Introduction Of Atacama Desert
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San Pedro de Atacama, alongside Patagonia, is one of Chile’s most famous tourist destinations. The Atacama Desert’s unique landscapes and arid climate make it a dream destination for many travelers.
I spent Christmas in San Pedro de Atacama and want to share my recommendations! This guide covers everything you need to know for your first visit to the Atacama Desert and San Pedro de Atacama.
How to Get to San Pedro de Atacama
Most visitors arrive either by flight to Calama Airport or from Bolivia after completing a Uyuni Salt Flats tour. Both options are viable, depending on your itinerary. Atacama Desert
If you fly into Calama, note that San Pedro de Atacama is about a 1.5-hour drive away. Calama itself has little to offer, so it’s best to continue directly to San Pedro. I rented a car in advance and picked it up upon arrival at the airport.
For those without a rental car, a shuttle service operates from Calama Airport to San Pedro. These shuttles run frequently and take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with a fixed fare of around 15,000 Chilean pesos ($18 USD). Booking in advance may result in a slightly higher price. I used TransVip for my transfer, and the journey was smooth.
How to Get Around in San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro is a popular tourist destination, and tours can be quite expensive, with three excursions easily costing between $150 and $200 USD. If you are traveling solo, joining a tour is the most practical option.
However, if you are traveling with others, renting a car is a cost-effective alternative. While there is a rental agency in San Pedro, it is not the most reliable, and booking online can be difficult. Instead, I recommend renting a car at Calama Airport, where vehicles are well-maintained, and major credit cards are accepted. Atacama Desert
For those renting a car, a mid-sized SUV is recommended due to occasional dirt roads. I rented a Volkswagen T-Cross, a comfortable non-4WD option. If budget permits, a 4WD vehicle allows for more off-road exploration. Be sure to check rental terms, as some companies prohibit driving on dirt roads.
Visiting Tourist Sites Independently
The Chilean tourism board has implemented restrictions at certain sites, requiring visitors to be part of a guided tour during specific hours. This measure may be aimed at protecting natural areas from mass tourism. Before heading to a site, ask your accommodation staff whether independent visits are allowed at that time. Atacama Desert
Top Tours in San Pedro de Atacama
If you prefer guided tours, here are three highly recommended options:
- 3-Day Activity Combo – A great-value package covering San Pedro’s top attractions.
- Valle de la Luna Sunset Tour – Experience the desert’s best light and stunning views.
- Piedras Rojas & Altiplanic Lagoons Tour – My personal favorite and a must-do experience.
Internet Connectivity in San Pedro de Atacama
While San Pedro offers many attractions, strong internet connectivity is not one of them. WiFi is often weak, and mobile data is more reliable. I purchased a Movistar SIM card in Santiago for 5,000 pesos, which provided 40GB of data for a month. The best connection is in town, where I had 5G coverage near shops and restaurants. Atacama Desert
Where to Stay in San Pedro de Atacama
I stayed at Hostal Campo Base, where the owner, Rodrigo, provides exceptional hospitality. The hostel offers excellent amenities, including potable water, hot showers, comfortable beds, and daily housekeeping. For those preferring private accommodations, options start at around $35 USD per night, with numerous choices available on Booking.com.
Food Recommendations for Road Trips
San Pedro has numerous restaurants where meals cost around 8,000 pesos ($9 USD). Many places offer set menus that include a starter, main course, and sometimes dessert.
For day trips, pack take-away empanadas or sandwiches, as most excursion sites lack dining options. Always bring ample water and snacks to cover unexpected delays.
Drone Photography in San Pedro de Atacama
Drone regulations in Chile have become stricter. While DJI’s No-Fly Map may not indicate restrictions, many locations prohibit drone usage, particularly on guided tours.
Challenges of flying a drone in Atacama:
- Strong winds can make drone operation difficult.
- High altitudes (above 3,000m) impact drone performance and battery life.
- Tour guides often enforce no-drone policies at key sites.
Best Photography Spots in San Pedro de Atacama
The Atacama Desert offers breathtaking landscapes. For the best spots and photography tips, check out my dedicated guide on capturing Atacama’s stunning scenery.
Combine Your Trip with the Uyuni Salt Flats
After exploring San Pedro de Atacama, consider extending your journey to the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia. Various tours depart from San Pedro, offering an unforgettable transition from Chile’s arid desert to Bolivia’s surreal salt flats.
Plan your Atacama adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes!
