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The Atacama Desert is a beautiful part of Chile, located in the far north of the country. Known as one of the driest places on Earth, this desert plateau is a popular part of many trips to the South American country and is a wonderful destination full of spectacular scenery, wildlife and outdoor experiences. One of the charms of this part of Chile is the contrast with the rest of the country. The flat, arid landscapes are a stark contrast to the green mountains of the Lake District and the dramatic views of the Carrera Austral, the snow-capped Andes Mountains or the Torres del Paine and the Patagonian ice fields. A country as diverse as Chile used to be very attractive to luxury travelers and not anymore.

One of the most famous parts of the Atacama is the Moon Valley, an incredible lunar landscape reminiscent of images of Mars or the Moon with numerous small peaks scattered across the desert. It is so realistic that it is used by NASA to test their instruments.

The variety of scenery in the Atacama continues as you travel beyond the main town of San Pedro de Atacama. The town itself is small and charming, a collection of low, whitewashed buildings with a traditional market and a beautiful church. The real attractions lie outside the city where visitors can discover all that this part of Chile has to offer. The salt flats, the Salar de Atacama, are one such attraction, their appeal is obvious at first glance, with an otherworldly charm as they stretch to the horizon covered in a white crust of salt. It is here that you can find one of the rarest birds on earth, the Andean Flamingo. The contrast of the flock of pink birds against the blue sky and the white color of the salt is a very special sight.

Tatio Geyser is another feature of the desert, located at an altitude of more than 14,000 feet above sea level. They are most powerful first thing in the morning so it’s worth getting an early start to see the impressive plumes of white vapor in the air.

This extraordinary atmosphere deserves a hotel to match, and the Atacama certainly delivers. There are many luxury hotels to choose from with beautiful facilities and perfect facilities to explore this special part of Chile.

Avasi Atacama

Avasi Atacama is the only luxury hotel in the city of San Pedro de Atacama. Tucked away in the center, it’s barely noticeable, yet behind the doors lies a quiet retreat that offers 12 beautiful suites, the amazing food and exceptional service for which Avasi Hotels have become known.

The property is truly a haven and once inside the doors, guests feel complete seclusion and peace. The rooms are spacious yet comfortable, all built using traditional adobe materials that were created over a period of two years by local artisans. The focus is on local materials with traditional textiles and furniture throughout the hotel. Terracotta walls are complimented with bright fabrics and splashes of white and cream to cut through the traditional palette.

Activities at Avasi Atacama include all the traditional sites of the Atacama Desert. What’s special about Avasi is that each room comes with its own private guide and vehicle, meaning guests can enjoy a very special experience. The food here continues the theme with dishes personally selected by the head chef and made using local ingredients wherever possible. Inspiration is drawn from the desert surroundings as well as the vast Chilean landscapes.

This is a beautiful hotel in an exceptional location.

Tierra Atacama

Tierra Atacama is located outside the city of San Pedro de Atacama and this location allows it to offer some exceptional views. Like its sister hotels in Torres del Paine and Chiloi Island, it is known for its striking architecture, simple yet elegant design, and warm and friendly service.

The rooms here are bright and spacious with views of the surrounding hills. Clean lines and crisp linen are complimented with warm accents of wood and traditional stone. The private terrace is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the desert.

The spa and pool area at Tierra is particularly special. With a range of luxurious treatments to choose from, a beautiful infinity pool with views over the Likankabar volcano, sun deck, hot tub and yoga spaces, this is the ultimate in luxurious tranquility.

Nayara Alto Atacama

The Nayara sits on the opposite side of Alto Atacama town from most of the other luxury hotels and with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains beyond. Naira perfectly encapsulates Atacama’s materials, colors and aesthetic while offering total luxury from service to design to experience.

Rooms at the Atacama use floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open onto private terraces and offer spectacular views of the valley. The décor is a perfect blend of desert terracotta while local textiles and materials add charming accents.

The cuisine at Nayara Atacama combines the flavors and ingredients of northern Chile and the surrounding Andean mountains to create elegant and delicious dishes. Guests can enjoy a traditional Latin American asado, cooked as a quincho, a typical Chilean method of cooking outdoors for a delightful and authentic way to enjoy food.

This hotel offers the best of the Atacama Desert in a beautiful luxury setting.

Explore the Atacama

Explora is located next to Tierra Atacama and is a fantastic hotel option for the Atacama Desert. This property offers what Explora does best, total immersion in the surroundings with impressive activities, all from the base of a simple yet elegant property. Like its sister hotels in El Chalten, Torres del Paine, the Peruvian Sacred Valley and the Bolivian Altiplano, it combines trademark white and simple design with excellent service and guest experiences.

Explora’s rooms embrace the concept of simplicity and tranquility. The walls are whitewashed, the linens are crisp neutrals with traditional accents and the furniture is simple yet comfortable. The focus is on the beautiful rustic and overall guest experience. Choose from a carefully curated menu of activities designed to make the most of what this extraordinary part of Chile has to offer. From horse riding to stargazing, guests can enjoy something different every day.

Gastronomy is a highlight at Explora Atacama with a menu designed by Virgilio Martinez of Central in Lima. He makes the most of ingredients from the desert and Andean region, creating delicious dishes for the most discerning palate.

Enjoy the best the Atacama Desert has to offer at this beautifully simple hotel.