Best Tours in the Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is one of the most otherworldly places on Earth – a surreal mix of salt flats, geysers, volcanoes, and star-filled skies. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or natural beauty, this region in northern Chile offers unforgettable experiences year-round.

At Patagonia Hero, we’ve curated the best tours in the Atacama Desert to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you have a few days or a full week, here are the best Atacama tours to help you experience its magic, all available through Patagonia Hero. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

1. Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) Sunset Magic

If there’s one tour you can’t skip, it’s Moon Valley at sunset. Just 13 km from San Pedro de Atacama, this landscape looks straight out of another planet. Walk through sand dunes, admire dramatic rock formations, and watch the desert glow in shades of orange and pink as the sun sets behind the Andes.

Tip: Afternoon departures (around 3 pm) are perfect. Don’t forget your camera, the lighting is incredible.

Photo by Isabel Mahnert

2. El Tatio Geysers – Sunrise in the High Andes

At over 4,300 meters above sea level, El Tatio is the third-largest geyser field in the world. Depart early (around 4:30 am) to arrive at sunrise, when dozens of steam plumes rise dramatically against the cold morning air.

You’ll also pass through small Andean villages like Machuca, where you can try llama skewers and local tea. If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the essentials, the Atacama Highlights 4 Days tour is the perfect introduction.

Tip: Dress warmly – temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer!}

Photo by Isabel Mahnert

3. Cejar Lagoon and Ojos del Salar – Float in a Salt Lagoon

Ever wanted to float effortlessly like in the Dead Sea? The Cejar Lagoon offers that exact experience thanks to its high salt concentration. Visit nearby Ojos del Salar, two deep blue sinkholes in the middle of the desert, and end the day with a sunset at Tebinquinche Lagoon, reflecting the Andes on calm waters. 

Perfect for: Relaxation, photography, and a refreshing dip (don’t forget to rinse afterward, the salt is intense).

For travelers fascinated by Chile’s diverse cultures and landscapes, the Santiago, Atacama & Easter Island 12 Days itinerary is a fantastic option.

Photo by Isabel Mahnert

4. Rainbow Valley (Valle del Arcoíris) – Colors of the Desert

Tucked away near the Domeyko Range, Rainbow Valley is famous for its mineral-rich hills that shimmer in reds, greens, and yellows. It’s a quieter area, ideal for those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures and geology. Combine it with a visit to Yerbas Buenas, an ancient site with pre-Columbian petroglyphs that tell stories of Atacameño culture.

5. Stargazing Tour – The Clearest Skies on Earth

Atacama is renowned as one of the best stargazing destinations on the planet. With virtually no light pollution, you’ll see constellations, planets, and the Milky Way with incredible clarity. Local astronomers guide you through powerful telescopes and help you identify southern hemisphere constellations.

Best time: Year-round, but especially between March and December when skies are at their clearest.

6. Altiplanic Lagoons (Miscanti & Miñiques) – High-Altitude Wonders

Located over 4,000 meters above sea level, these turquoise lagoons sit beneath snow-capped volcanoes and are part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve. Along the way, you’ll see wild vicuñas, flamingos, and Andean foxes – a photographer’s dream.

This full-day trip also includes a visit to Socaire and Toconao, charming desert villages that showcase traditional Atacameño life. For those craving a bit more exploration, the Atacama Adventure 6 Days itinerary dives deeper into the desert’s most remote corners.

Photo by Isabel Mahnert

Planning Your Visit with Patagonia Hero

At Patagonia Hero, we handle all logistics so you can focus on enjoying the experience. From private transfers and licensed guides to custom itineraries, our goal is to make your Atacama trip seamless and memorable.

We recommend staying at least 4 to 5 days in San Pedro de Atacama to explore these highlights comfortably.

Photo by Isabel Mahnert

When to Visit the Atacama Desert

Atacama can be visited year-round, but the best months are April to December. Days are warm and dry, while nights are cool – perfect for hiking, photography, and stargazing. Ready to explore the magic of the Atacama Desert?
Contact Patagonia Hero today to create your personalized itinerary, whether it’s Moon Valley at sunset or a full desert expedition, we’ll make sure it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Contact us or email info@patagoniahero.com to start planning.