Hiking

Chile

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Atacama Desert

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Hiking in the Atacama Desert

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**The Atacama Desert is one of the largest and driest in the world.** It covers a strip of land of 1,000 km along the Pacific coast, west of the Chilean Andes. Due to its unique landscape and abundant activities on offer, the Atacama Desert has lately become Chile’s top touristic destination.

This tour is a great opportunity to explore the typical, magical scenery and wildlife of the Andean plateau. We will **hike about 5 hours along the Peñaliri River, at a maximum altitude of 4,000 m**, from Machuca to Rio Grande, one of the most remote villages in the area. Along the way, we will probably see wild alpacas, guanacos, ducks and flamingos feeding.

We will depart at 8AM in a vehicle from the town of San Pedro de Atacama (2,408m) to Machuca, 80 km north. Once we arrive at Río Grande mid-afternoon, we will drive back to San Pedro, arriving around 5PM.

Before joining this trip, for acclimatization purposes, we recommend spending at least 3 days in San Pedro de Atacama, participating in other expeditions.

**Interested in this adventure? Book your tour now!**

If you are looking for other expeditions in Atacama, check out the [1-day ascent to Lascar Volcano](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/ascent-lascar-volcano-chile/) or the [2-day ascent to Licanbur](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/ascent-licancabur-san-pedro-atacama/).

Discover the beautiful Atacama Desert in a 1-day hiking tour from Machuca to Río Grande villages, led by a guide from the Vulcano Expediciones team.

1-day hiking tour in the Atacama Desert, Chile. 1-day trip. Certified guide

http://www.vulcanochile.cl/portfolio/treeking-tour-san-pedro-de-atacama/#

1-day hiking tour in the Atacama Desert, Chile

**Join me on this exciting one-day hiking program in the Laguna Cejar!**

During this **one-day hiking trip** we will have the chance to explore  the northern sector of the Salar de Atacama. Surrounded by mountains and steaming volcanoes, this is the largest salt flat located in the north of Chile, 55 km south of San Pedro de Atacama.

We will start our adventure by exploring the Cejar Lagoon, located right in the middle of the Atacama Salt Flat, (8500 feet/2,600 meters) above sea level. Participants will be amazed by this set of salty and emerald-colored water lagoons that due to the density of the water they will be able to float without effort. Also, we will visit the **Ojos del Salar**, two round pools of fresh water.

Finally we will go to the **Tebinquiche Lagoon** to appreciate the specatcular sunset, in a wonderful natural spectacle due to the contrast between the **Cordilleras de la Sal and Domeyko** and **the Cordillera de los Andes**.

**This hiking day in Laguna Cejar will be a great opportunity to discover one of Chile’s most beautiful natural treasures, so if you are interested in this hiking program request to book this trip and get ready for an amazing journey!**

Come with a guide from the Vulcano Expediciones team on this exciting hiking day in Laguna Cejar located in the beautiful North of the Atacama desert in Chile!

Hiking day in Laguna Cejar, North Atacama. 1-day trip. Certified guide

http://www.vulcanochile.cl/portfolio/tour-tradicionales-san-pedro-de-atacama/

Hiking day in Laguna Cejar, North Atacama

Explore the beautiful **Valle del Arcoíris**, **Chile** on a fantastic hiking day to the **Río Salado**. Located in the **San Pedro de Atacama Dessert**, this hike is ideal for those looking to discover **one of Chile's most beautiful places**. I can't wait to show you around.

Our hike will take approximately 4 hours. We'll start at the amazing **Pukará de Quitor** and visit several archeological sites of the **Licanantai culture**. We'll go through the **Valley and Tambo de Catarpe** and reach the impressive **Río Salado petroglyphs**.

It is important that you bring: 2 liters of water, comfortable and light clothes, windbreaker jacket and pants, hiking shoes and sunscreen. I also recommend that you get used to the altitude before this hike. You can carry out different touristic activities around San Pedro de Atacama the days before, so you are ready for our adventure!

**If you are looking to spend a fun day in the beautiful Chilean Andes, look no more! Book your trip now. You'll be completely mesmerized with this place.**

I offer other hikes in Chile, as well. If you are looking for more options, be sure to check out the ones I offer to [Quebrada del Nacimiento](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/quebrada-del-nacimiento-half-day-guided-trek/), [Las Cornisas](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/las-cornisas-trek-atacama/) and [others](https://www.explore-share.com/mountain-guide/vulcano-expediciones/).

