Santiago to La Paz - Atacama & the Uyuni Salt Flats
• Santiago • Atacama Desert • Laguna Colorada • Laguna Verde • Uyuni Salt Pans • La Paz
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
AUD
$6,545
|
Days
7
|
Nights
6
|
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
AUD
$6,545
|
Days
7
|
Nights
6
|
Introduction
Discover some of the world’s most out-of-this-world landscapes in Northern Chile and Bolivia.
Explore the wonders of the Atacama Desert – moonscapes, geysers, canyons and turquoise lakes. See Laguna Colorada or the red lagoon, which draws in thousands of flamingos. Finish with the Uyuni Salt Flats, one of the world’s highest deserts, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes that reaches 5000 metres. This journey is a photographers dream!
This remarkable tour ends in La Paz from where you can combine with our Birthplace of the Incas tour.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Santiago
Arrive in Santiago where you will be met by your English-speaking assistant and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2 : Santiago > San Pedro de Atacama
This morning commences a cultural voyage starting at the Palacio de la Moneda Cultural Centre, showcasing both national and international artists. Continue to the enchanting convent museum of San Francisco in the heart of Santiago, a haven of Andean Colonial art amidst lush corridors and gardens.
Our journey unfolds at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, unveiling an incredible array of works highlighting pre-Columbian cultural diversity and Chile’s native peoples, including a valuable Andean textile collection dating back over 3,000 years. This immersive tour promises a rich blend of culture, learning, and exploration, revealing the historical tapestry of Chile. After the conclusion of your tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Calama. Upon arrival, you will be met by your English-speaking assistant and transferred to your San Pedro de Atacama hotel.
Day 3 : San Pedro de Atacama
This morning you will discover Toconao, a captivating oasis south of San Pedro de Atacama, nestled at 2470 meters above sea level, steeped in Atacameno culture. This agropastoral haven, enriched by water with minimal minerals, sustains diverse crops—from Easter pears and plums to quinces, grapes, and abundant vegetables. Explore the 1744-built Church of San Lucas de Toconao, a national monument featuring a distinctive freestanding bell tower.
Continue to the enchanting Chaxa Lagoon, home to three flamingo species and other birds like Puna Plover and Baird’s sandpiper. Immerse yourself in the Salar de Atacama’s geological wonders, marvelling at salt crusts formed through crystallization.
This afternoon travel 13 km west from San Pedro de Atacama to discover the mesmerizing Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley). Part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve, this nature sanctuary captivates with unique rock formations sculpted by wind, such as the Tres Maria and the amphitheatre. Nestled in the Cordillera de la Sal, at the Salar de Atacama’s edge, this geological marvel stands at 2550 meters above sea level. Conclude the tour at the “Mirador de Kari,” revelling in the changing hues of a breathtaking sunset. The Moon Valley, a haven of unrivalled beauty, awaits avid travellers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Day 4 : San Pedro de Atacama
Embark on an early morning adventure from your hotel, covering approximately 69 km to reach the El Tatio geothermal field, meaning “the grandfather who cries” in the “Kunza” language. Arrive before dawn to witness the captivating interplay between sunlight and vapours emerging from the earth. Situated over 4300 meters above sea level in the Andean mountain range, El Tatio is the largest geothermal field in South America and the third largest globally. Marvel at steam vents reaching up to 50 metres, fuelled by magma heated through mountain waters flowing in the earth’s crust. After experiencing the sunrise, indulge in a local breakfast and explore the area at your leisure.
Day 5 : San Pedro de Atacama > Villa Mar
You will be met by your English-speaking assistant and transferred to Hiton Cajon, the border with Bolivia. Meet your Bolivia English-speaking guide and head to the mesmerizing Laguna Verde, backed by the towering Licancabur Volcano reaching 5960 meters.
Continue to Laguna Colorada, home to the unique “James’ Flamingos,” set against eternal snow-capped peaks, and witness the lagoon’s vibrant red hues caused by algae and plankton. En route, encounter the volcanic wonders of Valle de Dalí, the Chalviri thermal waters, and the Geysers Sol de Manana (Morning Sun). Your adventure concludes in the charming village of Villamar.
Day 6 : Villa Mar > Salar de Uyuni
Enjoy a scenic journey through windswept ranges with remarkable erosion, passing Alota, Culpina K villages, and the historic San Cristobal silver mine. Traverse the highlands, visit the captivating old train cemetery, and reach the Uyuni town.
Continue to Colchani, a salt-producing village on the Uyuni salt flats’ shores. Explore the vast salt flat, heading to Incahuasi Island (Fish Island) to marvel at the iconic Giant Cacti. Witness the mesmerizing sunset on the salt flat’s edge, creating a breathtaking panorama. Indulge in a unique lunch experience in the heart of the expansive salt flat, making this journey an unforgettable exploration of natural wonders.
Day 7 : Salar de Uyuni > La Paz
You will be met and transferred to the airport for your flight to Laz Paz where your arrangements end.
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Pricing
Pricing (per person), AUD
TYPE |
TWIN from |
SINGLE from |
EXTRA from |
---|---|---|---|
2024 | |||
1 Jan – 31 Dec |
AU$6,545 |
AU$8,020 |
Departs
Daily except Sunday's, year-round |
Included
- Tailor-made journey
- 6-nights’ accommodation
- 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Meet & Greet at Chilean airports
- Private transfers as per itinerary
- Private sightseeing as per itinerary
- English-speaking local guides
- Entrance fees as per the itinerary
- Economy class flights Santiago > Calama and Uyuni > La Paz
Not Included
Gratuities
Important Notes
- Surcharges apply for Easter/Holy Week and the Christmas & New Year’s period
- The single price is based on travelling with others in your party
- Please enquire about pricing for a single travelling alone
- The price of the included flights is subject to change
- Museums in Santiago are closed on Monday’s
- Some travel in Boliva will be off-road
- Accommodations in Villa Mar, Bolivia are best available
- This itinerary is available in reverse
- Please also enquire to extend your stay in Santiago and/or add nights in La Paz
Please refer to World Journeys terms & conditions
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