North Chile is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. After traveling in Patagonia I thought nothing can surprise me again, but then I arrived at San Pedro de Atacama. We traveled during February and the weather was perfect; hot during the day and cold during the night.
Our trip starts at Santiago de Chile, a very developed city with young people vibes and lively nightlife. We stayed at Altura Suites, which was clean and fully equipped located near everything you wish to see. Visit Santa Lucia Hill, Plaza de Armas, San Cristobal Hill, and La Monda Palace. For nightlife go to Providencia, Bellavista and Barrio Italia.
From Santiago take the bus to Valparaiso, a colorful coast city 2h from Santiago. We stayed at Pasta e Vino Hotel which was perfect. very good location and owns a delicious restraint nearby. You probably guess the name - Pasta e Vino Restaurant - Must try.
We took the city tour around Valparaiso. If you've got time, visit Vina del Mar the neighbor town. There are many beach town along the coast of Chile, the best one is a bit further up called Bahia Inglesa (flights available to Caldera)
Catch a flight from Santiago to Calama (2h), rent a car at the airport and drive for 1h to San Pedro de Atacama. Calama is a big town if you need to refill your groceries or other supplies make sure to do that before you hit the road. We arrived at night when we stepped out of the hotel in the morning, I first saw the snowy peaks of the Bolivian high mountains, it was incredible.
San Pedro de Atacama
We stayed at Hotel Casa Algarrobo, fantastic boutique hotel, beautiful design and completely new. The main street is full of restaurants, bars, and agencies.
Many tourist registers for shuttles to visit the parks on sunrise, I don't think it's necessary. Visit the park during the early hours of the day and rest at noon for the siesta.
Visit the Valle de Luna, get as early as you can because it's getting hot at noon. Use the ticket at the evening to watch the sunset at Mirador de Kari. The next day drives up to El Tatio hot springs in altitude of 4,320m high. Bring on your warm cloth and swimsuit because you're going to bath in the geyser water. Termas de Puritama is another spot for hot spring pools. If your miss the Dead Sea visit Miscati Lake and swim in Atacama salt laguna. Visit Laguna Chaxa natural preserve to watch flamingo.
If you have time, cross the border to Bolivia and visit Bolivia's Salt Desert - The Salar. Make sure to get necessary visa to enter Bolivia.
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