Experience the incredible Valle del Arcoíris, Chile on this beautiful one-day hike to the Río Salado with a guide from the Vulcano Expediciones team.

Valle del Arcoíris – Río Salado full day hiking trip. 1-day trip. Certified guide

http://www.vulcanochile.cl/portfolio/treeking-tour-san-pedro-de-atacama/

Valle del Arcoíris – Río Salado full day hiking trip

**Join me on this trekking tour around north Chile’s lagoons and the amazing Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in the country that is located 55 km south from San Pedro de Atacama!**

During this trekking tour, we will visit **the Chaxa Lagoon** which is the best place in Chile to see flamingoes. Located in the center of the Salar de Atacama is part of the **Los Flamencos National Reserve** and one of the most beautiful places to appreciate flamingoes and a variety of other birds as well.

Other lagoons that are perfect to do some birdwatching will be the **the Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons.** Located at 4.200 meters, in the middle of a magical natural landscape, these lagoons are surrounded by hills and volcanoes. Here, participants will be able to discover flamingoes as well as parinas.

We will also visit the towns of **Socaire**, located approximately at 3,600 meters, and **Toconao.** This charming town is known for its architecture of rock constructions with volcanic origin and also for its unique vegetation environment.

**So if you are ready for this trekking tour around north Chile’s most beautiful lagoons, request to book this trip and get ready to discover one of South America’s most beautiful places!**

A Vulcano Expediciones' guide wants to take you on this exciting trekking tour around north Chile's lagoons and the Salar de Atacama!

Trekking tour around north Chile’s lagoons. 1-day trip. Certified guide

Trekking tour around north Chile’s lagoons

Join me on this **4-hour trek in Rio Salado**, a river of north Chile located in the Atacama region. It has a length of 175 km and leads to the city of Chañaral.

During this amazing and fun adventure **we’ll hike from Pukará de Quitor**, a pre-Inca construction located 3 km north of San Pedro de Atacama, passing through other important archaeological sites of **Licanantai**. Then we’ll trek across the Catarpe Valley to finally reach Rio Salado.

To do this trek in Rio Salado, I recommend a previous acclimatization since walking in height requires an extra physical effort. You should also carry 2 liters of water, comfortable and light clothing, trekking shoes and sun screen.

**Send your request and book your place for this half-day trek in Rio Salado. You won’t regret it.**

I lead other interesting hikes near San Pedro de Atacama. You can check out some of them [here](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/tara-half-day-trek-san-pedro-de-atacama/).

Hike to Rio Salado in the Atacama region while discovering many other interesting archaeological sites. You'll depart from Pukara de Quitor in company of a guide from the Vulcano Expediciones team.

Rio Salado half day guided hike in Atacama. 1/2-day trip. Certified guide

Rio Salado half day guided hike in Atacama

**Join me on this guided archaeological tour in the Cordillera de la Sal and let’s travel back in time to discover about the Lican Antai village and its origins!**

I will be happy to **safely guide you** during this **one-day hiking tour** and visit places of great  historical and archaeological importance for the Lican Antai village, such as the Tulor Village and the Pukará de Quitor.

Located in the Norte Grande natural region, near San Pedro de Atacama, **the Tulor Village is one of the most important ancient villages of the Atacama Desert** with adobe buildings dating back 3,000 years ago. As one of the oldest archaeological sites in the country, participants will be amazed with this guided archaeological journey.

**Pukará de Quitor (Fort of Quitor)** is an ancient indigenous fortress that can be found in the Cordillera de la Sal. This **XII century fort** that was declared a National Monument in 1982, is overlooking the valley of the river San Pedro making it possible for tourist to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural views of the Atacama Desert.

**So if you are interested in this exciting archaeological tour in the north of Chile, request to book this trip and get ready to discover one of the countries arqueological treasures!**

A Vulcano Expediciones' guide wants to take you on this exciting guided archaeological tour around the Cordillera de la Sal in Chile!

