Salt Flats Route Tour

The Atacama Salt Flats Route tour is a scenic high-altitude experience that traverses one of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in northern Chile. From San Pedro, this tour takes travelers past volcanoes, salt flats, lagoons, and rock formations that seem like they're from another planet. At over 4,000 meters above sea level, this route reveals the wildest and most majestic dimensions of the Andean plateau. Discover the Salt Flats Route and be amazed by its mineral and ancient power.

💰 General Information

Price per person:	$500,000 for 2 people, + Additional person $25,000
Schedules:	Full Day
Includes:	Transportation from accommodation, certified guide, breakfast and lunch.
Booking:	It is done 2 or 3 days in advance.

🗺️ Tour Itinerary

1. Departure from San Pedro de Atacama
The tour begins in the morning from your accommodation in San Pedro. As the vehicle takes Route 27-CH, you begin a climb to altitudes above 4,000 meters. This San Pedro Salt Flats Route excursion marks the beginning of a journey through some of the region's most breathtaking landscapes.

2. Licancabur and Juriques Viewpoint
First stop: a panoramic viewpoint overlooking two giants of the Altiplano: the Licancabur and Juriques volcanoes. The silence, the clear sky, and the contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the reddish earth set the tone for the day.

3. Quepiaco Wetland
A high-altitude wetland where life flourishes in the middle of the desert. Here you can spot flamingos, Andean ducks, vizcachas, and vicuñas. An unexpected oasis amidst the dust and rock. Ideal for lovers of birdwatching and the Atacama highland landscapes.

4. Pecan Caldera
A geologically significant area, with remnants of ancient volcanic activity. In this desolate landscape stands "El Indio," a rock formation over 30 meters high that resembles an ancient sculpture emerging from the Andean soil.

5. Aguas Calientes Salt Flats and Quisquiro Salt Flats
The Chilean Salt Flats Scenic Route culminates with a visit to these salt flats of hypnotic colors: pink, white, emerald. Each with its own ecosystem, surrounded by bare mountains that contrast with the clear sky of the high plateau.

📝 Considerations

The route can be hiked year-round, but the winter and spring months (June through November) offer clearer skies and clearer views. Summer rains can affect the trails.
7 to 8 hours, including photo stops, short hikes, and a breakfast break. This is a full-day excursion.
Most of the route is covered at altitudes above 4,000 meters. Wearing a coat, moving slowly, and staying hydrated are key to enjoying it without discomfort.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, layered clothing, a hat, water, a camera, and, if you have one, binoculars. There are no services along the route; everything must be brought from San Pedro.
The responsible agencies have satellite communication and a first aid kit. Ask for these details when booking your trip along the Salt Flats Route.

📘 Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What exactly is the Salt Flats Route?

This is a highland circuit that covers salt flats, volcanoes, and unique geological formations east of San Pedro de Atacama. It includes high-altitude landscapes, wildlife, and volcanic scenery.

📏 What is the maximum altitude of the route?

Altitudes reach over 4,300 meters. Therefore, it is essential to be acclimatized and follow the guide's instructions.

🧭 Which salt flats are visited on this tour?

Mainly the Aguas Calientes Salt Flat and the Quisquiro Salt Flat, each with distinct geological characteristics and colors.

🦙 What fauna can be observed?

Vicuñas, flamingos, Andean ducks, and vizcachas. The Quepiaco wetlands are one of the key spots for viewing wildlife in their natural state.

🎒 Do you need experience to take this tour?

No. It's a vehicle tour with brief stops. No special physical condition is required, but altitude tolerance is.

🍴 Does the tour include food?

Most operators include breakfast or a snack. Please check this before booking.

🕒 How long does the tour last?

Between 7 and 8 hours. This is a full-day trip that departs in the morning and returns in the afternoon.

👶 Is it advisable to do this excursion with children?

Yes, as long as they don't have respiratory or altitude problems. It's recommended to consult your pediatrician beforehand.

🚻 Are there restrooms or toilets along the route?

No. It's a natural environment with no facilities. Be prepared for an isolated experience.

🌄 Is this route worth choosing over other more popular ones?

Yes. The Atacama Salt Flats Route is less traveled, allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more authentic, and visually striking environment. It's ideal for those looking for something different from the traditional route.

⚠️ Important Information

AtacamaTours offers advice and reservation management with the best tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama so that you can enjoy your vacations to the fullest.

Pickup times are limited to a 40-minute window. If the time limit is reached and we haven't made the pickup, please call one of the following numbers: 977834208 – 982839659 – 978380416.

At Atacama Tours, your safety is our priority. We will never ask you to transfer money to personal or third-party accounts. All payments are made exclusively through Business Account either WebPay.

Please note that a document detailing the cancellation policies is available upon request. Please don't hesitate to ask; we'll be happy to provide it.

If you wish to make changes or cancellations to the itinerary at no additional cost, you must inform us at least 48 hours before from the tour departure time. After this time, changes, cancellations, and refunds will not be accepted.

Once the tickets are purchased, they they have no refund due to regulations established by the parks.

Please note that all tours are subject to change or cancellation due to adverse weather conditions. In these cases, the activity will be rescheduled or the full amount of the missed tour will be refunded.