Atacama, Rutas de Los Salares

When you think of the Atacama Desert, images of vast salt flats, colorful lagoons, and rugged volcanoes probably come to mind. For those wanting to experience this otherworldly landscape without spending days on the road, the Rutas de Los Salares tour offers a perfect balance of highlights and comfort. Priced at $84 per person, it’s a full-day adventure that takes you into some of the most striking areas around San Pedro de Atacama, with a focus on natural beauty, wildlife, and incredible vistas.

We loved how compact but comprehensive this tour is — it hits several key sights, offers well-organized stops, and includes meals, making it a great value for those looking for an authentic experience without overextending themselves. And the fact that it’s limited to just 10 participants means you’ll get a more personal, flexible feel.

However, a word of caution: since the tour reaches altitudes of 4,800 meters, it’s best suited for travelers who’ve already done a couple of days of acclimatization. The high-altitude nature is part of what makes this experience so memorable, but it’s good to be prepared physically.

This adventure is ideal for those who appreciate stunning views, wildlife spotting, and the thrill of crossing an international border—all wrapped into a manageable, well-paced day. If you’re eager to see the salt flats, volcanoes, and lagoons, and enjoy a small-group setting, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• Excellent value with included breakfast and lunch for a full-day experience.
• Intimate group size (limited to 10), providing more personalized attention.
• Spectacular views of Licancabur volcano and other landmarks.
• Wildlife sightings like flamingos, gulls, and culpeo foxes add a special touch.
• High-altitude adventure, reaching nearly 4,800 meters — suitable for those acclimated.
• Departure flexibility, with a start time between 8:00 am and 8:30 am.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Early Departure and Route

The tour begins with a prompt departure between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, giving you a head start before the desert heats up. The route takes you along the international border to Argentina—a journey that’s as much about the scenery as the crossing itself. Be aware that the drive involves a significant elevation gain, reaching 4,000 meters early on, with the highest point at 4,800 meters. This is quite high, so if you’re not yet acclimated, you might feel some shortness of breath or fatigue — but it’s well worth the effort for the views.

Breakfast and Refreshments

A lovely touch is the included breakfast, which is essential given the early start and high-altitude adventure. Expect simple, hearty fare to energize you for the day, often enjoyed with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Quepiaco Bofedal and Volcano Views

One of the highlights is exploring Quepiaco Bofedal, a wetland area with vibrant birdlife and stunning scenery. Here, you’ll get to admire the Licancabur volcano, a perfect symmetrical cone that offers excellent photo opportunities. The Monjes de la Pacana, a unique formation of volcanic peaks, also catch your eye during this stop, adding to the sense of being in a truly alien landscape.

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Salt Flats and Lagoons

Next comes the Aguas Calientes salt flats and the Salar Quisquiro. These expansive white plains are home to flamingos, Andean gulls, and possibly culpeo foxes, according to the tour details. The sheer scale of these flats creates a surreal environment, reminiscent of a lunar landscape, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. Watching flamingos wade through the shallow waters is a memorable experience and a highlight for bird lovers.

Lunch in the Desert

After a morning of exploration, the tour includes a lunch in the desert, a surprisingly relaxing and flavorful break amid the rugged scenery. Expect local or simple but tasty fare, often enjoyed with views of distant mountains or salt flats, making the meal part of the adventure.

Wildlife Encounter and Scenic Return

The possibility of spotting wildlife like flamingos, gulls, and the elusive culpeo fox adds an element of thrill — especially since the tour guide, Ulises, is praised for explaining everything clearly (per a traveler review). The return journey wraps up around 3:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward or continue exploring San Pedro.

What We Think About the Experience

This tour’s biggest strength is its ability to combine multiple iconic sights into a single day without feeling rushed. The stunning views from high vantage points give travelers a true sense of the desert’s vastness and silence. The wildlife sightings, particularly flamingos, bring a touch of life to these otherwise stark environments.

Plus, the small group size enhances the experience — it feels less like a tourist herd and more like a shared adventure. The guide’s knowledge and clear explanations make the journey informative without overwhelming.

On the downside, the altitude might be a challenge for some. Travelers not used to high elevations could feel the effects, so proper acclimatization is recommended. Also, because the itinerary involves crossing into Argentina, expect some border formalities, though these are generally straightforward.

How This Tour Offers Good Value

While $84 might sound modest, it’s important to consider what’s included: breakfast, lunch, and a guided experience. The sightseeing itself — salt flats, volcano views, and wildlife — costs nothing at the park entrance, but the guided knowledge, transportation, and meals create a package that’s both convenient and enriching. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable taste of the desert’s best spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover eager to see flamingos, salt flats, and volcanoes, this tour will satisfy. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group adventures, and the inclusion of meals makes it easier to relax rather than worry about finding food during a busy day. It’s also suitable for travelers who have already acclimated to high altitudes — since the elevation plays a significant role in the experience.

People looking for a more leisurely, guided day with authentic insights into the landscape will find this particularly appealing. It’s ideal for visitors who want to tick off key sights efficiently but with enough time to appreciate each spot.

Final Thoughts on the Rutas de Los Salares Tour

This tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded, scenic day in the Atacama Desert that balances highlights with comfort. The stunning vistas of volcanoes, salt flats, and lagoons create memories that last long after you leave the desert. The inclusion of meals and a knowledgeable guide means you won’t be left guessing or hungry, and small-group sizes ensure a more personalized experience.

While the altitude might be a concern for some, those who are prepared and acclimated will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for visitors with a limited schedule who still want to explore the core sights without sacrificing comfort or depth.

For anyone eager to see Chile’s wild and surreal landscapes in a single day, this tour offers excellent value, memorable scenery, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s a memorable way to experience the quiet grandeur of the Atacama.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with a start time between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, and return around 3:30 pm.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes breakfast, lunch, a guided explanation of the sites, and transportation in a small group setting.

Is this tour suitable for people with altitude concerns?
The tour reaches 4,800 meters at the highest point, so it’s best for travelers who have already done a couple of days of acclimatization and are comfortable at high altitude.

What wildlife might I see?
Likely sightings include flamingos, Andean gulls, and culpeo foxes. The chances of wildlife sightings are good but depend on the day.

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

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring or do?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour, aligning with park regulations and ensuring a safe environment for all.

To sum it up, the Atacama, Rutas de Los Salares tour delivers a well-paced, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s particularly suited for those who want a taste of the desert’s most striking features without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Whether you’re a landscape enthusiast or a wildlife watcher, this trip offers a memorable glimpse into the rugged beauty of northern Chile.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby