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About Sacred Earth Travel
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Included in the all inclusive packages are a wide range of excursions that allow guests to experience a very private glimpse into the serene beauty and majesty of the Atacama Desert landscapes. The options below are merely suggestions which can be adapted to individual preferences and interests. Keep in mind that high altitudes takes some getting used to. Excursions there, especially those of a physical nature, should not be attempted without adequate prior acclimatization.
Departure: In the afternoon
Car trip: 25 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Hiking shoes
We leave Awasi and head to the Natural Reserve, which is located some 15 minutes away in the middle of the Salt Range. The aptly named valley reflects the magic of this unearthly landscape. As the tour progresses, we find lookouts from which to observe the bizzarly sculpted rock formations, the result of erosion by wind and water, that have created a landscape reminiscent of the inhospitable beauty of the moon. The final moments of the sunset when, in a matter of seconds, luminous streaks bring out subtle coloring variation in the mountain vistas, is simply indescribable.
Departure: Morning or Afternoon
Car trip: 80 miles (round trip)
Duration: 4 hours approx.
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses; comfortable walking or hiking shoes
if the outing is in the afternoon: Windbreaker.
The car leaves Awasi heading south on the paved road to the Salt Lake. After some 60 miles we reach the town of Toconao, famous for its buildings of liparite volcanic stone. There, we can visit its historic church and bell tower and tour the stalls of craftspeople who offer their goods in the square. Next to Toconao is Jere creek, a canyon with the only running fresh water in these surroundings. This water has nurtured since time immemorial, a true orchard of fruit trees and cultivated vegetables. From here we continue to Chaxa pond, a National Reserve located by the Atacama Salt Lake. This pond is surrounded by salt crusts formed by the evaporation of salty ground water. In this setting we may observe flamingoes that inhabit the Salt Lake, as well as other native bird species. This is undoubtedly a place of captivating beauty where you can observe an incredible panorama across three mountain ranges - the Domeyko Range, the Salt Range and the Andes Range, a sight that becomes particularly splendid at dusk.
Duration: 3.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00 / 15:30 Return: 17:30
Van trip: 200 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy, but requires prior adaptation to the altitude
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Warm clothing (jacket, long pants, full shoes, hat)
Highly recommendable, as there are few places in the highlands which offer such a diversity. We leave Awasi heading south and visit the towns of Toconao and Socaire (10.600 ft). Along the way we will pass through different types of landscapes, from the driest dessert to small oases and mountain views. We will be able to see vicuñas, among other wild species. We will be surprised by the immensity and inhospitable beauty of the Tuyajtu and Aguas Calientes salt lakes, with their turquoise-colored ponds inhabited by ducks and flamingoes.
Departure: 9:30 / 15:30
Van trip: 23 miles (round trip)
Duration: 3 hours approx.
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Bathing suit, Sandals
We leave Awasi by car and head to the northern part of the Atacama Salt Lake, crossing part of the Ayllu that are farthest from San Pedro, and then turn onto a dirt road that passes through sparse vegetation and remarkable aridity. After some 11 miles we reach Cejar, a set of three ponds located in the middle of the Salt Lake in one of which we can bathe. Given its high degree of salt saturation, you can not only float on the water, but in fact it is impossible to sink, a phenomenon similar to what you can find in the Dead Sea (Israel). In this place we can watch birds that live in the Salt Lake zone, such as flamingoes and Andean gulls, and enjoy a privileged view of the surrounding mountain ranges whose colors contrast with the deep blue of the water. This outing is also possible by bicycle -a ride that takes approximately 1½- returning to the Hotel by car.
Duration: 3.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00 - Return: 17:30
Van trip: 125 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy, but requires prior adaptation to the altitude
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Warm clothing (jacket, long pants, walking shoes, hat)
Leaving San Pedro we take the road up to Jama Pass (13.800 ft) -which leads to Argentina- with the splendid setting of Licancabur Volcano (19.400 ft) and Juriques Volcano (18.800 ft), the unrivaled guardians of the Range.
We continue through the highlands, crossing swamps and ponds inhabited by wildlife, until we reach the incredible Pakana Monks rocky formations (15.100 ft), true marvels of nature. From here on we follow a track that takes us to huge rock cliffs that surround Tara Salt Lake, where we will enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch an experience that defies the limitations of language: it has to be experienced.
