Atacama Desert Holidays

San Pedro de Atacama is beautifully located in the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. The surrounding area consists of barren moonscapes, vast salt flats, strange rock formations, multi-coloured lakes and geysers. Excursions to these areas are the main attractions when visiting San Pedro, although you can also just relax around your hotel swimming pool, enjoying the views of the 5,900-metre high Licancabur volcano.

The area is also the most important archaeological site in mainland Chile and was home to several pre-Columbian cultures, with ruins visible in the surrounding desert. The town has been inhabited since the 15th century.

San Pedro itself is a pretty town of narrow streets and adobe houses with an attractive main square. It has become a centre for tourism, with people coming to visit the beautiful desert are, and there are many restaurants and bars.

Find out some of the most popular things to do around San Pedro de Atacama.

Key Facts

Population: 5,000 (San Pedro de Atacama)
Altitude: 2,400 metres
Climate: Daytime highs in the Atacama Desert are around 20°C – 25°C and night-time temperatures are around 12°C. In
winter (June to August), temperatures can drop to freezing or even below. The weather is usually very dry with
no clouds in the sky. However, from January to March, some rain is possible.