From the moment my heels touched down at El Loa Airport in Calama, I knew I was in for an adventure unlike any other. As a beauty queen, I’m used to the glitz and glamour of the stage, but there’s something about the raw, untamed beauty of the Atacama Desert that spoke to my soul.
Over the next four days, I swapped my crown for hiking boots, traded my evening gowns for a windbreaker, and embarked on a journey through one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Here’s how my adventure in Atacama, during my vacation in Chile, unfolded.
Day 1: Calama to San Pedro de Atacama
After a smooth transfer from the airport, I arrived in the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama. The vibe here was immediately intoxicating—laid-back, yet buzzing with an undercurrent of adventure.
I spent the rest of the day wandering the dusty streets, popping into quirky little shops, and soaking up the desert vibes. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold and orange, I knew I was falling for this place. Overnight in San Pedro Atacama.
Day 2: Moon Valley – Nature’s Masterpiece
If the first day was a gentle introduction, day two was a full-blown love affair with nature. The afternoon began with a visit to Moon Valley, a place that feels more like Mars than Earth.
The bizarre salt and clay formations in the “Three Marias” area were otherworldly, and I found myself awestruck by the sheer power of nature. Walking through Valle de la Muerte, I felt small in the best way possible, humbled by the vastness of this ancient landscape.
The highlight? Watching the sunset over Valle de la Luna, with the Licancabur Volcano standing tall in the distance. As the sky transitioned through shades of red, pink, and blue, I couldn’t help but think—no stage, no spotlight, no crown could ever compare to this. Overnight in San Pedro Atacama.
Day 3: Tatio Geysers and Floating in Cejar Lagoon
The desert doesn’t do mornings halfway. Day three began with an early start to the Tatio Geysers Geothermal Field, where I watched the earth breathe in plumes of steam. Having breakfast in the crisp morning air, surrounded by nature’s power, was a moment of pure serenity. Later, a dip in the warm thermal baths melted away any lingering stress.
In the afternoon, it was off to the Cejar Lagoon, the Atacama’s version of the Dead Sea. Floating effortlessly in the salty water, I couldn’t help but laugh—who knew the desert could be this much fun? The day ended with a tranquil sunset at Tebinquiche Lagoon, the perfect close to a day full of contrasts. Overnight in San Pedro Atacama.
Day 4: Chaxa Lagoon and Desert Villages
For my final day, I visited Chaxa Lagoon, set against the stunning backdrop of the Miscanti Volcano. The flamingos wading in the shallow waters were the epitome of grace, reminding me that beauty often lies in simplicity.
The afternoon was spent exploring the villages of Socaire and Toconao, where time seemed to have slowed down. Meeting the locals, hearing their stories, and experiencing their way of life added a rich layer of culture to my desert adventure.
Returning to San Pedro de Atacama, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a journey that touched my heart, mind, and spirit.
Final Word
As I packed my bags and prepared to leave San Pedro de Atacama, I realized that this desert had left an indelible mark on me. It reminded me that beauty isn’t just about what’s on the surface—it’s about the experiences that shape us, the challenges we overcome, and the memories we carry with us.
My Atacama adventure was filled with awe, wonder, and a newfound appreciation for the world’s natural wonders. Until next time, Atacama—thank you for crowning me in your desert splendor.
Check out Bamba Travel’s free itinerary to Atacama, Chile below:
Guest post written by Mary Jean Jones
From the serene beaches of Bali to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Mary Jean’s adventures fuel her love for diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
