Authentic Atacama Expedition

• Morning: Arrival in Copiapó. We leave civilization behind and head up into the rugged Chilean Himalayas in our specialized 4×4 vehicles.
• Afternoon: Arrival at our comfortable Andean Glamping Camp at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Time to acclimate to the thin mountain air with a warm cup of local tea.
• Evening: As the sun dips below the peaks, we experience an epic Golden Hour with up to 300 km of panoramic views across the Andean chain.
• Night: Welcome to one of the darkest places on the planet (Bortle Class 1). Look up to see the Milky Way and the Magellanic Clouds with an intensity you will never forget.

• Early Morning: Drive to Laguna Verde at 4,300 meters. We witness the Blue Hour and the sunrise as the first light throws a magnificent alpine glow onto the massive Ojos del Salado volcano.
• Daytime: Exploring the shores of the turquoise lagoon, which is framed like a mirror by snow-capped volcanoes. Time for walking, breathing deeply, and soaking in the absolute silence.
• Afternoon & Evening: Return to camp. Relax and watch the shifting colors of the sky right from the comfort of your tent.

• Daytime: A full-day excursion to Salar de Gorbea. This salt flat is a geological marvel: sulfur, iron, and copper have transformed the crust into a surrealist painting of toxic green, rust red, and ochre yellow.
• Afternoon: We take our time to observe the bizarre salt crystals and mineral formations up close, enjoying the eerie stillness of this primordial landscape.
• Evening: Gathering at the camp for dinner, accompanied by fine Chilean wine under a dazzling canopy of stars.

• Morning: One last, unforgettable sunrise in the high peaks.
• Afternoon: Descent back to Copiapó. Free time to stretch your legs, explore the town, and enjoy a local dinner.
• Night: Comfortable journey on a modern overnight bus along the coast to Iquique (an excellent, authentic way to travel the country like a local).

• Morning: Wake up in Iquique, where the massive sand dunes of the Atacama drop straight into the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy breakfast by the sea before heading inland into the desert.
• Afternoon: We enter the Pampa del Tamarugal, a vast expanse where gnarled Tamarugo trees stand as the only vertical lines defying the endless drought, casting long shadows in the afternoon sun.
• Late Afternoon: Arrival at El Huarango Eco Lodge. This award-winning, eco-friendly retreat is built entirely from local materials and runs on solar power, offering a peaceful oasis far from mass tourism.
• Evening: First dinner at the lodge featuring fresh, regionally sourced ingredients.

• Morning: A day trip takes us up to Salar del Huasco. This pristine, high-altitude salt flat is a true wildlife sanctuary. We will observe flocks of pink flamingos wading through the glassy water against a backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes.
• Afternoon: On our way back, we stop at the nearby Pica Oasis. We stroll past lush palms and fruit orchards that provide a fascinating contrast to the barren desert, followed by a visit to the refreshing thermal pools.
• Evening: Return to El Huarango Eco Lodge. Enjoy a cold drink on the terrace and listen to the gentle desert wind rustling through the trees.

• Full Day: Today brings a true highlight—an adventurous, full-day expedition to the deeply remote Laguna Roja (Red Lagoon). The water is naturally colored a deep burgundy red by unique algae and sediments. Right next to it lie its yellow and green sister lagoons, creating an unbelievable natural spectacle.
• Evening: After a scenic drive through spectacular landscapes, we return for our final night at El Huarango Eco Lodge to reflect on the overwhelming impressions of the past few days under the starry sky.

• Early Morning: Drive to Salar de Surire during the cool morning mist. We look out for wild vicuñas (the elegant relatives of the alpaca) and rheas roaming free.
• Midday: Explore the steaming geyser fields at the edge of the salt flat. The harsh midday light perfectly carves out the sharp textures of the salt and sulfur formations.
• Afternoon: Continue our journey to the high-altitude mountain village of Putre.

• Morning: Drive to Lago Chungará at 4,500 meters, one of the highest lakes in the world. The perfectly shaped, snow-covered Parinacota volcano reflects flawlessly in the crystal-clear water while the sunrise explodes in shades of pink and orange.
• Afternoon: Explore Putre. We wander through the steep alleys lined with historic adobe churches and experience the unhurried, authentic rhythms of Andean daily life.

• Daytime: Excursion to Suriplaza, a high plateau famous for its intensely colored, almost purple mountains and absolute solitude. Here, the silence has its own texture. We hike past abandoned grazing grounds and ancient stone circles while clouds race across the valley.
• Evening: Final night in the mountains of Putre.

• Morning: We leave the highlands behind and descend toward the coast to Arica, the “City of Eternal Spring.”
• Afternoon: In the Lluta Valley, we marvel at the massive, centuries-old geoglyphs carved into the desert hillsides by pre-Columbian cultures.
• Evening: We climb the historic Morro de Arica cliff to watch the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean. Farewell dinner featuring fresh local seafood.

• Morning: A final stroll to the port of Arica, where sea lions and giant pelicans wait for the fishing boats in the warm morning light.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Arica Airport for your individual flight home or onward journey.

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.