Chile - Norte Grande & Atacama Desert
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Northern Chile & the Atacama Desert: Starting in the north, the first 3 regions of Chile that border with Peru and Bolivia are known as "Norte Grande" , with a warm "mediterranean" Pacific coastline and cool altiplano Andean highlands in the east. The latter is rich in wildlife and offers dramatic views due to the high altitude and crystal clear air. Most visitors base themselves in San Pedro de Atacama (2), an hour's ride from Calama airport (IATA CJC). Known as the "driest desert on Earth" the Atacama Desert is one of the "must see" areas in Chile! The virtually rainless plateau consists of isolated lunar scenes, simmering geysers and salt lakes dotted with flamingos. A VERY SPECIAL destination indeed!
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San Pedro de Atacama itself is located at 2,407m (7,900ft) AMSL, but many of the outstanding sights to be seen are located at 4,000 m (13,000+ft) or higher. Accordingly, guests MUST acclimatize for a minimum period (24 - 36hrs) before going to visit the higher locations. We recommend a 4-night package here as a minimum, first visiting the (lower) sites such as Moon and Death Valleys, and the Atacama Salt Flats with three different species of flamingos, before going on to explore the (higher) magnificent views to be seen at Tara Lagoon or the Altiplanic Lakes (& volcanos Miscanti and Miniques). Lovers of geysers and thermal pools should not miss an early morning visit to Tatio Geysers or the serenely peaceful and beautiful Puritama Therms.
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Other amazing sites are also waiting to be explored, such as the historic remains of Tulor aldea that predate Christ, or the Inca-period fortress of Quitor Pukara, where the lives of early Atacamenans can be visualized. Further afield, tours on horseback or by vehicle take visitors to sights such as "Rainbow Valley", the "Grand Dune", or to float in San Pedro's version of the Dead Sea, Lake Cejar. Whether climbing, mountain biking, or just relaxing by the pool or in the spa of one of the many outstanding hotels that cosset guests in this fabulous destination, for some of the BEST holiday experiences in San Pedro, take a peek below!
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Unique Destinations recommends a fabulous list of superb, high-end, all-inclusive holiday experiences in San Pedro de Atacama, that will pick you up from Calama airport, transport you to luxurious, rustic accommodation in the Park, and where you will be treated like kings for your visit!
This starts with a warm welcome and inviting cocktail on arrival; briefing on what tours can be experienced, with first-class guides and transport; followed by delicious wines and food in the hotels' various restaurants, poolside bars, and inviting spas with sauna and massage opportunities. We especially recommend Alto Atacama, Tierra Atacama, Cumbres and Awasi, each offering outstanding, warm hospitality and a unique style. |
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For those with a little more time available and who wish to drive themselves, we can recommend an alternative program with other great hotels and hostels that offer an excellent B&B service, warm hospitality, and good advice on what spots to visit in town for a lively night out or to taste the local cuisine. Another GREAT idea for those visiting the Atacama, is to spend an evening stargazing from one of the outstanding optical observatories that can be found in San Pedro! We have a particular favourite, run by a professional astronomer who retired from his career in the ESO (European Space Observatory) to run an amazing observatory now in San Pedro - offering probably the BEST opportunity to view the night sky anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere!
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PRICING (2018/19 Season)
All-Inclusive prices start at around US$ 1,000 for 4 nights for two persons sharing a double room. Tariffs normally include airport transfers, all meals, unlimited use of spa, pool, jacuzzis (massage & special treatments extra), small group guided excursions daily with other guests, daily transfers into San Pedro town, and open bar (less premium drinks).
B&B options for the better hotels (closer access to town, outdoor pool, better quality rooms and facilities) start at approximately US$ 250/night for a double room with private WC and breakfast.
Half-day tours in the Atacama start from US$ 25 -35/person; Full Day tours from US$ 75/person. Stargazing (recommended agent; 2.5hrs including transport from San Pedro) US$ 40/person (NB. NO stargazing tours 3 days either side of Full Moon! Check with us for exact dates!)
All-Inclusive prices start at around US$ 1,000 for 4 nights for two persons sharing a double room. Tariffs normally include airport transfers, all meals, unlimited use of spa, pool, jacuzzis (massage & special treatments extra), small group guided excursions daily with other guests, daily transfers into San Pedro town, and open bar (less premium drinks).
B&B options for the better hotels (closer access to town, outdoor pool, better quality rooms and facilities) start at approximately US$ 250/night for a double room with private WC and breakfast.
Half-day tours in the Atacama start from US$ 25 -35/person; Full Day tours from US$ 75/person. Stargazing (recommended agent; 2.5hrs including transport from San Pedro) US$ 40/person (NB. NO stargazing tours 3 days either side of Full Moon! Check with us for exact dates!)