Guided archaeological tour in Cordillera de la Sal. 1-day trip. Certified guide

Guided archaeological tour in Cordillera de la Sal

### **For 17 exciting days, I would like to guide you on a mountaineering expedition on the Copiapo Volcano (6,080m).**

Located in the **Atacama Region of Chile, the Copiapo Volcano** is an incredible peak. It is full of gorgeous views that only grow more spectacular the further up you go.

Our trip will begin in **Buenos Aires**, where you will catch a flight to **La Rioja**. After that, we will go to **Fiambala**, where we will spend the night. For the next few days, we will trek around the area. Moreover, for the purpose of acclimatization, we will also climb to the summits of the **Cerro Pastos Largos (4,100m) and Cortaderas (4,050m)**. Following those summits, we will venture to **Las Grutas** before summiting the **Cerro Beltran (5,350m).** For the next few days, we will go to the **Murray Refuge**. Near the refuge, we will do more climbing of nearby peaks, including the **Picos de Indios (5,885m).**

On the 9th day of the trip, after you’re properly acclimatized, we will make our way to the **base camp** of **Copiapo (4,700m).** On the following day, we will summit the great peak. Afterwards, we will make our way back to **Fiambala and then La Rioja**, where you will fly home. There will be **additional days** included in the itinerary in case of inclement weather. Thus giving you a better chance of reaching the summit of **Copiapo**.

**Definitely one of the most sensational peaks in Chile, Copiapo is a great peak to climb. To enjoy the ascent, all you have to do is send a request.**

I also offer a [12-day journey to the summit of the Cerro San Francisco in Catamarca (6,016m).](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/ascent-cerro-san-francisco-catamarca/)

Country of origin - Buenos Aires - La Rioja or Catamarca - Fiambalá

Fiambalá - Cutters 3,300m

3.300M cutters

Cortaderas - Las Grutas 4.100M

The Grottoes 4,100m - C ° Bertrand

Las Grutas 4,100m - Marigunga - R. Murray 4,300m

Murray Shelter 4.300m - Wheelwrigh Peak 5.800m

Murray Shelter 4.300m

From Murray Shelter 4.300m to the ABC Copiapo

ABC Copiapó - Copiapó Summit - ABC.

Extra day n ° 1.

ABC Copiapó - Maricunga Coustom - Fiambalá

Fiambalá - La Rioja Airport- Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires - Country of Origin

Extra Days

Join EPGAMT certified guide, Luciano for a 17-day expedition on the amazing Copiapo Volcano in the Atacama Region of Chile.

17-day Expedition on the Copiapo volcano in Chile’s Atacama Region. 17-day trip. Certified guide

http://lucianobadinoexpeditions.com/tours/volcan-de-copiapo-6-080m-puna/

17-day Expedition on the Copiapo volcano in Chile’s Atacama Region

Discover the incredible wilderness and landscapes of the Andes on this 4-day trek in Atacama, in the northern area of Chile.

San Pedro de Atacama is located in the Antofagasta region of Chile. Not only does it boast stunning landscapes, but it is also a spot full of pre-columbian native ruins.  On this 4-day adventure, I offer you a program with a great variety of experiences to enjoy **Atacama** in a wonderful way. You will have the chance to explore the rivers, geysers, and mountains of this incredible area.

First of all, on day 1, we’ll meet in **San Pedro de Atacama** and go to **Río Salado** and **Río Grande**. On day 2, we’ll visit **Machuca**, a small village in the middle of the mountains, and then reach **Geiser Blanco**. Then, on day 3, we’ll trek to the summit of **Soquete Volcano**, located at **5,410 meters** above sea level, and return to Geiser Blanco. On day 4, we’ll explore **El Tatio**, one of the largest fields of geysers in the world. Finally, we’ll visit the **Puritama hot springs** and go back to San Pedro de Atacama.

Because this is a challenging trek, it is a requirement for this trip to have a **very good fitness level**. Of course, I will be there to help and guide you all the way.

**So, are you ready for a fantastic experience in the heart of Atacama? Then send the request to book your place now and prepare to discover this amazing area.**

You can also take a look at this program to [**Licancabur Volcano**](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/2-day-mountaineering-licancabur-volcano/), in the border area between Chile and Bolivia. Check it out!

Come to the heart of Atacama and discover incredible natural spots on this 4-day trek in Rio Salado along with Carlos, an IFMGA certified mountain guide.

