Referred to by many scientists as one of the driest places on Earth, the Atacama Desert occupies the northern third of Chile, pushing just into the southern boundary with Peru.
This is one of the last towns in Chile before you get to the Bolivian border.
For nature-loving travelers to South America, the entire San Pedro de Atacama area is a definite highlight to add to your bucket list. Where the Amazon Rainforest is a celebration of biodiversity and lushness, the Atacama Desert is the stark opposite.
Nevertheless, it has a lengthy history, intriguing flora and fauna, colorful lagoons and rock formations, and renowned night skies.
The Atacama region’s staggering aridity, fluctuating temperatures, and unique biology make it a fascinating ecosystem worthy of exploration. Due to its elevation, cloudlessness, and sparse population, it’s also a premiere place for astronomical observation.
Travellers who are bound to explore this landscape will one way or another will stop on the town plaza and it’s nearly aged-adobe streets and accomodations.
See my iphone snapshots for a good overview of the town plaza and nearby aged adobe homes and people.
Pretty mud brick buildings line the unpaved, unmarked streets and the sun peaks through the clouds to heat up the area a little. As you meander aimlessly, it is only a matter of time before you arrive at the centre of the small outpost small touristy town.
Ancient cultures and travelers from all over the world intermingle in this age-old town with dirt roads and adobe homes. In this starting point for an unforgettable trip you will discover the most stunning views on the planet amidst its endless beauty.
Visit the old plaza and learn about the customs of its residents. Give in to the slow pace of life here where it seems as if no one were in any hurry. Make sure to visit the old church. Take in all of the local art, and take a stroll through the workshops of the Craft Village to find out how they keep their traditions alive.
A village of dirt streets and adobe housing that have stolen the heart of thousands tourists with the charms of the Atacama and Spanish culture evidenced in each one of its buildings.
San Pedro de Atacama is a bit of tourist town. It’s a popular base for exploring the highlights of the Atacama Desert.
The streets of San Pedro de Atacama are lined with adobe buildings shops like this.
Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!”
– Hunter S. Thompson
