The first tour my wife and I took was a Valparaiso area day tour with Victor and Jana. The day felt like an enchanting dream, with lots of memories being made as we cruised through this very special place. We are very capable travelers, but nobody knows the people and it’s landscape like the people who live there.
Read more
Absolute Desert: Pampa del Tamarugal
Discover Northern Chile: Deserts, Salt Flats and Forgotten Ghost Towns
Ready to take a journey through northern Chile’s cultural and natural heritage? This 5-day guided tour through the Pampa del Tamarugal will have you discover the best this region has to offer. You’ll witness dramatic collisions of desert and sea, explore an industrial ghost town that once homed thousands, and walk among an ancient valley carved with geoglyphs left by the region’s earliest inhabitants. Your boots will traverse vast salt flats, desert oases, and carry you to Laguna Roja, a high-altitude red lagoon steeped in local legend and a place where few others venture.
Between each adventure, rest and recharge at El Huarango, a solar-powered eco-lodge nestled in a peaceful desert oasis. Enjoy local meals prepared in solar ovens, and unwind in rock-salt cabins underneath a sky full of stars.
What You'll See
Click the Tabs to Learn More
Trip Details
Trip Details
Price
950 USD p.p
Departure Time
9AM
Meeting Point
Iquique Airport or Eco Lodge el Huarango
Availability
24/7 all year round
Duration
5 Days
Group Size
Min 2 | Max 6
Participation Requirements
No Requirements
Easy hikes and stops for all levels
Included
- Housing
- Food and Snacks
- Tours with local specialists
- All entrance fees
Not Included
- Travel Insurance
- Special Needs during the stay, not mentioned above
What to Bring
- Sun Block
- Sun Glasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Warm clothing for the night and early morning
- Light clothing for the day
Number & type of staff for tour
Victor and another Guide, depending on language skills needed will accompany the group on the tour
Itinerary Highlights
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Chile’s Pampa del Tamarugal. This 5-day adventure takes you to iconic sites, hidden gems, and unique natural wonders.
Day 1: Arrive in Iquique, visit the historic Humberstone town, and enjoy a delicious dinner cooked in solar ovens at Eco Lodge El Huarango.
Day 2: Explore the Labyrinth of Pica and Saltflat El Huasco for a full day of adventure.
Day 3: Discover the Valley of Ariquilda, featuring Chile’s mysterious “Nasca lines,” geo-glyphs, and petroglyphs.
Day 4: Spend the day exploring the stunning Red Lagoon.
Day 5: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing.
Eco Lodge El Huarango:
- Relax in a sustainable and eco-friendly environment
- Savor local cuisine cooked in solar ovens
- Unwind under the stars in a tranquil setting
Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the Pampa del Tamarugal!
Region of Tarapacá: A Land of Contrasts
Located in northern Chile, the Region of Tarapacá is a vast and diverse territory that encompasses the Andes mountains, the Atacama Desert, and the Pacific coast. The Pampa del Tamarugal, a vast desert plain, is a key feature of this region.
Pampa del Tamarugal: A Desert Oasis
The Pampa del Tamarugal is a unique and breathtaking landscape, characterized by:
Desert expanses: Endless dunes and vast plains of sand and rock.
Oases and palm groves: Lush green havens that provide a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
Rich cultural heritage: The region is home to a rich cultural legacy, with evidence of ancient civilizations and their traditions.
Natural wonders: The Pampa del Tamarugal is dotted with natural wonders, including salt flats, lagoons, and unique geological formations.
Unique Features
Geo-glyphs and petroglyphs: The region is home to numerous ancient geo-glyphs and petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
Salar de Huasco: A stunning salt flat that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Valley of Ariquilda: A scenic valley featuring ancient geo-glyphs and petroglyphs.
A Region of Adventure and Discovery
The Region of Tarapacá, with its unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure and discovery. From exploring the Pampa del Tamarugal’s vast desert expanses to discovering the region’s ancient traditions and natural wonders, this region is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
Duration: 5 days/4 nights
Destination: Pampa del Tamarugal, northern Chile
Accommodation: Eco Lodge El Huarango (4 nights)
Activities:
– Visiting Humberstone town
– Labyrinth of Pica and Saltflat El Huasco
– Valley of Ariquilda (geo-glyphs and petroglyphs)
– Red Lagoon
Meals: Dinner on Day 1, full-day adventures with meals on Days 2-4, and breakfast all days
Transportation: Private transportation from Iquique Airport to Eco Lodge El Huarango and throughout the tour
Highlights:
– Unique landscapes and natural wonders
– Sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation
– Delicious local cuisine cooked in solar ovens
Important Details:
Weather: Northern Chile’s desert climate can be hot during the day and cool at night. Be prepared with suitable clothing and sun protection.
Physical Activity: Moderate physical activity is required for hiking and exploring. Good health and mobility are recommended.
Language: Spanish is the primary language, but English-speaking guides may be available.
What to Expect:
– A mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation in a unique and breathtaking environment
– Opportunities to learn about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife
– Delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality at Eco Lodge El Huarango
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Pampa del Tamarugal?
FAQ
The whole year round – all year its hot and sunny during the day and fresh during the night. Desert climate.
Lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and warm layers for cooler evenings.
Some activities may require moderate physical effort. Please consult with us if you have specific mobility concerns.
Local Chilean cuisine, often cooked in solar ovens, using fresh and sustainable ingredients.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly. However, please consider the physical demands and suitability for children.
Eco Lodge El Huarango offers sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation with basic amenities.
Yes, private tours can be arranged. Please contact us for more information.
We will work with you to find alternative activities or adjust the itinerary to ensure a great experience.
Have more questions? Feel free to ask, and we’ll be happy to help!
My wife and I have traveled a lot in the last years and visited all the continents. In the process we have tried many different day trips, and I have to say Jana and Victor gave us the absolutely best experience. We celebrated our five-year anniversary, and Jana and Victor gave us an extra sparking wine tasting as a present on the way back.
Read more
Victor is a great driver and Jana is absolutely lovely – both are so helpful and made everything go so smoothly for us. We would absolutely book tours again through Turismo Flecha Extrema and would strongly recommend them to everyone!
Read more