Departure: 9:00 - Return: 17:30
Van trip: 125 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy, but requires prior adaptation to the altitude
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Warm clothing (jacket, long pants, walking shoes, hat)
A true encounter with the highland landscape. We leave Awasi taking the road south and visit the towns of Toconao and Socaire (10.600 ft). Then, we follow the road to Sico Pass and take a the detour to Miscanti and Miñique Ponds, which are part of Los Flamencos National Reserve (14.100 ft). The main features of the place are its ponds and native birds such as the tagua and the blanquillo. This outing includes lunch and, possibly, an optional visit to Chaxas pond on the way back.
Departure: 6:00 - Return: 12:00
Van trip: 125 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy, but requires prior adaptation to the altitude
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Lots of warm clothing (jacket, long pants, walking shoes, hat)
We head north, gradually gaining altitude as we cross the highland and observe the very rich flora & fauna. After two hours on the road we reach the Tatio Geysers, intermittent springs that gush out as imposing steam and hot water columns. After spending some time exploring the place we will have breakfast, while enjoying the peculiarity of the fumaroles. Before returning to Awasi, we stop at the Puritama warm springs, where we can bathe and enjoy an appetizer (see Puritama).
Duration: 3.5 hours approx.
Departure: in the morning
Van trip: 38 miles (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Bathing suit, Sandals
The road to the hot springs provides a magnificent view of the Andean Range, with its marked changes of color in the formations and the vegetation, characterized by the appearance of the first high-altitude cacti and bushes. At the hot springs we follow the creek to the pools, which are surrounded by native vegetation that also acts as a shelter for birds.
There are 7 different pools to choose from, ranging in temperature from 86°F to 92°F, which makes them ideal for relaxation. The quality of the waters, the natural setting, and the gourmet appetizer we enjoy here, make this a moment of unforgettable communion with nature.
(Lunch is served at Awasi Lodge upon return)
Departure: 9:00
Van trip: 125 mi (round trip)
Duration: 8 hours approx.
Level of difficulty: Easy, but requires prior adaptation to the altitude
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Hiking shoes - warm clothing
After breakfast at Awasi, we head north, gradually gaining altitude, as we cross the highlands with its ponds and characteristic flora & fauna. After almost two hours we reach a turn off that takes us to the town of Caspana, whose inhabitants still farm the ancient terraces as in times gone by, and to an historic area with Inca-style rock buildings. In this setting full of history and verdure we stop for lunch. Continuing on our tour we pass the town of Chiu-Chiu, with its charming XVI century Church, dedicated to Saint Francis and famed to be the oldest church in Chile. Finally, we reach the Airport and thus conclude this part of the trip. Optional: the Tatio Geysers, if not visited before in the Tatio-Puritama outing.
Duration: 3.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00/15:00
Van trip: 125 mi (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy.
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses
This is not one of the most popular tours, but it is also especially attractive. We drive to a place known as Yerbas Buenas, where we find ancient petroglyphs carved on huge rock walls. The meaning of these carvings is remains a mystery. After travelling over a steep road we come to the town of Santiago del Rio Grande. From there we enjoy a spectacular view of the valley, its farming terraces and animal corrals, and the cacti that grow on the side of the creek. We can also take a walk around town and to the farming areas, or visit the church and the craftsmen who work with clay, utilizing ancestral techniques.
Duration: 2 hours approx.
Departure: 9:30/15:30
Car trip: 16 mi (round trip)
Hike: 3 mi
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Hiking shoes
This hike is one of those experiences that can expand one's personal horizons. After a 15 minute drive from Awasi, we reach a lookout from where we can admire the geological majesty of the Salt Range. The hike starts here and then continues on a narrow path following a ravine on one side. After going down a small dune we run into an open field which leads us to Kari canyon, a dry riverbed with some rock descents, grottoes and caves. This excursion has various entry and exit points. Each time of the year and each moment of the day may reveal different surprises, particularly on winter evenings, when the salt crusts crack and produce very evocative sounds.
