Rainbow Valley Tour

Rainbow Valley, located in the Domeyko mountain range, is one of the most fascinating geological treasures of the Atacama Desert. Just a few kilometers from San Pedro, this area dazzles with mountains displaying shades of green, red, yellow, and white, the result of minerals that emerge from the surface. A tour of Rainbow Valley immerses you in a palette of natural colors and discovers ancient remains among ancient formations and unusual landscapes.

💰 General Information

Price per person:	$320,000 for 2 people, + Additional person $20,000
Schedules:	AM
Includes:	Transportation from accommodation, certified guide and breakfast.
Booking:	It is done 2 or 3 days in advance.

🗺️ Tour Itinerary

1. Departure from San Pedro de Atacama
The tour begins with departure from your accommodation in San Pedro, crossing the dry desert valleys into the Domeyko Mountain Range. The journey allows you to appreciate the gradual change in the landscape: from absolute aridity to the first streaks of color.

2. Archaeological site of Yerbas Buenas
First stop at a key location for understanding the human history of the region. Yerbas Buenas preserves an extensive collection of petroglyphs carved by pre-Columbian peoples, featuring human figures, camelids, and ritual symbols. It's an opportunity to connect the present with the past of northern Chile.

3. Entrance to Rainbow Valley
After a short hike, you reach the heart of Rainbow Valley, where the hills acquire unusual colors thanks to the oxidation of various minerals: iron oxides, salts, and copper. The greens, ochres, lilacs, and whites blend in layers as if hand-painted.

4. Walk and contemplation
Free time to explore the trails among the multicolored hills. This is a leisurely stroll, with opportunities to take photos, observe geological details, and simply soak up the natural beauty of the area.

5. Return to San Pedro
The return journey follows the same route, usually around midday. Additional photo stops are often made if conditions permit.

📝 Considerations

The tour can be done year-round, but the best colors are appreciated in clear light, so mornings are ideal. Sunny days enhance the contrasts of the landscape.
Approximately 4 to 5 hours, including travel, walking, and stops.
It's recommended to book a tour with an agency familiar with the area. Many roads are gravel, and access isn't always marked.
Prices vary depending on the season, but this is one of the most affordable tours from San Pedro. Check to see if it includes admission to the archaeological site.
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the morning. The weather can change quickly.
Water, sunscreen, a camera, and a snack. There are no services in the Valley, so everything must be brought from San Pedro.

📘 Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Where is Rainbow Valley?

It is located in the Domeyko Mountain Range, about 90 km from San Pedro de Atacama, in northern Chile. It is an area of unique geological formations due to their colors.

🌈 What causes the colors of Rainbow Valley?

The combination of minerals such as copper, iron oxides, and salts produces a natural color palette ranging from green to red, including ochre, lilac, and white.

🗿 Does the tour include a visit to petroglyphs?

Yes, most tours stop at Yerbas Buenas, an archaeological site with more than 100 petroglyphs carved by ancient cultures.

🚶‍♂️ Is it a physically demanding tour?

No. It's a low-difficulty hike, ideal for all ages. The route is short and includes breaks to appreciate the scenery.

🎟️ Do I need a ticket to enter Rainbow Valley?

Some operators include admission in the total price. Others charge separate admission to Yerbas Buenas. Check before booking.

🧳 What should I bring to Rainbow Valley?

Water, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a camera, sunglasses, and a layer of clothing in the morning. There are no services or shops on-site.

🚻 Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Only at the starting point in Yerbas Buenas, basic. There are no facilities during the valley tour.

🕘 What is the best time to take this tour?

In the morning. Direct sunlight enhances the colors of the landscape, especially between 9:00 and 11:30 a.m.

🧭 Is it advisable to go on your own?

Only if you know the route well. Otherwise, it's preferable to travel with an agency for safety, guidance, and historical context.

📷 Is it worth it if I've already visited other valleys?

Yes. Rainbow Valley offers a different, more intimate experience focused on geology and ancient history, away from the crowds.

⚠️ 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.