In northern Chili, San Pedro de Atacama bakes under the sun in the world's most arid desert. Discover this timeless little oasis where ancestral cultures blend with extraordinary landscapes.

History

San Pedro de Atacama nestles at 2,400 meters altitude between the Atacama Desert and the Altiplano. Inhabited for 11,000 years, this remote territory was first home to llama herders. The Atacameña people settled here around 500 BCE, bringing with them the art of pottery, handcrafted woodwork and metalwork, and weaving.

The Inca Empire, during its expansion into northern Chili, established itself in the region around 1450 and imposed its culture on the indigenous population. They were subsequently conquered by Spanish conquistadors led by Pedro de Valdivia in 1540. San Pedro de Atacama then became a strategic base on the route between Argentina and the Pacific Ocean. Several centuries later, the small village transformed into a tourist hub for exploring the Atacama Desert.

Discovering San Pedro de Atacama

No place on Earth compares to San Pedro de Atacama. An oasis in the desert in the literal sense, the village offers a stress-free paradise. Here, proud indigenous people and travelers from around the world mingle, far from the frenzy of civilization. A place of rest yet a springboard for adventure, San Pedro de Atacama awaits to transport you.

Village Walk

What strikes you at first glance entering the village are the adobe houses and dirt streets that give the place a rustic appearance. San Pedro de Atacama features a small central paved square with landscaped pools and modest vegetation that bring a touch of freshness. Nearby, visit the Iglesia de San Pedro, dating from the first half of the 18th century. Then head to the feria artesanal across the way to discover a series of regional craft stalls.

One of the village's main attractions is the Museo Arqueológico R.P. Gustavo Le Paige. Appreciate its collection of ancient ceramics, but don't miss the religious paintings, ceremonial artifacts, wooden sculptures, and more. Next, venture about 3 kilometers north of town to see the fortress of Pukará de Quitor. Built in the 12th century on a promontory, this pre-Inca structure overlooks the Río San Pedro. This was the site of the decisive battle between the Spanish army commanded by Pedro de Valdivia and local forces. Climb the ramparts and bring your camera to capture panoramic views of San Pedro de Atacama.

Prepare Yourself to Discover Unique Places on Earth

San Pedro de Atacama is the gateway to the Atacama Desert. Your share of adventure and landscapes awaits in this region infamous for its climate yet undeniably picturesque. Begin with a morning stroll to the Puritama hot springs (or arrive late afternoon to soothe your muscles in the thermal waters). Then set out to conquer the Valley of the Moon and Valley of Mars, which will immerse you in truly extraterrestrial scenery. Take a pause at the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miñiques to refresh yourself during your excursions. Be sure to visit the Atacama salt flats where countless birds put on a show. In the evening, end with an astronomy session—the sight of the starry sky at San Pedro de Atacama will remain forever etched in your memory.

Climate

At 2,400 meters altitude, San Pedro de Atacama offers pleasant daytime temperatures between 18 and 25°C. The weather cools at nightfall, dropping below 0°C during winter (June to August). Rainfall is rare in the region.

San Pedro de Atacama lies more than 1,850 kilometers from the Chilean capital Santiago. It's not an easy destination to reach. If you want to travel by plane, the nearest airport is in Calama, about one hundred kilometers northwest of the village. The airport handles daily domestic flights from Santiago and weekly flights from Iquique, La Serena, Copiapo and Antofagasta. Plan for approximately two hours of driving to reach San Pedro from the airport.

The bus journey from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama requires considerable endurance, as it takes at least 22 hours of driving to reach Calama. You'll then need to take a local bus to reach your final destination. Fortunately, buses in South America offer good comfort levels: food and beverages available, reclining seats, air conditioning, and more.

The village is easily covered on foot. Travel agencies and hostels rent bicycles to explore nearby sites such as the Valley of the Moon and Valley of Mars. The most remote attractions, however, require a car.

What to Do in San Pedro de Atacama?

• Visit the Museo Arqueológico R.P. Gustavo Le Paige
• Admire the panorama of the village and Atacama Desert from the Pukará de Quitor fortress
• Relax in the Puritama hot springs
• Enjoy a bike ride through the Valley of the Moon and Valley of Mars
• Explore the various attractions of the Atacama Desert, and more