Duration: 2.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00/15:00
Car trip: 37 mi (round trip)
Hike: 2
Level of difficulty: Intermediate-difficult
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Hiking shoes.8 mi
Diversity is the word that best describes this hike. Leaving Awasi by car, we take the road north to San Pedro and reach a valley called Guatin. We start the hike inside a creek, along a bank of the Bizama River. This is where the surprise begins: a profusion of cacti, different geological formations, small waterfalls, brooks, rocks ... all this gives the place a special charm. After hiking for two hours we reach an abandoned shepherd's ranch from which we start back.
Duration: 1.5 hours approx
Departure: 9:30-15:30
Van trip: 16 mi (round trip)
Foot hike: 3 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Hiking shoes
Leaving San Pedro by van we cross the Ayllu of Quitor. We then take a detour to the Salt Range via an old road that takes us to a tunnel which crosses the range. From here we start our hike, first traversing the tunnel and then climbing the range. Once we reach the top, the splendid view of the oases, the bizarre formations, and the panorama of the Andes and Domeyko ranges, make our effort well worthwhile. The descent, crossing a huge dune down to Death Valley, is a perfect finale to this hike.
Duration: 1.5 hours on foot approx
Departure: 9:30-15:30
Van trip: 14 mi (round trip)
Hike: 4 mi
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Hiking shoes
After a 20-minute van ride from Awasi we reach the small Vilama valley in the Salt Range where we start our walk up a path that climbs a slope for 10 minutes until we reach a flat zone where we are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Andes. Here we find a dwelling with ancient petroglyphs, the echoes of our ancestors. We walk across this dry plain until we reach a trail that leads us downhill to the winding Devil's Creek which connects with the fertile Catarpe valley.
Duration: 8 hours approx
Departure: 9:00
Van trip: 112 mi (round trip)
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Windbreaker
We head towards the town of Rio Grande. Along the road we stop for a close look at the marvelous Yerbas Buenas petroglyphs. We then take the road to the town of Matancilla, a area of valleys surrounded by multicolored hills: hues of gray, green, red and orange paint the hillsides. Touring these valleys by car or on foot, you may see a landscape that is completely different from what you see near San Pedro. An optional visit to Rio Grande takes one hour longer.
Duration: 2.5 hours approx
Departure: morning or afternoon
Car trip: 16 mi (round trip)
Hike: 3 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses
This excursion is a fascinating trip through time. We leave Awasi by van and head for Quitor Pukara, an Atacama fortress dating back to 1.000 AD. Located in the Ayllu of Quitor, it lies some 2 miles from San Pedro. From elevated position we enjoy a privileged view of the valley. Then we continue on to the town of Tulor, one of the first and most important Atacama settlements dating back to 800 BC. It is located some 6 mi from San Pedro. Here we will visit an archaeological dig and reconstructions of original homes that have been built according to archaeological criteria. For those who wish to immerse themselves in our history and in the Lickanantai culture, and understand why San Pedro is Chile's archaeological capital, this is an absolute must.
Duration: 2 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon
Tour on foot: 1,3 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses
This is a walk to get to know San Pedro and see beyond its restaurants and shops. We leave Awasi and head to the old downtown, with a guided tour of the 'Father LePaige' Museum, the town square, the town church, the house of Pedro de Valdivia, the craft market and the main street.
Duration: 1.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00/15:00
Bike Tour: 5 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses -Comfortable clothing and shoes - Hat
From Awasi we will tour some of the following San Pedro Ayllu (farming communities): Solor, Solcor, Sequitor, Larache, Quitor and Catarpe.
Duration: 2.5 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon
Length: 11 mi
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses -Comfortable clothing and shoes - Hat
We take off by bike from Awasi towards the road to Calama. We pedal on a slight climb up to the Death Valley entrance in the Salt Range, which we enter until the road once again starts to climb uphill. At this point we dismount and walk our bicycles over very sandy terrain for a few minutes. After we reach the highest point in the valley, where we can appreciate impressive views, we return via a very steep descent and again meet the paved road, which we pedal back to Awasi. See Death Valley.
Duration: 4 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon
Length: 28 mi
Level of difficulty: Difficult
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Comfortable clothing and shoes, Hat
Ideal for those who love adventure and enjoy physical exertion. We start out on bike from Awasi and head north until we reach an old cattle driving road that climbs steeply up to a tunnel. After the tunnel we go down to Patience Plain, a flat zone that connects to the paved road and then to Moon Valley. Crossing the Park we reach San Pedro again.
