A few words about Norhtern Chile
Northern Chile is a diverse region characterized by stunning landscapes, from the arid Atacama Desert to the rugged Andes mountains. North and the Atacama Desert is among the driest parts of the world. It includes the regions of Arica-Parinacota, Tarapacá, Antofagasta, Atacama and Coquimbo.
Atacama Desert
San Pedro de Atacama: This charming town is the gateway to the Atacama Desert, known for its surreal landscapes, salt flats, and geysers. Popular activities include visiting Valle de la Luna, exploring the El Tatio geysers, and stargazing in one of the clearest skies on Earth.
Salt Flats: The Salar de Atacama is one of the largest salt flats in Chile, featuring unique geological formations and wildlife, including flamingos.
Coastal Towns
Iquique: A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and a thriving surf scene. The nearby Humberstone and Santa María saltpeter works are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect the region’s mining history.
Pica: A small oasis town famous for its fruits, particularly lemons and dates, and its hot springs.
Andes Mountains
High-altitude Adventures: The northern region offers incredible opportunities for trekking, skiing (in places like Valle Nevado), and exploring remote high-altitude lagoons such as the Miscanti and Miñiques.
Cultural Heritage
Indigenous Cultures: The area is home to various indigenous communities, including the Aymara and Diaguita, with rich traditions and histories.
Archaeological Sites: Explore ancient ruins, such as the Pukará de Quitor and the pre-Columbian structures at Tiwanaku.
Astronomy
The region is known for its observatories, taking advantage of the clear skies. Places like the ALMA Observatory are at the forefront of astronomical research.
Northern Chile offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination.
In Northern Chile
ARICA TO PUTRE A three hour ́s drive, Putre itself is not the highlight however east along the road towards Bolivia, Lauca national park is one of the easiest of these off-the-beaten-trail places to visit.
PARINACOTA
Lago Chungará, a huge lake and one of the most beautiful in South America, at 4.517m above
sea level, squirms with Andean birdlife and sits in the looming shadow of Parinacota volcano.
HUASCO VALLEY
Stands out for the large number of small towns and agricultural villages in the area. Known as
the garden of Atacama, a visit is well worth it.
SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA
Explore the area’s many attractions: active geysers, lagoons that stand out for their intense
colours, and dazzling salt flats. Enjoy the Moon ́s Valley or cycle through the desert. Once night
falls, what better way to enjoy the infinite stars twinkling over the driest desert in the world!
ELQUI VALLEY
One of the most important valleys in Chile, noted for the production of Syrah and Carmenere
wines. Enjoy the Elqui valley to the fullest: hiking trails, horseback riding, biking trails, jeep
tours and the stars where you will find the first International Dark Skies Sanctuary in the
World.
BAHIA INGLESA
If water sports are for you, then enjoy this quiet and white sands beach, bringing your
kitesurfing equipment. For land activities, not to be missed is the blooming desert during the
spring.
San Pedro de Atacama
