Salt Mountain Range and Vallecito: Sunset Exploration in Atacama

Q: What you need to know

Included: certified bilingual guide trained in first aid with satellite communication, 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?Wear warm layers (temperatures vary greatly), a hat and gloves for the cold, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), comfortable walking shoes, and bring a reusable water bottle.How cold does it get at sunset?In winter, temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F). We recommend dressing in layers.Is acclimatization necessary?No, the maximum altitude reached is similar to San Pedro de Atacama (2,450 meters above sea level), so no prior acclimatization is required.Do I need any prior experience?Not at all. This is a customizable tour that we can adapt to suit your group’s needs.What if I have dietary restrictions?Let us know in the registration form after booking, and we’ll adjust the snacks to meet your requirements.What is the 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, reschedule the tour, or provide an alternative experience.

difficulty

Low

Duration

5 hours

Location

Salt Mountain Range

Distance

24 km from San Pedro de Atacama

Season

Year-round

Discover the mysteries of the Salt Mountain Range and be amazed by the unique landscapes of Vallecito bathed in golden sunset light

Embark on a one-of-a-kind journey through the Atacama Desert, where landscapes sculpted by wind and time await your discovery.

We start the adventure under a solitary tree in the middle of the desert, a serene spot where you can connect with the surrounding tranquility.

Then, we head to Vallecito, a hidden gem among the mountains, with surreal geological formations that feel otherworldly.

Along the way, we’ll explore ancient salt mines, walk across golden dunes, and admire breathtaking panoramic views from towering ridges.

Our journey includes a visit to the iconic abandoned bus, shrouded in mystery, before ending with a sunset picnic as the day fades into night.

Highlights

ItinerarY

3:00 PM

Pick-up from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama.

3:45 PM

Stop at the solitary tree in the desert.

4:15 PM

Explore Vallecito.

5:00 PM

Visit the ancient salt mines.

5:30 PM

Walk along dunes and panoramic ridges.

6:00 PM

Stop at the abandoned bus.

6:30 - 7:30 PM

Sunset picnic and relaxation.

8:00 PM

Return to San Pedro de Atacama.

Customizable

This itinerary is just an example and can be adjusted to fit your interests and 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

What you need to know

Included: certified bilingual guide trained in first aid with satellite communication, 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?

Wear warm layers (temperatures vary greatly), a hat and gloves for the cold, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), comfortable walking shoes, and bring a reusable water bottle.

How cold does it get at sunset?

In winter, temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F). We recommend dressing in layers.

Is acclimatization necessary?

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

Do I need any prior experience?

Not at all. This is a customizable tour that we can adapt to suit your group’s needs.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Let us know in the registration form after booking, and we’ll adjust the snacks to meet your requirements.

What is the 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, reschedule the tour, or provide an alternative experience.

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.