Valley of the Moon: Half-Day Adventure in Atacama

Q: What you need to know

Included: certified bilingual guide trained in first aid with satellite communication, entrance to the Valley of the Moon, picnic with local snacks, transportation to and from your hotel, accident insurance, 19% IVA tax.Not Included: optional gratuities.

Q: Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring?Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a reusable water bottle are recommended.Do I need to acclimate for this tour?No. The highest altitude reached is similar to San Pedro de Atacama (2,450 meters above sea level), so no prior acclimatization is required.What if I have dietary restrictions?Please let us know about any dietary restrictions in the registration form after booking, and we’ll adjust the snacks accordingly.What is your cancellation policy?You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. In case of extreme weather, we’ll offer a full refund, rescheduling, or an alternative tour.

Difficulty

Low

Duration

4 hours

Location

Moon Valley

Distance

22 km from San Pedro de Atacama

season

Year-round

Explore the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert, featuring dunes, salt mines, and unique rock formations.

Embark on a half-day journey to the Valley of the Moon, one of the Atacama Desert’s most iconic landscapes.

Wind and time have shaped salt caves, vast dunes, and rock formations reminiscent of the moon’s surface.

Whether you explore in the morning or during sunset, the shifting colors of the desert provide a breathtaking spectacle.

Before returning, unwind with a picnic surrounded by the tranquil scenery, while enjoying views of the Andes and the majestic Licancabur Volcano.

Highlights

Itinerary

9:00 AM

Pick-up from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama and transfer to the Valley of the Moon entrance.

9:30 AM

Walk for 30 minutes on the Gran Dune to take in panoramic views.

10:00 AM

Visit ancient salt mines and the iconic Tres Marías rock formations.

10:45 AM

Stop at the Ckari Viewpoint to admire the Andes and surrounding volcanoes.

11:45 AM

Enjoy a local picnic while watching the changing colors of the desert.

12:30 PM

Begin the return trip.

1:00 PM

Arrive back in San Pedro de Atacama.

Customizable

This itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Another option is to take this tour in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset at the Valley of the Moon.

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

What you need to know

Included: certified bilingual guide trained in first aid with satellite communication, entrance to the Valley of the Moon, picnic with local snacks, transportation to and from your hotel, accident insurance, 19% IVA tax.

Not Included: optional gratuities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring?

Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Do I need to acclimate for this tour?

No. The highest altitude reached is similar to San Pedro de Atacama (2,450 meters above sea level), so no prior acclimatization is required.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Please let us know about any dietary restrictions in the registration form after booking, and we’ll adjust the snacks accordingly.

What is your cancellation policy?

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

Map

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.