Duration: 2 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon
Length: 6 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses -Long pants - Hat
A horse ride at a placid gait around town, visiting some Ayllu near Awasi and traversing narrow alleys with houses typical of this zone. We can also go a bit further to visit other more distant Ayllu such as Solor, towards the south. Ideal for those who enjoy the communion with animals and nature.
Duration: 4 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon
Length: 12 mi
Level of difficulty: Intermediate - difficult. You require riding experience and mastery.
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses -Long pants - Hat
Here you will live the true flavor of adventure. We take the road from Awasi to Quitor Pukara. Crossing the San Pedro River several times we continue on to the Catarpe Ayllu, where we may trot and gallop. In this sector we take an old road up to the Salt Range until we reach an old tunnel. Shortly after, we will reach the highest part of this range and then continue trotting or galloping along the cliff cornices, enjoying panoramic views of all the San Pedro valley. The way back starts with a descent down large dunes until we connect with Death Valley, along which we continue until we return to the town at a gait.
Duration: 2 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon (recommended for a view of the sunset)
Length: 18 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy
What to bring along: Sunscreen - Sun glasses - Long pants - Hat - Adequate shoes - Backpack
The visit to Zapar will always remain in the memory of all those who love and are interested in the life and history of the local communities. We will tour an incredibly green canyon that suddenly crops up in the middle of a dune and cuts it in half. Down this canyon runs water that comes from the Andes Range. We can walk from Tambillo, surrounded by its amazing vegetation of Tamarugo trees, and reach Zapar crossing pasture zones that are archaeologically very important, as in pre-Columbian times Zapar was an important enclave linked to the Quitor pukara. Finally, we will stop for lunch at one of the local homes who will host us. The view of Atacama Salt Lake from here is one of the best there is. Another option: To visit the town on the way back from another outing (for instance: Highland lakes, Talabre, Chaxas), and enjoy an appetizer while we wait for the sunset.
Duration: on foot: 4 hours approx.
Departure: morning or afternoon (recommended for a view of the sunset)
Van trip: 45 min
Level of difficulty: Easy if done fully by car. If we opt for the hike, it is Intermediate to Difficult. The visit to Los Patos creek is not advisable for people prone to giddiness.
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses, Long pants, Ha,t, Adequate shoes, Backpack, Windbreaker
Talabre is a farming-pastoral community with a population of some 100 inhabitants who keep their traditions and customs alive. Walking its streets, we can admire the style of its buildings, its church, its history. We can continue on by van and then walk down some 600 ft to admire petroglyphs, ancient Atacama vestiges. Back to the town we will have lunch at the home of a local family. Then we will have two options: one is to return to San Pedro; the second, to continue either to Chaxas lake or to Zapar, end see these places at sunset. We might also visit Old Talabre, the original setting of the current hamlet, with its ruins, its ancient graveyard, and its splendid view of Lascar volcano.
If we make this a full-day trip, we can start at Talabre, walk 4½ miles, and then continue on an old shepherd path to Los Patos creek where we can have a picnic. At this place we can appreciate rupestrian art and old constructions. Another option: Visit the town on our way back from an excursion (i.e. Highland lakes, Talabre, Chaxas) and wait there for the sunset while we enjoy an appetizer. A unique experience.
Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours approx.
Departure: 9:00 / 15:00
Car trip: 16 mi
Level of difficulty: Easy. A small 5-minute walk up a trail to visit the Inca tambo.
What to bring along: Sunscreen, Sun glasses
We leave Awasi heading north, pass de Quitor Ayllu -famous for its pukara fortress (see Quitor)- and cross the San Pedro river. There we find ourselves in the Tambillo and Devil's Creek area, where may take a walk. Then we continue on to the Ayllu at Catarpe, where we have lunch in an old adobe house. This property has a wonderful garden orchard with aged trees that invite us to rest. The contrast between the verdure of the orchard and the unrelenting desert surrounding it is quite surreal. The traces of the past are all around us here, reminding us of the immemorial passage of time and the countless generations that have defied the elements in this challenging, yet starkly beautiful place. Then we continue on to an old Inca tambo -a highway resting place- and the San Isidro church, faithfully cared for by descendants of the family that built it. After seeing all the valley, we visit an old Salt Range tunnel from where we have an imposing view of the valley below.
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