Details for San Pedro de Atacama

The best time to visit San Pedro de Atacama is during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) when the weather is mild and the skies are clear, ideal for stargazing.

Key attractions include the Valle de la Luna with its moon-like landscape, the El Tatio Geysers, and the stunning salt flats of Salar de Atacama.

A stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended to explore the main attractions, enjoy excursions, and have time for activities like stargazing and visiting nearby sites.

Try the traditional Chilean dish pastel de choclo, a corn pie, and sample llama meat, which is a local specialty often served in stews or grilled.

The nearest airport is in Calama, about 60 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car for the scenic drive to San Pedro de Atacama.

Popular day trips include visiting the Altiplanic Lagoons, exploring the Atacama Desert's unique landscapes, and checking out the ancient petroglyphs in Yerbas Buenas.

The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP), and it's advisable to have some cash on hand as not all places accept credit cards.