Rainbow Valley and Yerbas Buenas: Multicolored Landscapes and Ancient Art

Difficulty

Low

Duration

7 hours

Location

Rainbow Valley

Distance

60 km from San Pedro de Atacama

Season

Year-round

Immerse yourself in the history and geology of the Atacama Desert by exploring ancient petroglyphs and colorful hills

This 7-hour scenic and cultural adventure connects the natural beauty of the landscape with the rich human heritage of the Atacama Desert.

Discover the Domeyko Range, one of the oldest geological formations in the world, full of history and unique landscapes.

This tour explores the ancient petroglyphs at Yerbas Buenas, offering a glimpse into the life of the region’s early inhabitants.

Continue to the unique landscape of Rainbow Valley, where mineral-rich hills await you.

With flexible scheduling options and an emphasis on storytelling, this tour offers a way to connect with the land and its ancient past.

Highlights

Visit this archaeological site featuring petroglyphs carved by ancient cultures, depicting daily life and the early domestication of camelids.
Walk among hills where minerals paint the rocks in shades of red, green, and yellow, creating unique landscapes.
Discover one of the oldest geological formations on the planet, rich in history and natural wonders.
Visit the community of Río Grande to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Atacameño people. See grazing llamas and learn how rural customs are still preserved.
Customize your tour by starting early to catch the sunrise, enhancing the valley’s colors and enjoying a delicious local breakfast.

Itinerary

8:00 AM

Depart from San Pedro de Atacama and head to Yerbas Buenas.

9:00 AM

Explore Yerbas Buenas and the petroglyphs carved by ancient cultures.

10:00 AM

Transfer to Rainbow Valley.

10:30 AM

Explore Rainbow Valley, with a light walk among multicolored hills and rock formations sculpted by erosion.

12:30 PM

Lunch in Río Grande, where you’ll see llamas and learn more about Atacameño rural life.

2:30 PM

Return to San Pedro de Atacama.

3:00 PM

Arrive back in San Pedro de Atacama.

Customizable

This itinerary is just an example and can be adjusted according to your interests and preferred schedule.

My tours with Joaquin were superb. Great hiking trip in the Andes, with no other tourists to be seen, exactly what I was looking for and lovely unexpected touch with the beer and nibbles at the end. He even worked out with me how to fit in a trip to the Atacama desert and fixed me up with a local guide all in the space of one day (on the way to the Andes). I also did a great trip on arrival to Valparaiso direct from airport returning to Santiago, excellent organisation. I couldn't recommend Joaquin enough, he is awesome.
Helen s.
Traveler

Everything you need to know

Included: certified bilingual guide with first aid training and a satellite communication device, entry to Yerbas Buenas and Rainbow Valley, breakfast or lunch (according to tour time), round-trip transportation from your hotel, accident insurance, 19% IVA tax. 

Not included: Optional tips. 

What should I bring?

Layered warm clothing (temperatures vary significantly throughout the day), hat and gloves for the cold, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle.

How cold is it at sunrise?

In winter, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C, so it’s essential to dress in layers.

Do I need to acclimatize?

No, we recommend this tour as one of the first to book in San Pedro, as the altitude is not too high. Still, it’s a good idea to stay hydrated and move gently to avoid any effects from the altitude.

Do I need prior experience?

Not at all. This is a customizable tour, and we will tailor it to your group’s needs.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Let us know your dietary needs in the registration form we’ll send after booking, and we will adjust the snacks accordingly.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. In the event of extreme weather, we offer a full refund, rescheduling, or an alternative tour option.

Do you still have doubts?

Don’t worry, we are here to help you.

Write to us and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Also, download our brochure with all the details about this tour, including itineraries, recommendations and what you need to know to fully enjoy this experience.