General Travel Questions

Where is San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama is located in northern Chile, in the Antofagasta Region, about 100 km from Calama Airport. It is the gateway to the driest desert in the world and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.

How many days do I need to visit San Pedro de Atacama?

Ideally, you should spend between 3 and 5 days to see the main highlights. If you have less time, there are packages such as Promotion: 3 Tours / 2 days o Promotion: 3 Tours / 2 days that make the most of your stay.

Budget and Payment Methods

What payment methods are accepted in San Pedro de Atacama?

Most restaurants and accommodations accept credit/debit cards, but many excursions and park entrance fees are cash only. It’s best to carry Chilean pesos.

Is it expensive to visit San Pedro de Atacama?

Prices vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation or tour. There are options for every budget, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

Are there ATMs or currency exchange offices?

Yes, but ATMs are not always available or may run out of cash. It’s advisable to carry cash (Chilean pesos) for entrance fees and small purchases.

Climate and Packing Tips

What’s the weather like in San Pedro de Atacama?

It’s a desert climate: warm days (20–30 °C) and cold nights, especially in winter (0 °C or lower). The sun is strong year-round. Dressing in layers is recommended.

What’s the best time of year to visit?

You can visit year-round. Spring and autumn (September–November / March–May) offer pleasant temperatures. In summer (January–February), there may be occasional highland rains.

Does it rain in San Pedro de Atacama?

Rarely. However, between January and February there may be sporadic showers (the “Altiplanic winter”), which can affect access to some areas.

What clothes should I bring?


✅ Light clothing for daytime
✅ Warm jacket for the evening
✅ Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
✅ Swimsuit for lagoons
✅ Comfortable walking shoes

Transport and Getting There

How do I get to San Pedro from Santiago?

Fly to Calama (CJC), then take a 1.5-hour transfer to San Pedro. There are private and shared transfer options. You can easily book through local agencies or your accommodation.

Where do tours depart from?

Most tours depart from central meeting points or from your accommodation, depending on the operator. For example, the Valle de la Luna tour usually starts at 4:00 p.m. from the town center.

Do I need to book tours in advance?

Sí, especialmente en temporada alta (vacaciones, feriados y verano). Reservar con anticipación asegura cupos y permite planificar mejor el itinerario.

Are there half-day tours?

Yes. Some, like Valle de la Luna, the lagoons, or Rainbow Valley, can be done in half a day—perfect if you have limited time.

What if a tour is canceled due to bad weather?

Most agencies offer date changes or refunds if a tour is canceled due to natural causes. Always check the cancellation policies when booking.

Entrance Fees

Are park entrance fees included in tours?

Not always. Many tours don’t include entrance fees, which must be paid in cash on-site. For example:
Valle de la Luna: CLP $11.000 per person
Laguna Cejar: CLP $15.000 per person
Tebinquiche: CLP $6.000 per person

Accommodation

Where should I stay in San Pedro?

The town offers options for all tastes: budget hostels, boutique hotels, and luxury lodges. Staying near the center is ideal for easier tour departures.

Food and Services

Where to eat in San Pedro?

There are plenty of options in the town center—from traditional Chilean and Andean cuisine to gourmet restaurants and cafés. Most are concentrated around Caracoles Street and nearby.

Practical Tips

Can I visit the lagoons if I can’t swim?

Yes. In places like Laguna Cejar, you float easily due to the high salt content, so swimming skills aren’t necessary. Go with a guide, follow the rules, and wear appropriate clothing.

What should I do if I experience altitude sickness?

✅ Hidrátate bien.
✅ Avoid alcohol and heavy meals on your first day.
✅ Acclimatize before visiting high-altitude sites like Tatio or the Altiplanic Lagoons.
✅ Some agencies provide oxygen if needed.

Connectivity
Is there internet in San Pedro de Atacama?

Yes, though the signal may be weak in certain areas or during excursions. Many hotels and cafés offer Wi-Fi.ofrecen wifi.

Is there mobile coverage in San Pedro and surrounding areas?

In town, yes. On remote routes and attractions, coverage is often nonexistent. Plan accordingly.

Health and Safety

Is it safe to travel to San Pedro?
San Pedro has a local health center. For serious cases, patients are transferred to Calama. Bring personal medication, as local availability is limited.

Sustainability and Responsibility

How can I travel responsibly in the desert?
✅ Don’t leave trash
✅ Use biodegradable sunscreen
✅ Don’t touch geological formations or wildlife
✅ Respect trails and signage