidden Oasis (Ojos del Salar), where you can see water pools filled with briny water.
    • Toconao: This picturesque village is home to the Kila-Vizcaino volcano and the Church of San Bartolome, one of the oldest in the area. Be sure to visit the Toco Volcanic Complex nearby for stunning views of the Atacama landscape.
    • Tatio Geysers (El Tatio): The world’s highest geothermal field is an early morning adventure not to be missed! Watch as geysers burst with steam, creating a surreal and captivating sight. Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop below freezing at this altitude.

  2. Archaeological Tours

    • Pukara de Quitor: Visit this Inca fortress for an insight into the pre-Columbian cultures that once inhabited the Atacama Desert. The site offers stunning panoramic views of San Pedro and the surrounding landscapes.
    • Churchill (Tierra Amarilla): Learn about the violent Chilean Rebellion of 1879 in this historic village, featuring an impressive church and museum dedicated to the events that took place here.

  3. Salt Flats Tours

    • Salar de Arizaro: This massive salt flat offers a surreal landscape of white expanses and blue skies. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals like Vicuñas, as well as unique rock formations.
    • Salar de Uyuni (Border Tour): Although technically located in Bolivia, this tour allows you to visit the Bolivian salt flat from San Pedro. Witness the mesmerizing Mirror of Water (when water is present), and explore the incredible Isla Incahuasi.

  4. Tips for Bus Tours

    • Pack appropriately: Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly during the day. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
    • Book ahead: Many tours fill up quickly, so be sure to book your preferred tour in advance to ensure availability.
    • Check weather conditions: The Atacama Desert is prone to strong winds and sandstorms, so always check the forecast before heading out on a tour.
    • Respect local customs and environment: Remember that you are a guest in this beautiful region. Practice leave-no-trace principles and respect local customs when interacting with communities during your tours.

Enjoy your bus tour adventures in San Pedro de Atacama, and discover the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultures that make this destination truly unforgettable!