Atacama, the driest desert on earth, occupies an extensive stretch between the Altiplano and the coast. Despite of the inhospitable nature of this desert, it is also the site of some of the oldest archeological finds in Chile, bearing witness to the fact that people have long inhabited this land wherever water created a green oasis in this this barren land. Paradoxically it is here that one encounters the most bizarre manifestations of water.

San Pedro de Atacama - the legendary oasis and gateway to the Atacama desert has been settled since pre-Incan times. Today it is a major hub for travellers exploring this ancient and strangely otherworldy region. Impressive rock fortresses cling to the steep mountains and stand guard over the green valley. In contrast, the eerily silent landscape of the nearby Valley of the Moon with its tiny, but beautiful salt ponds and the backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes bears few signs of life. At the huge Atacama Salt Lake, on the other hand, a former inland sea formed millions of years ago, many species of birds can be observed. The bizarre shapes of the salt crust formations that cover the far stretching plain and the mirror like lagoons that reflect the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, is a stunning sight.

Higher up we come upon the El Tatio, the highest geothermal field on earth; a multitude of fumaroles, small geysers, multicolored craters and steam rising from the soil. Nearby hot springs invite you to a comforting bath. What an amazing variety of manifestations water can take in the world's driest desert!

Another rewarding destination is the Los Flamencos Natural Reserve at 100 km / 65 mi south of San Pedro with its pleasant highland lagoons Miscanti and Miniques; flocks of flamingoes and rare birds can be observed here in their breeding grounds.

On the coast, Antofagasta is the largest city of the region. It emerged due to the mining industry, which boomed here during the 19th century. With 20 km / 12 miles of beachfront and a mild, dry climate, Antofagasta has also become a popular, year-round beach resort. The highlight of its shoreline is the Portada, an enormous rock located just to the north of the town, which the sea steadily eroded into a dramatic natural arch. Today Antofagasta is still an important port for the copper that is mined in Chuquicamata - the largest open-pit mine in the world.

Day 1: Calama - San Pedro - Moon Valley

Upon arrival at Calama Airport your guide will meet you and take you to San Pedro de Atacama. After driving through the desert, the fertile oasis of San Pedro will seem like a mirage. There is a sense of ancient history here - and indeed, this oasis town has been inhabited since pre-Incan times. Numerous archeological sites in the surrounding area bear silent witness to these bygone civilizations. San Pedro has a fascinating and very well presented archeological museum, which is well worth a visit. Among its immense collection of pre-Hispanic artefacts it also features some amazingly well preserved mummies. The Spanish conquistadores arrived here in 1540; the local church, built in 1577, is the first of many mark the Spaniards have imposed on the region and their influence has shaped the town ever since. In the evening we will venture out to the famous Valley of the Moon, located just outside San Pedro. Sunset is the best time to see this lunar landscape as it becomes increasingly beautiful and surreal in the fading light, which brings out the amazing colours of the rocks. Overnight at San Pedro.

Day 2: Highland Lagoons - Atacama Salt Lake

In the morning we will take a trip to ascend to the highlands to visit Miscanti and the Miñiques lagoons at an altitude beyond 4000 m /13,100 ft in the Los Flamencos National Reserve. Miscanti means 'toad' in Atacameño and refers to a time when the lagoon was full of toads. The intorduction of trout has wiped them out so that today only the name remains. The lagoon, framed by the towing mountains and glistening white banks is a sight to behold. In the afternoon we will return to San Pedro, via the gigantic Salar de Atacama, the biggest salt lake in all of Chile, where Río San Pedro trickles away into the endless plain. The Salar is a rich bird habitat and 3 of the world's 5 species of flamingo can be seen here. Overnight in San Pedro. (B,BL)

Day 3: San Pedro - Quitor - Tulor - Puritama Hot Springs

On your way to a relaxing bath at the tranquil hot springs of Puritama you will stop at Quitor and Tulor, two sites of pre-Incan origin, which played a key role in the colonization of the valley. The Spanish conquistadores conquered Fort Quitor in 1540, defeating the Inca troops who, in turn, had captured it from the pre-Incan cultures and had extended the fortification. For the evening you can book an optional 3-hour star-gazing excursion in the outskirts of San Pedro. Overnight in San Pedro. (B,BL)

Day 4: Tara Salt Lake

After breakfast we will take a ride through fantastic volcanic landscapes and broad plains to the salt lake of Tara, situated in a remote part of the Los Flamencos National Park. It is the most beautiful salt lake in the region, and set within the most incredible scenery. Archaeological sites of interest and prehistoric paintings abound in the region. Llamas and vicuñas are common sights throughout the trip. (B,BL)

Day 5: El Tatio Geyser - Caspana - Chiu Chiu - Calama

We will depart early morning to see the breathtaking geysers of El Tatio - the highest geothermal field in the world. The display is most impressive in the morning hours. Spurts of steam shoot out of various blowholes, and brilliant salt crust on the banks of boiling ponds reflect the metal-blue sky at dawn. Enjoy this natural phenomenon before continuing to the picturesque village of Caspana. Afterwards we will visit (if road conditions allow) Pukara de Turi - the largest Inca fortress in Chile. Declared a National Monument in 1971, it is still an insider's tip despite of its fascinating ambience and impressive structures. You will continue your excursion to the tiny village of Chiu Chiu, located on the former "Inca Trail", the main trade route that cut through this valley. Trade continued well into the 19th century until the opening of the railway in 1890 offered a more efficient alternative. Chiu Chiu is known today for being home to the oldest church of Chile. From there you will return to Calama to catch your connecting flight.(B,BL)

Rates for 2010/2011 - per person

Includes:

4 overnights with breakfast, 3 lunch boxes, transfers and excursions with driver and bilingual guide, entrance fees.

Not Included:

International or domestic air fares, meals not specified in the itinerary, personal expenses, tips or gratuities, travel insurance of any kind

Recommendations:

Both light and warm clothes; trekking shoes; sun hat, woolly hat, windbreak, lip balm, strong sun-block; sun glasses; swimsuit

Rates may vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

For further information and booking inquiries please send us and e-mail.

HOTELS USED FOR THIS ITINERARY:

Hotel Altiplanico Hotel Altiplanico is an exceptional,impressive hotel; all rooms feature a unique design, built completely out of adobe which gives the hotel a special local identity. From the inner courtyard you can enjoy a great view of the snow-capped volcanoes. The hotel is situated outside of San Pedro, at 10 minutes walking distance from the center. The hotel features 21 rooms, all with a terrace facing the Andes. Additional services include: swimming pool, snack bar, bar, cafeteria, Internet access, private parking and laundry service.