Discovering Chile
Martha’s Journey from the Atacama Desert to Santiago
Sunset Travel’s Martha Galvez recently returned from an unforgettable adventure through Chile, where she experienced two of the country’s most distinct regions – the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the vibrant energy of Santiago and Chile’s coastal towns. From geysers at sunrise to world-class wineries and oceanfront dining, Martha’s journey offered a perfect balance of exploration, culture, and relaxation.
Photos Courtesy of Martha Galvez
Exploring the Atacama Desert
Martha began her journey in Calama, staying at Noi Casa Atacama for three nights while exploring the nearby town of San Pedro de Atacama – a cultural hub and gateway to some of Chile’s most stunning natural wonders.
Her excursions included visits to Rainbow Valley, Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs, Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna), and the Tatio Geysers, one of the highest geothermal fields in the world at over 14,000 feet.
Each destination revealed Chile’s raw beauty – from Rainbow Valley’s vividly colored hills formed by mineral deposits to the ancient carvings at Yerbas Buenas that tell the stories of early Atacameño culture.
One unforgettable experience came during a Moon Valley sunset tour, when Martha’s group’s bus became temporarily stuck in the sand. Rather than letting it dampen the mood, the travelers enjoyed the stillness of the desert and watched the sun dip below the horizon, followed by a sky blanketed with stars.
Martha also participated in a stargazing excursion, taking advantage of the Atacama’s famously clear skies – considered among the best in the world for astronomy.
From Desert to City: Santiago and the Chilean Coast
After exploring the desert’s wonders, Martha and her group flew south to Santiago, where she stayed at Hotel Le Rêve – a charming boutique property ideally located near restaurants and shops.
Her time in Santiago combined urban exploration with coastal escapes. She visited the Kingston Family Vineyards and the Santa Rita Winery, learning about Chile’s long-standing winemaking traditions and sampling some of the region’s best vintages.
Martha also enjoyed a day trip to Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, two iconic seaside towns along Chile’s central coast. Viña del Mar, known for its gardens and beaches, offered a refreshing change of scenery, while Valparaíso’s colorful hillside houses and historic funiculars provided an authentic glimpse of Chile’s bohemian spirit.
Weather & Transportation
Chile’s diverse geography means weather can vary dramatically.
During Martha’s visit, the Atacama region saw daytime temperatures ranging from the low 40s to high 60s, while early mornings near the Tatio Geysers dipped to -5°. In contrast, Santiago’s weather was mild and comfortable, with daytime highs around 70°F and cooler evenings.
The group enjoyed private transportation throughout their trip, traveling between attractions and cities with a small group of about twelve people. They also took a domestic flight between Calama and Santiago, ensuring smooth and efficient travel.
Meals and Culinary Highlights
Food and wine are central to the Chilean experience.
Martha enjoyed buffet breakfasts at her hotels and lunches provided during daily excursions, featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients.
Evenings were spent dining in San Pedro and Santiago, where she sampled local seafood, Chilean wines, and traditional favorites like empanadas, which she described as “the best in Atacama.”
One highlight was visiting a local fish market, where she and her group enjoyed a freshly prepared seafood meal while watching local vendors at work.
Activities and Experiences
Martha’s itinerary was filled with incredible sights and cultural encounters:
- Rainbow Valley: Known for its red, green, and white mineral-streaked cliffs.
- Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs: Ancient rock carvings that reveal the lives and beliefs of Chile’s early inhabitants.
- Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna): A surreal landscape with salt caves, stone formations, and panoramic viewpoints.
- Tatio Geysers: Steam rising from the earth at sunrise created a breathtaking scene.
- Vineyard Tours: Visits to Kingston Family Vineyards and Santa Rita offered insight into Chile’s thriving wine industry.
- Coastal Exploration: Viña del Mar and Valparaíso – a perfect blend of beaches, culture, and color.
Insider Tips
- Dress in Layers: Temperatures can shift dramatically from day to night.
- Bring Cash in Chilean Pesos: Smaller towns and local markets may not accept cards.
- Always Travel with a Guide: Especially for desert excursions.
- Stay Hydrated: The Atacama’s dry climate can dehydrate quickly.
- Don’t Expect Spicy Food: Chilean cuisine tends to be mild.
- Avoid Collecting Plants or Rocks: It’s prohibited to remove natural elements from protected areas.
Must See
- The Atacama Desert – one of the driest places on Earth.
- Moon Valley and Tatio Geysers for surreal landscapes.
- Vineyards near Santiago.
- Viña del Mar and Valparaíso for a glimpse of Chile’s coast.
- Shopping in Santiago – especially for high-quality silver jewelry.
Must Eat
- Seafood – fresh and flavorful, especially near the coast.
- Empanadas – a local favorite in Atacama.
- Chilean wine – world-class reds and crisp whites.
Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Bring Chilean Pesos for local purchases.
- Allow at least a 2.5-hour connection between Santiago and Calama flights.
- Dress in layers for variable weather.
- Hire certified guides for excursions.
- Drink plenty of water.
Don’t:
- Wander off alone in remote desert areas.
- Take natural souvenirs like plants or minerals.
- Expect spicy food – Chilean cuisine is flavorful but mild.
As a world traveler fluent in Spanish and English, Martha Galvez brings decades of firsthand expertise to her clients’ travel experiences. Since joining Sunset Travel and Cruise in 1999, she has become one of the agency’s top travel advisors, specializing in destination weddings, honeymoons, and family vacations.
If you’re ready to plan your own unforgettable getaway, Contact Martha today and let her help you design the trip of a lifetime.
Let us Curate Your Next South American Vacation!
If you’re seeking an escape where charm meets adventure, Sunset Travel and Cruise is your perfect partner in crafting unforgettable memories.
Contact us to help you craft an amazing resort vacation to South America and beyond!