If you’re heading to San Pedro de Atacama, chances are you’ve heard about the Valle de la Luna—the Valley of the Moon—and its otherworldly landscapes. For just $32 per person, you can join a 4-hour guided tour that takes you through some of the most iconic sights in this stark, beautiful desert. From Amphitheater to Major Dune, and the Tres Marias Formation to the Viewpoint of Ckari, this tour packs in a series of stops that showcase the geomorphological marvels that make this area so unique.

One thing we particularly appreciate is the mix of guided walking tours and scenic viewpoints. It allows us to truly get close to the formations, enjoy the sweeping vistas, and learn from guides who seem genuinely passionate and knowledgeable—like Nicolas, who earned praise for his care and insights. Another highlight is the sunset at Mirador de Ckari, which offers a breathtaking moment that feels worth every penny.

A possible consideration is the length of the stops, especially if you prefer more time for photography or wandering. Some reviewers mentioned that the tour moves quickly, but if you’re eager to see the highlights and listen to expert commentary, it’s a fair trade-off.

This tour is ideal for those who love geology, stunning landscapes, and engaging guides. It suits travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and are prepared with good shoes and sun protection. Given the reviews praising guides for their knowledge and friendliness, this experience will especially appeal to curious travelers wanting an authentic and educational desert adventure.

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $32, this tour offers great value for a comprehensive visit to Valle de la Luna and surrounding formations.
Expert Guides: Many reviewers highlight guides like Nicolas, Ernie, and Cris for their knowledge and care.
Stunning Views: From Duna Mayor to sunset at Ckari, scenery here is genuinely breathtaking.
Multiple Stops: The itinerary includes key highlights, with opportunities for photos, hiking, and learning.
Limited Time for Extra Activities: The tour’s focus on efficiency means less time for lingering or exploring on your own.
Climate Preparedness: Bring sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and water to fully enjoy the experience.

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A Detailed Look at the Moon Valley Tour

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What’s Included and How it Adds Value

For $32, your fee covers the transportation, guided visits to major sights, and the chance to experience some of the desert’s most famous landscapes. Keep in mind, the Entrance Ticket to the National Reserve (costing around $10,800 Chilean Pesos, or roughly $13 USD) is not included—you’ll need to buy this in advance at valledelaluna.com. While this is an additional expense, it grants you access to the protected areas that are the core of this tour, ensuring you’re not limited by potential closures or restricted hours.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Starting at Tocopilla 418, the tour begins with a short bus ride, giving you a chance to settle in and get briefed on safety and what to expect. The first significant stop is Duna Mayor, the largest sand dune, where you’ll have a chance to hike, take photos, and enjoy sweeping views of the desert landscape. It’s a great spot to see the scale of these natural formations up close, and many travelers comment positively on how knowledgeable their guide, such as Cris or Nicolas, is about the area’s geology.

Next, the tour moves to Valle de la Luna, a landscape that looks as if it belongs on another planet. You’ll get multiple opportunities here—each with a guided walk and scenic viewpoints. The itinerary includes a visit to the Amphitheater, a natural formation that resembles a theatre, and a chance to hike around Tres Marias, an intriguing set of three towering rock formations—Los Tres Vigilantes—offering excellent photo ops.

Sunset at Mirador de Ckari

The highlight for many is the sunset at Ckari or Piedras del Coyote, where the changing light transforms the landscape into a canvas of glowing reds and oranges. The views are spectacular, and the guides make sure everyone gets a good vantage point. As one reviewer noted, “the sunset views were unbeatable,” making it clear why this is a must-see.

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The Experience on the Ground

While the tour involves several scenic stops and hikes, expect a fair amount of walking and standing. The guided hikes are well-paced, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring sunscreen and water. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for young children under 8, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues, as per the provider’s restrictions.

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What Travelers Love (and Some Caveats)

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeability of the guides. Ellery loved Ernie’s enthusiasm, saying, “Our guide Ernie was awesome!” Kayla noted how Cris’s explanations made the sights even more meaningful and how the sunset views were “unbeatable.” Nicolas was appreciated for his care and ability to bring the group together.

However, some travelers felt the timing was tight, especially on the longer afternoon visit to the sunset spot, which lasts around 70 minutes. If you prefer more relaxed visits or extra time for photography, you might find the schedule a little rushy.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable bus, and the group size isn’t specified but tends to be manageable for guided tours. This makes for a friendly, social atmosphere without feeling too crowded—ideal for those wanting to connect with fellow travelers.

Practical Tips

Bring sturdy shoes, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Buy your entrance ticket beforehand to save time.
Be prepared for the desert sun during the day and the cooler temperatures at sunset.
Arrive early at the meeting point (Tocopilla 418) in summer at 15:50 or winter at 14:50 to ensure you don’t miss the start.

Who Would Benefit Most from This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers and landscape lovers who want a well-organized, affordable way to see the highlights of Valle de la Luna and surroundings. It’s highly recommended for those who appreciate guided insights and want to maximize their time with minimal fuss. Because of the focus on hiking and scenic viewpoints, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable on their feet and prepared for sunny conditions.

If you’re interested in stunning geological formations, sunset views, and learning about the landscape from passionate guides, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and education at a very reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

The Shared Moon Valley Tour in San Pedro de Atacama offers a practical and enriching way to explore the desert’s most iconic sites. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without breaking the bank.

While the schedule can be busy, the quality of the scenery and stories shared by guides like Nicolas or Cris make it worthwhile. The sunset views alone are worth the trip, making this experience an enduring memory of the Atacama’s surreal landscape.

If you’re after an authentic, well-guided, and visually stunning desert adventure, this tour hits all the right notes. Just come prepared for a full day of walking, sun, and spectacular views.

FAQ

Do I need to buy my entrance ticket separately?
Yes, the tour does not include the entrance fee to the National Reserve, which costs around $10,800 Chilean Pesos. You should purchase this beforehand at valledelaluna.com.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, with multiple stops, hikes, and a sunset viewing.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing for both hot daytime conditions and cooler evenings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, due to walking and activity levels.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and Spanish, with live guides providing explanations in both languages.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Tocopilla 418 in San Pedro de Atacama and finishes back in the town center.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Duna Mayor, Tres Marias, and especially the sunset at Ckari offer fantastic photo opportunities, though timing is tight, so be ready to shoot quickly.

In the end, this tour provides a balanced, authentic experience of some of the most striking landscapes in the Atacama Desert—well worth considering if you’re looking to combine natural beauty with guided insight.