With its lunar landscapes, sense of ethereal wonder and no shortage of outdoor excursions to be enjoyed, the Atacama Desert is a truly unique destination which is unmatched anywhere else on earth. This, the driest desert on the planet, is home to ancient rock formations millions of years old, eternally clear night skies, boutique hotels and a surprising cultural heritage, all of which simply must be explored during any trip to Chile.

Set off for a sunrise tour of the evocative Moon Valley, with its otherworldly canyons and clifftop viewpoints. Head to the salt flats for jaw-dropping landscapes, float in a high-Andean lagoon and watch resident wildlife going about their day-to-day; pink Flamingos included. Unearth archaeological wonders in San Pedro de Atacama, and visit small, traditional villages that have flourished in the desert for many years. Get the adrenalin pumping on a mountain biking tour or volcano climb, and try your hand at horseback riding with the help of local experts. Experience the unique Atacama culture, sample Andean cuisine, and certainly don’t miss an opportunity for the best stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere.

However you choose to spend your time while in the Atacama Desert, it will be both momentous and memorable all at the same time. Largely, this is because in addition to the outdoor excursions, horse riding, hiking trails, lakes, 4x4 tours, atmospheric lodges, ancient caves and unforgettable sunset views; there is a sense of isolation, wonder and magic which fills the air while in these high-Andean plains, something which can only be experienced first-hand!