The Best Way to Travel Through San Pedro de Atacama, Chile (South America)
- Chelsey Jacobs
- Jun 11, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 4, 2024
As spiritually fulfilling as one can imagine, San Pedro satisfies your spiritual needs physically. Its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing starry skies make it a destination you simply must experience in your lifetime. After exploring this guide, you'll undoubtedly feel compelled to book your next trip here—it's like stepping onto the surface of Mars, right here on Earth. Despite being a small town, San Pedro boasts an incredible attitude. With over 25 nearby attractions to choose from, the options for exploration are endless.
This guide shows you the best way to travel through San Pedro de Atacama leaving with NO regrets!
Volunteer information
Other pointers
General Notes:
There are only two ways to reach San Pedro de Atacama: either by flying or taking a bus to Calama and then transferring to a bus bound for San Pedro.
Alternatively, you can embark on the Uyuni-Atacama road trip, which can conclude in San Pedro.
Buses from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama operate daily, so there's no need to worry—you'll catch a bus to Atacama on the day of your arrival.
Avoid pre-booking excursions before reaching San Pedro de Atacama, as you may end up paying exorbitant prices. There are plenty of tour companies in town, offering all the activities you could possibly imagine!
2. Place of stay
Casa Voyage: 10/10 stars. The hostel is resting in a secluded and secure private unit. Now offering exclusive tours, bike rentals, and nightly dinners for a small fee, Casa Voyage has transformed into a vibrant hub. A stunning pool, weekly BBQs, and ample seating including hammocks and couches make it a heaven. While not a party hostel per se, there's always a lively atmosphere, with beers, smoke, and local music. I would enthusiastically choose to stay here again. My time here introduced me to some of the most remarkable individuals. Due to its popularity, booking a week to two weeks in advance is advisable. When you do, don't forget to mention Chelsey referred you to Pati and Nico!
a. Volunteer information
Volunteering here offers a unique perspective. Being involved as a volunteer created a deep connection with the staff and environment, motivating me to provide excellent service and forge new friendships with incoming guests.
Expect to dedicate 25 hours per week to tasks.
My typical schedule included three overnight shifts weekly, from 11 pm to 8 am, which admittedly was a bit challenging. Additionally, I took charge of cooking lunch once a week for the staff and volunteers. I gladly assisted others with cooking, as pitching in meant enjoying complimentary meals. Free lunch is a daily perk for both staff and volunteers.
3. Activities
Pro-tip: Do not book anything over WhatsApp. Going in person will allow for bargaining with cash
Mercado Blanco: My favorite artisanal market with gorgeous handcrafted pieces. Pay a visit to the stall Altiplanic Craft for extraordinary one-of-a-kind pieces.
Excursions: (with linked companies I used)
Star Gazing Tour: A MUST IF YOU'RE SHORT ON TIME. San Pedro de Atacama has breathtaking celestial displays. Pay for a tour, enjoy snacks and a cocktail, and witness the sky in a whole new light.
Valle de la Luna: One of my personal favorites. Valle de la Luna is colossal and profoundly moving. The rugged mountain ridges, vastness, and depth are awe-inspiring. It offers not just natural beauty but also a fascinating history lesson. Opt for an afternoon tour to catch the stunning sunset from a magnificent cliff after exploring Valle de la Luna.
If biking, ensure you enter the park before 9 am or they won't let you pass through.
Bike to Gargantua del Diablo (Devil’s Throat): Another essential sightseeing adventure in San Pedro that is done without a tour. It's advisable to tackle this with friends. While there's a small park fee, the experience is invaluable. When you reach the end of Gargantua del Diablo, embark on the 15-minute hike to the summit. Though there might be moments of bike-hauling over rocky terrain, the panoramic views make it worthwhile. Carry plenty of water and snacks for the journey!
Termas de Purtitama/Purilibre: A delightful hike through rocks and trees leading to hot springs amidst the Atacama wilderness. A truly rejuvenating experience! The pristine waters are a treat for the senses.
Piedras Rojas: An all-day excursion that covers significant parts of the Atacama. While it's undoubtedly beautiful and informative, it might not be a top recommendation if you're on a tight schedule. It bears some resemblance to parts of the Uyuni road trip.
Sandboarding: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. It's an exhilarating activity, especially if you've never tried it before. I had a blast during the afternoon session, and the added charm of the tour guide's child made it even more memorable. If you're adept at snowboarding, you'll find it quite enjoyable and easy to pick up.
Laguna Cejar (Dead Sea): A fantastic experience floating in one of the two swimmable "dead seas."
Bike Valle de la Muerte: A LANDSCAPE STRAIGHT OUT OF MARS, that is done without a tour. This multi-hour bike ride through stunning mountain terrain is unforgettable. Take a break midway for a short hike to soak in the panoramic views. Be sure to pack lunch and plenty of water for this hot excursion! You can loop back to downtown San Pedro via Highway 23 after completing the ride.
4. Restaurants x Cafes
Roots: This was my go-to spot every day during my stay in San Pedro. Tucked away just before the main road, it became my favorite cafe. While I never indulged in their food, their iced lattes and lemon pies were a daily ritual for me. The back patio seating, bathed in sunlight and accompanied by chill music, was my haven. And the reliable wifi was the cherry on top.
Emporio Andino: Located at one of the corners of the main road, this cafe offers a diverse menu. Renowned for serving the best empanadas in the city, I wholeheartedly agree with this claim!
TuKsa Sushi y Comida Oriental: Simply for a craving in a change in cuisine, I found their sushi quite satisfying. I recommended it to fellow hostel guests who also enjoyed it. With 50 pieces of sushi priced at just 20 USD, it's a steal!
La Franchuteria: Undoubtedly the finest bakery in town. Their bread is so good that some tours use it for sandwiches. It's a must-visit for a delicious brunch experience.
Jardin Meraki: Highly recommended by locals, this dinner spot offers a diverse menu to suit all tastes. With such high praise, you can't go wrong dining here!
a. Other pointers:
Emporio Tanti: A small grocery store with nuts, tea, and other vegan products. Cheaper to buy nuts here because they sell by weight versus at the bigger supermercado
Supermercado San Vicente: Biggest supermarket in town
5. Please visit the San Pedro de Atacama-Uyuni roadtrip guide here for information and visa necessitates as an American
Next stop: The San Pedro de Atacama 3-day 2-night road trip into Uyuni, Bolivia
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