4-day trek in Rio Salado, San Pedro de Atacama. 4-day trip. Certified guide

4-day trek in Rio Salado, San Pedro de Atacama

**Join us as we take you through several national parks, past salt lakes, deep blue lagoons and across the Atacama desert in northern Chile. You’ll also see numerous geoglyphs including the Atacama Giant on this 5-day trip.**

We’ll begin from the bustling markets of Arica and continue towards the famous Caves of Anzota. The caves provide a glimpse to the lifestyle of ancient Chinchorro people. Next, we’ll head towards the **Morro of Arica, a steep hill where we will enjoy panoramic views**. The Azapa Valley is our next stop, where we’ll spot the **geoglyphs of Cerro Sombrero or the Geoglyphs de la Tropilla.**

**Mount Cerro Sagrado, Las Llosyas, the Archaeological Museum of San Miguel of Azapa, Pukara de Copaquilla fort, Iglesia de San Gerónimo, Chungara lake and the impressive nitrate mines of Chile,** are just a few of the many attractions we’ll cover on this trip.

You will visit not one but three natural parks here- **National Reserve of the Vicuñas, Vulcano Isluga National Park and the Lauca National Park. It will be enriching to explore the rich biodiversity of these areas. Look out for parinas, ducks, vicuñas, vizcachas and taguas.** 

The highlight of the trip is a visit to the **Surire salt lake and the Arabilla lagoon**. White salt deposits in contrast to the blue waters of the lagoons offer stunning sights. We’ll also come across two thermal baths- one at **Polloquere and the other at Jurasi.**

**You’ll be stunned by the marvelous arid landscapes as we’ll pass through the Atacama Desert and spot the Atacama Giant at the flank of Cerro Unita. The National Reserve of the Pampa Tamarugal** is another reserve we’ll visit before getting to **San Pedro de Atacama**, to mark an end to this incredible trip.

**Book your place now to explore the impressive landscapes and unique culture of northern Chile.**

**Looking for a shorter trip? Then check out our 3-day tour where we’ll** [**visit the Lauca National Park and its surrounding areas.**](https://www.explore-share.com/trip/visit-lauca-national-park-surroundings-northern-chile-3-day-walking-sightseeing-tour-arica/)

We will set off from the beautiful city of Arica. Then, we will visit multiple locations including the market at Terminal Asoagro, Caves of Anzota and the prodigious Azapa Valley.  On the way, we will see surprising geoglyphs on the Cerro Sombrero or the Geoglyphs de la Tropilla.

After, we will head towards the Cerro Sagrado (Holy Mountain) and visit the Lluta Valley to learn about the early settlers of Poconchile. We will stop at the Tambo Sapahuira for lunch. Then, we will continue towards the village of Socoroma to see its unique architecture. Finally, we will head to Putre.

From Arica to Putre

On day 2, we will go towards the massive Lauca National Park. We will hike through breathtaking landscapes of caves and highlands. Then, we will continue towards the unique ecosystem of Chucuyo and stop at Cotacotani lagoon before going towards the magical lake Chungara where we will see the marvelous reflection of Parinacota volcano in clear lake water.

Next, we will head towards Parinacota village. We’ll enjoy a bath in the thermal springs of Jurasi, before heading back to Putre.

Putre to Lauca National Park & Lake Chungara 

We will leave for the National Reserve of the Vicuñas. Then, we will continue towards the  
beautiful Surire salt lake. Next, we’ll have a delicious picnic at the thermal baths of Polloquere.

We will head towards Vulcano Isluga National Park and explore its rich biodiversity. Then we will visit the Arabilla lagoon, surrounded by small bofedales(wetlands).

Aditionally, we’ll also visit the altiplano communes of Enquelga and Isluga before heading to Colchane, a village at the Bolivian border which represents the Aymara-culture.

Putre to National Reserve of the Vicuñas & Salt Lake Surire 

On day 4, we will continue towards Cariquima to experience the Aymara life and appreciate their handicraft. We will visit Chusmiza and then continue towards the 86m geoglyph of The Giant of the Atacama, located at the flanks of the Cerro Unita. Then, we will stop at Huara village for lunch and head towards the most impressive nitrate mines of Chile.

Finally, we will reach the beautiful oasis of Pica by evening.

