The Atacama Desert is an absolute wonder, with its remote location and breathtaking beauty making it an unparalleled destination in South America. It truly is one of the most captivating places on Earth.
Is It Worth Going To the Atacama Desert?
To answer the question- yes, it is!
Let me first just say — out of all the beautiful places I’ve been to in South America, this one really shines. 😎☀️
The Atacama desert is so dry, it’s recognized as the driest in the world.
It receives less than 1 mm of precipitation each year, and some areas haven’t seen a drop of rain in more than 500 years.
It’s amazing!
This huge desert covers 41,000 square miles and is home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders you’ll ever see. From unique rock formations to vast salt flats, geysers, valleys, and much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
As a discerning traveler, Make sure to include Atacama in your travel itinerary. Trust me, you won’t regret it.✈️
Get ready to be captivated by one of the world’s most enchanting and isolated destinations. Its breathtaking landscapes and distinct geography are sure to leave you inspired.
As part of our Luxury and Boutique hotel-Guides, I have written this new Blog Post to bring you the best accommodations in Atacama.
But before we dive in, I think it’s important to mention that our List of the best luxury hotels in Atacama ( as it is with all our Guided About the best luxury hotels in South America) is based on Maria’s and my personal preferences and not on a ranking (or an Affiliate program).
We or someone from our team have personally visited them and love them.
That’s why they are on this list.
So, now that I have mentioned this let’s dive into the best boutique hotels and Luxurious hotels in the Atacama desert.
What is the Best Town to Stay in the Atacama Desert
So, you’re ready to dive into the Atacama Desert adventure, but where should you set up your home base?
Look no further than San Pedro de Atacama. This charming little town is your ticket to the desert’s wonders. It’s got everything you need – Luxury, cozy accommodations, delicious local restaurants, and all the conveniences you’ll require.
From San Pedro, you’re just a stone’s throw away from the desert’s star attractions, and it’s where your guided explorations into this mesmerizing landscape begin.
There are multiple ways to access the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, with the fastest being a flight from Santiago to Calama airport ( 2-hour flight), followed by transportation to your hotel.
What Time of Year Is Atacama Best?
Now, let’s talk timing. When is the Atacama Desert at its absolute best?
Well, it’s good to know that this desert has its enchantment year-round.
But the ideal time for you might depend on your preferences. The Atacama boasts a consistent climate with minimal rainfall throughout the year.
However, if you’re all about that warm, comfy weather for your outdoor adventures, consider visiting between October and March. And if you’re looking for the ultimate stargazing experience, the cool winter months from June to August are your jam. The skies are crystal clear, and some of the world’s most renowned observatories await your celestial curiosity.
Planning your accommodations for this incredible adventure is key, and we’re delighted to share that you have plenty of luxury hotels to choose from. These hotels offer unforgettable lodging experiences in this remote and awe-inspiring location.
The good thing about the Atacama Desert is that you can find many stunning accommodations: All-inclusive accommodations at the luxury lodges.
What is the experience like at these all-inclusive Adventure Resorts on our list?
They are small, unique properties with an eye on architectural and interior design, using furniture and accessories handmade with local materials to be as authentic as possible.
They are located in unique spots with stunning, beautiful views. They offer a menu of excursions to explore the Atacama desert at your own pace, with friendly and professional guides.
You will taste the most delicious local food produced with local ingredients and be pampered with a top-notch, personalized, friendly service.
In these lodges, everything is included; you have to take yourself and enjoy!
So, these are our favorite Luxury all-inclusive resorts in Atacama:
1- Tierra Atacama Chile. Authentic Adventure & spa Experience
Tierra Atacama Hotel is the perfect match to explore the desert and enjoy an active, pampered vacation.
Tierra Atacama is your gateway to where luxury meets authenticity in the desert.
This boutique hotel not only offers stunning views of the Licancabur Volcano but also boasts a spa, the uma spa, with outdoor pool, and exquisitely designed guest rooms.
With an exquisite design, made of local materials, Tierra Atacama is a place where you can immerse yourself in the desert’s beauty while enjoying a range of excursions.
From visiting the Tatio Geysers to exploring the mystical Valley of the Moon.
Tierra Atacama offers a luxurious oasis in the heart of the desert with excellent services, friendly staff, professional local guides, Fine dining, and the best views.
Choose from a menu of half and full-day excursions to Explore the Atacama Desert your way. Including visits to the dunes, the salt flats, Moon Valley, Rainbow Valley, and the geysers.
Don’t miss the Atacama Stargazing, an excursion offered by Tierra Atacama that includes observing the spectacular starry night sky.
2-Nayara Alto Atacama tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of the desert .
Nayara Alto Atacama has fast become one of the most sought-after all-inclusive luxury hotels in San Pedro de Atacama.
Nayara Alto Atacama is slightly further away from town from other properties in the area, at three kilometers or a 10-minute drive from San Pedro de Atacama, and very close to the Pukara de Quitor, a pre-Inca fortress.
Settled in a tranquil valley, surrounded by terracotta-colored mountains, it has been built with materials sourced from the local area to blend in as much as possible with its natural surroundings and typical Atacameño building style.
