The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is one of the most extraordinary destinations in South America. Known as the driest desert in the world, it offers surreal landscapes, high-altitude lagoons, steaming geysers, salt flats, and some of the clearest night skies on Earth.

If you're planning a trip to San Pedro de Atacama, here are the six best things to do - explained in detail to help you plan the perfect adventure.

1. Explore Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon)

One of the most iconic attractions in the Atacama Desert, Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) feels like stepping onto another planet. Located just 13 km from San Pedro de Atacama, this protected area is famous for its dramatic rock formations, vast sand dunes, salt caverns, and lunar-like terrain.

Why It’s Special:

• The landscape has been shaped by wind and salt erosion for millions of years.

• The scenery closely resembles Mars - NASA has even tested rover equipment in similar environments.

• Sunsets here are unforgettable, as the rocks shift from beige to deep red and purple.

What to Do:

• Hike through the dunes

• Climb viewpoints for panoramic desert views

• Visit during sunset for the most magical experience

Pro Tip: Bring water and sunscreen - there is almost no shade.

2. Witness Sunrise at El Tatio Geysers

At 4,320 meters (14,170 ft) above sea level, El Tatio Geysers is one of the highest geothermal fields in the world. Visiting before sunrise is essential - the freezing morning air makes the steam columns dramatically visible as they rise into the sky.

What Makes It Unique:

• Over 80 active geysers

• Boiling water and bubbling mud pools

• Stunning Andean mountain backdrop

Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F) in the early morning, so warm clothing is a must.

After sunrise, some tours include a visit to nearby thermal pools, where you can take a dip in naturally heated water.

3. Float in Laguna Cejar

If you’ve ever wanted to float effortlessly like in the Dead Sea, Laguna Cejar is your chance. This bright turquoise salt lagoon has an extremely high salt concentration, allowing visitors to float with zero effort.

Why Visit:

• Unique floating experience

• Crystal-clear water

• Surrounded by white salt crust and volcano views

Swimming is regulated to protect the environment, and you must shower afterward to remove salt residue.

Best Time to Go: Late afternoon, when the lighting is soft and temperatures are comfortable.

4. Spot Flamingos at Laguna Chaxa (Salar de Atacama)

Located within the Salar de Atacama, Laguna Chaxa is one of the best places in Chile to see wild flamingos. The combination of salt flats, shallow lagoons, and distant volcanoes creates a breathtaking natural scene.

Wildlife Highlights:

• Chilean flamingos

• Andean flamingos

• James’s flamingos

The reflection of mountains on the water during sunset makes this a photographer’s dream.

5. Go Stargazing in the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is considered one of the best stargazing destinations in the world. Thanks to its high altitude, dry climate, and minimal light pollution, the skies here are incredibly clear.

What You’ll See:

• The Milky Way with the naked eye

• Shooting stars

• Planets and constellations

• Deep-sky objects through telescopes

Many astronomy tours in San Pedro include expert guides who explain the southern hemisphere constellations.

Best Time: Moonless nights for maximum visibility.

6. Visit Piedras Rojas (Red Rocks & Altiplano Lagoons)

Located at over 3,800 meters above sea level, Piedras Rojas is one of the most stunning landscapes in northern Chile. The intense red volcanic rocks contrast beautifully with turquoise lagoons and snow-capped Andean peaks.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

• Striking color contrasts

• Peaceful, less crowded atmosphere

• Nearby Altiplano Lagoons (Miscanti & Miñiques)

Due to the altitude, walk slowly and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.

Final Thoughts

From otherworldly valleys and geothermal wonders to flamingo-filled salt flats and world-class stargazing, the Atacama Desert offers some of the most unique travel experiences in South America.

Whether you’re an adventure traveler, photographer, or nature lover, these six experiences showcase the very best things to do in the Atacama Desert.