VALLEY OF THE MOON

VALLEY OF THE MOON: A Journey Through Chile’s Otherworldly Landscape

If you’re headed to San Pedro de Atacama and craving a taste of the desert’s most captivating sights, the Valley of the Moon tour offers a fantastic afternoon escape. For $58 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours exploring one of the most photogenic spots in the Atacama Desert — a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. Guided by bilingual experts (Spanish and English), this tour takes you from the heart of the driest place on earth to a world of fantastical rock formations, salt sheets, and sweeping views that will likely stay with you long after you leave.

We particularly appreciate how this tour balances visual spectacle and authentic experience. The visit to iconic formations such as the Tres Marías, the Canyon, and the Amphitheater offers both dramatic scenery and excellent photo opportunities. The highlight, for many, is the sunset at Licanantay viewpoint, where you can watch the desert change colors as large volcanoes loom on the horizon. One of the best parts? The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, making it a convenient and educational experience.

A possible consideration? Entrance fees to the Valley of the Moon are not included in the tour price—at CLP$10,800 for adults—so budgeting for this extra expense is wise. Also, since the tour runs for a fixed four hours, it’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules who want a manageable peek into this otherworldly terrain. If you’re looking for an immersive full-day adventure, this may feel a bit brief, but for a focused, scenic experience, it hits the mark.

This tour works well for nature lovers, photographers, or those simply wanting to see an extraordinary landscape without a long hike. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a taste of the desert’s most iconic features without stress or complicated logistics.

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Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: Features formations like Tres Marías, Canyon, and Amphitheater.
• Sunset views: The sunset from Licanantay viewpoint offers unforgettable colors and scenery.
• Simplified logistics: Includes transportation and bilingual guide, making it easy to enjoy hassle-free.
• Additional costs: Entrance fee to Valle de la Luna is extra, so plan accordingly.
• Duration: A manageable 4-hour tour, perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• Authentic experience: Guided commentary enhances understanding of the landscape’s geological and natural significance.

A Closer Look at the Valley of the Moon Tour

An Introduction to the Landscape

Starting from San Pedro de Atacama, the journey heads into the Cordillera de la Sal, a salt mountain range that sets the stage for the otherworldly scenery ahead. The desert’s extreme dryness makes the formations stand out sharply against the sky, giving the impression of a landscape that might have come from a distant planet. Our guide, often providing bilingual commentary, explains the natural forces that have carved these features over millennia, adding educational value to the visual feast.

Visiting the Iconic Rock Formations

The Tres Marías are three towering rock formations resembling women standing side by side, a favorite for photographers and a fun starting point. The Canyon offers a narrow passage lined with salt and volcanic rocks, an impressive display of erosion’s artistry. The Amphitheater, with its curved walls and natural acoustics, provides a dramatic backdrop that’s almost too surreal for real life.

One reviewer notes, “The formations are so unique — it feels like you’re on another planet,” which captures how striking these natural sculptures are. Another mentions how the guide’s explanations made the experience more meaningful, shedding light on how wind, rain, and salt have sculpted these features over ages.

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Sunset at Licanantay Viewpoint

The final act of the tour is the sunset at Licanantay, where the shifting light transforms the landscape into a canvas of oranges, reds, and purples. Large volcanic structures loom in the distance, adding depth and drama. As one traveler put it, “Watching the desert change color as the sun dips behind the volcanoes was a memory I’ll cherish forever.” This peaceful moment offers photographers and nature lovers a perfect opportunity to savor the landscape’s quiet majesty.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation is included, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating the vast desert alone. The group size tends to be small and intimate, fostering a more personal experience. The guide’s bilingual skills help ensure everyone understands the geological and cultural context, enriching the visit.

Remember, the entrance fee to Valle de la Luna is extra, so factor that into your budget — it’s currently CLP$10,800 for adults and CLP$5,400 for seniors. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, this adds some cost but is well worth the price for access to the protected site.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple comments mention how the sunset alone justifies the price, with many describing it as “breathtaking” and “magical.” The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational. Some note that the 4-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing, while a couple mention it being a little rushed if you want ample time at each stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a convenient, well-guided way to see the most photogenic landmarks of the Valley of the Moon without extensive walking or hiking, this tour is ideal. It suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences with insightful commentary and stunning views, especially those who want to catch the sunset at a scenic lookout. It’s also a good fit for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to tick off a must-see attraction in the Atacama Desert.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For anyone eager to see the epic landscapes of northern Chile without overdoing it, this Valley of the Moon tour offers exceptional value. The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the highlights, but short enough to leave room for other adventures in San Pedro. The inclusion of transportation and a bilingual guide simplifies logistics, letting you focus on the scenery and your photos.

The cost is reasonable, especially considering the access to the site and the guided insights. While the entrance fee is extra, many travelers find it worth the investment for the chance to walk through what feels like a Martian landscape or watch a sunset that blazes with color. If you’re a lover of geological wonders, landscape photography, or simply want a peaceful moment at sunset, this tour will not disappoint.

For those who prefer a more immersive experience or a longer exploration, you might consider additional tours for a full day. But for a focused taste of the desert’s most iconic terrain, this trip delivers in both visual splendor and educational richness.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included, making it easy to reach the Valley of the Moon without renting a vehicle or navigating on your own.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, providing a comfortable window to visit the main sites and enjoy the sunset.

Are bilingual guides available?
Absolutely. The guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and a more engaging experience.

What are the key attractions on this tour?
You’ll visit the Tres Marías, the Canyon, the Amphitheater, and end with sunset views from Licanantay.

Is the entrance to Valle de la Luna included?
No, the entrance fee (CLP$10,800 for adults) is not included and should be paid separately.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the short duration and mainly sightseeing nature, it is suitable for most age groups, but should be evaluated based on individual mobility.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is there a chance to stay longer at the site?
This tour is designed as a 4-hour experience, so extra time at the site would need to be arranged separately.

To sum it up, this Valley of the Moon tour offers a beautiful, manageable introduction to one of the most iconic parts of the Atacama. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, scenic experience with the chance to witness a desert sunset that truly leaves an impression. Whether you’re capturing photos or simply soaking in the scenery, it’s a memorable way to connect with this alien landscape.

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