Excursion to Rainbow Valley and Petroglyphs, Yerbas Buenas

Experience the Atacama’s Colors and History in just a few hours

Imagine waking up early in San Pedro de Atacama, bundling up against temperatures that can plunge to -10°C, and heading out to discover some of the region’s most striking natural and cultural sights. For just $45 per person, this excursion to Rainbow Valley and Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs offers a quick but memorable dive into the land’s vibrant geology and ancient art. Led by passionate guides like Alex or Ernesto, you’ll spend roughly two hours exploring colorful rock formations, learning about the land’s formation, and marveling at ancient carvings.

What we love most about this tour is the close-up views of Rainbow Valley’s vividly colored rocks — a photographer’s dream — and the insightful storytelling at Yerbas Buenas, where petroglyphs tell stories of the indigenous Atacameño people. Plus, the included breakfast with a view makes the early start worthwhile. However, be prepared for the altitude, around 3,500 meters above sea level, which can be a challenge for some travelers. This tour suits those with a moderate physical fitness level who appreciate natural beauty, history, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Short & Inspiring: A quick 2-hour trip that packs a punch of natural beauty and culture.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Alex and Ernesto bring enthusiasm, humor, and knowledge, making the experience engaging.
• Affordable Value: At $45, with included breakfast and hotel pickup, it offers great value for such a rich experience.
• Unique Sites: Rainbow Valley’s multi-colored rocks and Yerbas Buenas petroglyphs are highlights not to be missed.
• High Satisfaction: Consistently high ratings thanks to beautiful scenery and excellent guiding.
• Altitude Consideration: Be aware of the 3,500-meter height; suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.

Exploring Rainbow Valley and Petroglyphs: An Authentic Atacama Experience

The Highlights: Rainbow Valley and Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs

This tour takes you into two very different but equally compelling parts of the Atacama landscape. First, Rainbow Valley (Valle Arcoiris) is famous for its spectacular geological formations. You’ll stand among towering rocks painted in a palette of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns — created over millions of years as mineral-rich waters deposited different colors. The scenery here isn’t just pretty; it’s a vivid reminder of Earth’s geological history.

Next, the tour visits the Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, where ancient rock carvings tell stories of the region’s original inhabitants. These petroglyphs are more than just art — they are a direct link to the culture of the Atacameño people, leaving behind a visual record of their spiritual beliefs, hunting practices, and daily life. As one reviewer mentioned, “Alex took time to explain things to us in English even though we were the only two speaking the language,” making the history accessible and engaging.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Start early at 7:00 am to beat some of the crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures. The tour begins with hotel pickup, ensuring a hassle-free start. The first stop is 40 minutes at Valle Arcoiris, where you’ll walk among impressive fumaroles and geothermal activity. Dress warmly — it can be freezing, especially at altitude — and be prepared for photo opportunities with unique landscapes.

After about 40 minutes, the group heads to Yerbas Buenas, spending another 40 minutes exploring the petroglyphs. It’s a chance to see rock art dating back centuries, with explanations from your guide about their significance. Many reviews highlight the informative guidance here; one traveler said, “Ernesto made the trip so fun and taught us a lot.”

The tour wraps up with a delicious breakfast — often with a view — and a smooth drop-off back at your hotel.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates on a shared service basis, with small groups (max 12 travelers), which encourages interaction and personalized attention. The transportation is comfortable enough for a day of sightseeing, and the pickup and drop-off service means you don’t need to worry about logistics.

Pricing: Is It Worth It?

At $45 per person, including hotel pickup, breakfast, and guided commentary, this tour offers exceptional value. The only extra cost is the $10,000 CLP entrance fee for the sites, which is quite reasonable given the experience. Many reviews praise the quality of the included breakfast, often describing it as “delicious” and “a treat after the early start.”

The Guides: Passionate and Knowledgeable

Reviews consistently mention guides like Alex and Ernesto as the tour’s best feature. Their fluency in English, warm personalities, and depth of knowledge make the experience richer. One commenter noted, “He was Sincerely happy to spend a day in the desert with us,” which shows the care guides put into their work.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many rave about the stunning scenery and unique geology. One reviewer wrote, “The Rainbow Valley is beautiful — like nothing I’ve ever seen before,” highlighting its visual impact. Others appreciated the historical insights at Yerbas Buenas, saying, “The petroglyphs are incredibly interesting and different from what we’d seen before.” The breakfast is also frequently praised, with comments about it being “delicious” and “full of variety,” adding an extra touch of comfort to the early morning.

Considerations for Travelers

Because the tour reaches around 3,500 meters altitude, some travelers might feel the effects of high elevation — such as mild dizziness or fatigue. It’s recommended to have moderate physical fitness and to stay well-hydrated. Also, dressing warmly is essential, especially if visiting Rainbow Valley early in the morning. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy natural beauty, geology, and history, and who don’t mind a small group setting.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This short, focused excursion is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Atacama’s vibrant landscapes and ancient culture without dedicating an entire day. It’s ideal for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy walking and exploring. If you’re a photographer, you’ll love the opportunity to capture Rainbow Valley’s colors. History buffs will appreciate the insight into indigenous petroglyphs. It’s also a great choice if you value guides who are enthusiastic and well-informed, making the experience more engaging.

This tour is particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate value for money — especially with the included breakfast and hotel pickup — but should be aware of the altitude and early start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, a shared guided service, a breakfast, and drop-off back at your accommodation. Entrance tickets are not included; you pay $10,000 CLP per person at the sites.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but rewarding trip.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly — layers are advised — and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and cameras for photos. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for walking around the sites.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, but the minimum age is 7 years per agency policy. Kids should be comfortable at high altitude.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is often booked about 33 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What are the main features of Rainbow Valley?
Expect vividly colored rocks, geothermal fumaroles, and impressive geological formations that look like they belong on another planet.

What is the significance of Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs?
They are rock carvings left by indigenous people, offering a glimpse into their culture, beliefs, and daily life.

Can I do this tour if I have altitude sickness?
Caution is advised. The tour reaches around 3,500 meters, so if you’re sensitive to altitude, consult with your doctor and consider your personal health.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

This guided excursion to Rainbow Valley and Petroglyphs offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and cultural history. With passionate guides, stunning landscapes, and a well-organized trip, it’s a wonderful way to get a taste of what makes the Atacama so special. Whether you’re into geology, photography, or simply want to see vibrant landscapes, this tour delivers on all fronts — just remember to dress warmly and pace yourself at altitude. It’s a memorable, value-packed outing that’ll leave you with plenty of photos and stories to take home.