San Pedro de Atacama: Rainbow Valley Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the fascinating Rainbow Valley, a unique landscape of the Atacama Desert where colors and geological shapes create a striking setting. The tour allows you to appreciate imposing multicolored hills and rock formations sculpted by millions of years of geological processes.
Accompanied by a specialized guide, you will explore trails that reveal the chromatic richness of the valley, with shades ranging from deep reds to yellows and ochres, offering an unrivalled visual spectacle. During the visit, you will learn about aspects of the geological and cultural history of the area, including ancient petroglyphs that reflect the passage of ancient civilizations through this territory.
The tour ends with a moment of pause to enjoy the silence and breadth of the landscape, inviting contemplation and connection with the natural tranquility of the Rainbow Valley, before returning.
Available options
San Pedro de Atacama: Rainbow Valley Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Pick up from the accommodation for comfortable transportation.
Gourmet picnic
Guided tour of the Rainbow Valley
Experienced bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After the transfer from San Pedro de Atacama, we will start the day with a delicious breakfast to recharge our energy. Then we will begin the exploration of the Rainbow Valley with its colors and geological formations. Clay and various minerals dye the hills and rock formations with vibrant tones, creating a surreal landscape that captivates with every corner revealing a new nuance of nature.
2
In Yerbas Buenas, you will admire ancient petroglyphs that tell stories of past civilizations, offering a fascinating connection with the past. At the end of the tour of the petroglyphs, you will return to San Pedro de Atacama.
What's not included
The fee for the public is CLP 10,000 per person, payable only in cash Chilean pesos at the entrance. Children from 12 to 17 years old pay CLP 4,000, older adults CLP 6,000.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
10 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The entrance fee must be paid in cash at the office before leaving for the destination.
What to bring: Comfortable trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, hat and 1 liter of still water per person.
Meeting point
Address of our physical office
Important notes
Visitors must pay admission directly at the park entrance. The fee for the public is CLP 10,000 per person, payable in cash only. Children from 12 to 17 years old have a reduced rate of CLP 4,000, while older adults pay CLP 6,000.
About San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is a charming town in northern Chile, known as the gateway to the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. This unique destination offers stunning landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Valle de la Luna
Valle de la Luna is a surreal lunar-like landscape with sand dunes, rock formations, and salt formations. It's a must-visit for its stunning views and unique geological features.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Laguna Cejar
Laguna Cejar is a unique saltwater lagoon where you can float effortlessly due to its high salt content. It's a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Geysers del Tatio
Geysers del Tatio is a geothermal field with boiling hot springs and geysers. It's one of the highest geyser fields in the world and offers a unique experience.
Nature
Full-day tour
Moderate (approximately $50-$70 for a guided tour)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cazuela
A traditional Chilean stew made with meat, potatoes, corn, and pumpkin. It's a hearty and comforting dish perfect for the cool evenings in the desert.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian versions are available
Empanadas de Pino
A popular Chilean snack, these empanadas are filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and a hard-boiled egg.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian and vegan options are available
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Dune buggy rides
Hiking
Mountain biking
Hot springs
Yoga retreats
Meditation
Visit to the Atacama Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season)
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring the desert, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures during the day. Nights can be quite cold.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, Quechua (indigenous language)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (UTC-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Pedro de Atacama is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- El Loa Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama
By bus
San Pedro de Atacama Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses connect San Pedro de Atacama to nearby attractions like the Valle de la Luna and Laguna Cejar. They are affordable but not very frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Cascadas
Day trips
Puritama Hot Springs
20 km (12 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Half-day to full-day
Puritama Hot Springs offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a stunning desert setting. The natural hot springs are surrounded by beautiful rock formations and lush vegetation.
Rainbow Valley (Valle del Arcoiris)
100 km (62 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Full-day
Rainbow Valley is known for its colorful rock formations and stunning landscapes. It's a popular spot for hiking, photography, and exploring the unique geological features of the Atacama Desert.
Festivals
Atacama Desert Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Valle de la Luna at sunset for the best views and photography opportunities
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong desert sun
- Dress in layers to accommodate the significant temperature variations between day and night
- Respect the environment and follow the principles of responsible tourism
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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