Colchane to Atacama Desert to Pica

On the final day, we will go to see the geoglyphs pintados. We will cross an impressive forest in  
the Atacama Desert to reach the National Reserve of the Pampa Tamarugal. Then, we will pass through the village of Quillagua and enjoy marvelous landscapes. Finally, we’ll cross the desert to get to San Pedro de Atacama.

Pica to San Pedro de Atacama

Join one of our certified guides to venture on a unique trip which covers all the highlights in northern Chile. Explore the diverse National Parks, visit beautiful salt lakes and cross the Giant Atacama Desert on this 5-day tour!

5-day “Highlights of northern Chile” sightseeing and walking tour, from Arica. 5-day trip. Certified guide

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5X3lu15hiXGRWVFc3F3TmEyd2JIbm1PRzg0VnFqVnlnVWQ0/view

5-day “Highlights of northern Chile” sightseeing and walking tour, from Arica

### **I am really happy to offer you this 8-day program in Atacama. Undoubtedly, it will be the challenge of your life!**

Are you ready to join me for the **Atacama Challenge**? This exciting program consists in 8 unforgettable days, walking in one of the driest deserts of the world.

The main reasons why I think you should come to this expedition are:

*   _You will cross the worldwide famous Atacama Desert by foot;_ 
    
*   _You will learn a lot about native people and their lifestyles;_
    
*   _Visit Atacama Salt Flats and the Moon Valley;_
    
*   _A great trek in the Andean High Plateau where you’ll see the flora and fauna of the place._
    

During the trek you will also witness the natural and cultural features which make Atacama a unique region. We’ll hike through the famous Andean plateau and visit some Inca villages as well as many other archeological sites. In addition, this region offers incredible contrasts in its landscapes and a unique wildlife.

The **Atacama challenge** is a perfect option for those who are looking for a technical improvement. Of course, some **prior hiking experience** will be necessary as well as **a good fitness level**. Keep in mind we must walk during 9 or 10 hours per day. However, and in order to make it an easy-going adventure, you won’t have to carry all the equipment on the way. You’ll just carry your basic needs and our private cars will take the rest to the campsite of the day.

**This trip is only available for private groups. So, get in touch with me to obtain a custom program with personalized rates according to your wishes and expectations. I await your message!**

Don't miss this Atacama Challenge in company with the Chilean and IFMGA mountain guide Eduardo. Unique landscapes and wildlife are there waiting for you.

Atacama Challenge: 8-day trekking adventure with a guide. 8-day trip. IFMGA/UIAGM guide

http://andesadventureguides.com/en/trips-and-adventures/hiking-trekking/atacama-challenge/

Atacama Challenge: 8-day trekking adventure with a guide

**Laguna Cejar is located in the Salar de Atacama (2,600 m), 20 kilometers away from the town of San Pedro de Atacama (2,440 m), in the Atacama Desert.**

The **Salar de Atacama** is the largest salt flat in Chile covering 3,000 square kilometers west to the **Andes Mountains** (6,961 m).

Our tour will depart at 4PM from my agency in San Pedro. Prior to this, participants will be picked up at their accommodation in the village. We will drive around 25 minutes in a 4×4 vehicle through the desert to our destination.

Laguna Cejar is well known for its turquoise water, its white shore made of salt crystals of different shapes and sizes, and for hosting pale pink Andean flamingos, which stop to feed. Guests will have time to walk around the lagoon, take pictures, and go swimming (a must!). Its waters stay warm year-round and its high concentration of salt allows swimmers to float comfortably and effortless on the surface.

The tour will end with a visit to **Laguna Tebinquinche**, just 9 kilometers from San Pedro. We will stop to enjoy a snack and a pisco sour, Chile’s national drink, while we witness the sunset behind the Andes and its reflection on the lagoon.

**Join this unique adventure in the Salar de Atacama. Book your tour now!**

Participants will be picked up at their accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama.

Discover Laguna Cejar, one of the Atacama Desert’s most magical sites, in a half-day expedition led by a certified mountain guide.

Half-day tour to Laguna Cejar, Atacama. 1/2-day trip. Certified guide

http://www.vulcanochile.cl/portfolio/tour-especiales-san-pedro-de-atacama/

Half-day tour to Laguna Cejar, Atacama

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