Excursion Overland experience: atacama desert & chilean lakes tour at Valparaiso

Discover the otherworldly beauty of Chile’s Atacama Desert, one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth. From lunar valleys and steaming geothermal fields to pristine night skies and flamingo-filled salt flats, this immersive overland journey combines natural wonders, unique wildlife, luxury accommodations, and unforgettable experiences before reconnecting with your voyage in the Chilean Lake District.

Overland Experience: Atacama Desert & Chilean Lakes

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Departs from: Valparaíso, Chile

Re-join Ship: Puerto Montt, Chile

Reserve: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Overland Experience includes flights, high-altitude touring, and visits to remote desert environments. Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited availability of accommodations and airline inventory.

A minimum number of participants is required to operate this program. Should the minimum participation not be met, the cruise line reserves the right to adjust pricing or cancel the departure.

Tour order may vary based on weather conditions, airline schedules, operational considerations, and local regulations.

The Atacama Desert is located at high elevation, and some excursions reach altitudes exceeding 14,000 feet (4,300 metres). Guests should consult their physician before booking if they have heart, respiratory, or other medical conditions.

VISA INFORMATION

Please consult your travel advisor regarding visa and entry requirements for Chile. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all required travel documentation prior to participation.

LOCAL CURRENCY

The local currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

DAY ONE | VALPARAÍSO – SANTIAGO – CALAMA – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA

Arrival in the World's Driest Desert

Disembark in Valparaíso and transfer directly to Santiago Airport for your flight north across Chile's dramatically changing landscapes.

Arrive in Calama, gateway to the Atacama Desert, and continue by private transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, a small oasis town surrounded by volcanoes, salt flats, and vast desert expanses.

After settling into your hotel, begin your introduction to the Atacama with a visit to the spectacular Valley of the Moon.

Named for its surreal terrain, the valley features sculpted rock formations, immense sand dunes, salt-covered ridges, and landscapes that resemble the surface of another planet. As the afternoon sunlight changes across the desert, the terrain transforms into a palette of gold, copper, pink, and violet tones.

Following sunset, experience one of the world's finest locations for astronomical observation. The Atacama's exceptionally dry atmosphere, remote setting, and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for observing the southern skies.

Weather and moon conditions permitting, discover constellations, planets, star clusters, and galaxies through telescopes while learning about the significance of astronomy in both modern science and ancient Andean cultures.

Overnight: Explora Atacama

DAY TWO | GEYSERS DEL TATIO – PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS

Fire and Water in the High Andes

Before sunrise, depart for one of the Atacama's most impressive natural phenomena.

Travel into the high Andean plateau to reach the Geysers del Tatio, among the highest geothermal fields in the world.

As morning light illuminates the landscape, witness dramatic columns of steam rising from the geothermal vents against a backdrop of volcanic peaks and rugged mountain scenery. The combination of intense geothermal activity and the stark beauty of the Altiplano creates one of the region's most unforgettable experiences.

During the return journey, admire sweeping views of the desert and opportunities to observe native wildlife such as vicuñas and Andean birds.

The afternoon offers a peaceful contrast at the Puritama Hot Springs.

Nestled within a desert canyon, these naturally heated pools are fed by mineral-rich waters that flow through the rocky landscape. Enjoy time to relax, unwind, and experience the restorative qualities of these thermal waters amid the silence of the desert.

Return to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Explora Atacama

DAY THREE | LAGUNA CHAXA – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – SANTIAGO

Flamingos and Salt Flats

This morning, explore one of the most scenic sectors of the Salar de Atacama.

Travel to Laguna Chaxa, a remarkable lagoon set within Chile's largest salt flat. The area serves as an important habitat for several species of flamingos and other birdlife that thrive in this seemingly inhospitable environment.

Walk along designated observation paths and enjoy spectacular views of the salt-covered landscape framed by distant volcanoes and endless skies.

The remarkable contrast between water, salt, wildlife, and desert creates one of the region's most iconic settings.

Return to San Pedro de Atacama and enjoy free time to relax at the hotel, explore the village independently, browse local artisan boutiques, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote desert community.

Later, transfer to Calama Airport for the afternoon flight to Santiago.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Santiago

DAY FOUR | SANTIAGO – PUERTO MONTT – PUERTO VARAS – RE-EMBARKATION

From Desert Landscapes to the Lake District

Following breakfast, transfer to Santiago Airport and board your flight south to Puerto Montt.

Chile's dramatic geographical diversity becomes immediately apparent as desert landscapes give way to lakes, forests, and snow-capped volcanoes.

Upon arrival, continue to the charming town of Puerto Varas, situated on the shores of Lake Llanquihue.

Known for its German heritage, flower-filled streets, and magnificent lakefront setting, Puerto Varas offers a striking contrast to the arid landscapes of the Atacama visited earlier in the journey.

Enjoy lunch and a panoramic exploration of the area, including views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes, weather permitting.

Continue to nearby Frutillar, another picturesque lakeside community known for its European influences and beautiful waterfront scenery.

Following the visit, transfer to Puerto Montt pier and rejoin the ship.

End of Overland Program

PLEASE NOTE

Activity Level

This program involves moderate activity and includes walking over uneven surfaces, sandy terrain, desert pathways, and natural landscapes.

Altitude Considerations

The excursion to Geysers del Tatio reaches approximately 14,100 feet (4,300 metres) above sea level. Some guests may experience symptoms associated with high altitude.

Guests with respiratory, cardiovascular, or mobility concerns should consult their physician prior to booking.

Accessibility

This program is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or guests with significant walking limitations.

Weather Conditions

Desert temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. Guests should be prepared for cool mornings and evenings and warmer daytime conditions.

Additional Information

Guests should bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes

 • Layered clothing suitable for changing temperatures

 • Warm jacket for early morning excursions

 • Hat and sunglasses

 • Sunscreen and lip protection

 • Swimwear for the hot springs

 • Small daypack

 • Personal medications

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed and vary according to seasonal conditions.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Flights between Santiago, Calama, and Puerto Montt as specified in the itinerary

• Three nights accommodation

• Visit to Valley of the Moon

• Astronomical observation experience

• Excursion to Geysers del Tatio

• Entry to Puritama Hot Springs

• Visit to Laguna Chaxa and Salar de Atacama

• Transportation and transfers throughout the program

• Meals as specified in the itinerary

• Services of professional local guides

• Applicable entrance fees, taxes, and service charges

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

• Personal expenses

• Spa services

• Additional beverages not specified

• Gratuities for guides and drivers

• Travel insurance

• Visa fees and documentation expenses

• Optional activities during free time

• Any items not specifically listed under "What Is Included"

Key Selling Points

• Explore the surreal landscapes of the Valley of the Moon

• Experience world-class stargazing beneath the pristine Atacama skies

• Visit the spectacular Geysers del Tatio at sunrise

• Relax in the natural thermal pools of Puritama Hot Springs

• Observe flamingos in their natural habitat at Laguna Chaxa

• Stay in the heart of the Atacama Desert at Explora Atacama

• Travel through one of the world's most unique desert environments

• Discover the contrasting beauty of Chile's Lake District

• Visit picturesque Puerto Varas and Frutillar

• Experience two of Chile's most iconic regions in one extraordinary journey