The driest desert in the world offers much more than sand dunes. With a thousand kilometers of coastline, 6000 meter volcanoes, 3,000 year old ruins, the highest geyser field in the world, hot springs, white adobe villages, and massive salt flats dotted with pink flamingoes, the great Atacama offers surprises for everyone.

San Pedro de Atacama is the undisputed focal point of tourism options in the Atacama Desert. Located one hour from the airport of Calama, San Pedro is a small village located at the edge of a vast salt flat and surrounded by volcanoes. It has experienced a boom in hotels and four and five star all inclusive options. It is also a place that one can visit more economically, assuring lodging beforehand and choosing day activities from some of the local operators.

For those looking for superb packages that include all transport, food, day excursions and lodging in interested hotels, our suggestions follow. Ideally, one should spend at least three nights in San Pedro. After all, it’s not everyday you happen to find yourself in the Atacama Desert!