If serenity in the desert is what you seek, look no further than Nayara Alto Atacama. This tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of the desert offers various accommodation options, including rooms with private terraces and outdoor showers.
At Puri Spa, you can indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation with treatments inspired by indigenous rituals.
Alto Atacama offers a menu of adventure activities to explore the desert. You can hike, mountain bike, or go star gazing – all with experienced guides.
Everything is designed along the ‘leave no trace’ eco-policy.
3-Explora Lodge Atacama. Unique excursions & Professional guides.
There is no denying that Explora Atacama is a hotel where nature and luxury blend harmoniously.
This remote lodge is more than just one of the best hotels to stay in Atacama; it’s an immersive experience. Nestled in the heart of the desert, Explora seamlessly merges with its surroundings, showcasing stunning architecture and sustainable design that captures the desert’s essence.
Here, you can set on guided adventures to iconic attractions, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and even stargaze from the outdoor swimming pool. It’s a haven for both nature enthusiasts and those seeking the epitome of luxury.
As with all the Explora properties, what I like most about this hotel is the wide range of excursions that it offers to its guests. Explora Atacama provides over 40 activities to explore the Atacama desert uniquely. You’ll be able to discover the deepest mysteries of the desert: its contrasts, geography, the sky, wildlife, and culture.
Excursions can be undertaken on foot, by bicycle, horseback and tailored according to your experience and fitness.
There is an observatory, so take advantage of the night star gazing.
Today, I’m still a big fan of Explora, but I would argue that the competition has certainly caught up with it, and, what was once the only choice, is now one of four that are up there.
4-Awasi Atacama Desert. Total Privacy stay and True Personalized service
Get ready to redefine luxury in the desert with Awasi Atacama. One of the best boutique hotels in South America, Awasi is all about elevating your desert experience.
Awasi experience in Atacama is for me the more luxurious lodge to visit the dessert.
Each of its ten adobe suites comes with a private terrace, complete with an outdoor shower – a unique way to connect with the desert’s breathtaking landscapes.
What sets Awasi apart is its exceptional service, including your own private guide and personalized, authentic experiences tailored to your interests.
When other hotels, like the Explora or Tierra, or Nayra, have gone for the extensive spa and pool areas with endless views out to the desert. Awasi experience is about privacy, personalized service, outstanding food, a great vibe, and fantastic guides.
It is possible to stay here for a week and only occasionally bump into the other guest!
It should be your choice when visiting Atacama if you want a private, quiet experience and a top-notch personalized service.
Located a little closer to San Pedro de Atacama, than the other luxury lodges, it is also a good choice if you want to get a good feel for this charming village.
5-Cumbres San Pedro de Atacama. The Largest luxury resort in Atacama.
Discover an oasis of elegance at Cumbres San Pedro de Atacama. This elegant resort seamlessly marries luxury with the indigenous culture of the region.
It has the largest Spa in all of San Pedro de Atacama. Here, you’ll find spacious bedrooms, spa facilities, and a gourmet restaurant that delights the senses.
Atacama’s largest resort features 60 large and comfortable rooms spread over the vast property. Each room having its own patio looking onto native flora and an indoor/outdoor shower. Excursions include all the classic Atacama experiences with a private guide.
It is located on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, approx. 2km from the town centre and a free shuttle into town is available.
Whether you’re unwinding in the outdoor lounges or taking a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, you’ll be surrounded by mesmerizing desert vistas. It’s an exquisite retreat that promises both comfort and cultural immersion.
PAMPER YOURSELF ACROSS ATACAMA DESERT
A journey to the Atacama Desert is a journey like no other on this planet. It’s a place of otherworldly allure that defies imagination. Imagine visiting the place where arid desert meets the towering Andes Mountains, creating a surreal, breathtaking backdrop that photographers go gaga over.
You’ll experience towering sand dunes, shimmering salt flats, and high-altitude lagoons that’ll soothe your eyes. But that’s not all. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this place is a paradise. Hiking, horseback riding, and exploring ancient archaeological sites are just the beginning.
There are the Tatio Geysers, natural hot springs, and bird-watching expeditions to enjoy. Plus, the Atacama’s unique ecosystem supports a rich variety of wildlife, from flamingos to vicuñas.
Now imagine you can combine an immersive adventure in the desert with total luxury. This is possible in Atacama.
These luxurious Hotels in Atacama don’t just fit the bill; they over-deliver.
Trust me; this desert is a trip you won’t soon forget!
With this suggested trip you will experience the excitement and remoteness of the Deserts in South America and indulge in a fantastic cultural, culinary, and wine experience. and Argentina salt flats.
Remember that every trip we plan is designed exclusively to meet your unique preferences and wishes, even if you have only 1 WEEK and want to focus on seeing the highlights of Atacama and Argentina Salt flats!
Let your imagination run wild with the endless possibilities of what’s to come!
We will always strive to include unique and authentic travel experiences that are “Un-Googleable”, allowing you to embark on a one-of-a-kind journey tailored to your interests and desires.
Our process is simple, and It takes only 2 to 3 weeks to go through our planning process & by the end, you could already be thinking about what to pack and all the fantastic memories you will create in South America 🥳
