Bello ChileBELLO CHILE

Explore the Wildlife of the Altiplano

7 days / 6 nights · All-inclusive

Location: San Pedro de Atacama, Atacama Region, Chile

General Overview

This journey is designed for wildlife lovers who want to experience the Atacama Desert through the eyes of its native species. Over seven days, you'll venture into the Chilean Altiplano accompanied by expert naturalist guides, focusing on ethical and respectful wildlife encounters in one of the driest and most striking places on Earth.

From shimmering salt flats to high-altitude wetlands, each day brings you face-to-face with the desert's most iconic inhabitants: elegant Andean flamingos feeding in turquoise lagoons, herds of graceful vicuñas crossing golden plains, elusive viscachas sunbathing on volcanic rocks, and the cunning Andean fox surveying its territory.

Along the way, you'll learn how these animals have adapted to extreme conditions, understand the delicate balance of their ecosystems, and gain insight into conservation efforts that protect them. Between excursions you'll connect with local culture, enjoy traditional food, and unwind in thermal waters — all while staying in comfortable accommodations in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama.

Tour Objectives

  • Highlight the biodiversity of the Atacama Desert and its highland ecosystems.
  • Promote ethical wildlife observation, ensuring minimal disturbance to animals and habitats.
  • Inspire a deep sense of ecological awareness and responsibility through direct contact with nature.
  • Integrate local cultural knowledge into the understanding of wildlife and landscape.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Day 1Arrival in Calama, welcome briefing on Altiplano wildlife, short exploration of Valle de Marte, and welcome dinner.
  • Day 2Dawn visit to Chaxa Lagoon for flamingo observation (three species); visit to local villages with cultural interpretation.
  • Day 3High-altitude wildlife spotting at Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons: vicuñas, Andean geese, crested ducks, and more.
  • Day 4Sunrise at El Tatio Geysers, followed by vizcacha and bird tracking in the surrounding bofedales.
  • Day 5Guided hike along the Cactus Route (endemic flora, hummingbirds, small mammals); afternoon at the Rainbow Valley for wildlife photography.
  • Day 6Wildlife trekking in Catarpe canyon (Andean foxes, eagles, kestrels) and relaxation at Puritama Hot Springs.
  • Day 7Breakfast, wrap-up wildlife discussion, and transfer to the airport.

What's Included

  • Accommodation in a 4-star hotel.
  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinners.
  • Ground transportation and airport transfers from/to Calama.
  • Entry fees to nature reserves, salt flats, lagoons, and hot springs.
  • Wildlife observation excursions with guides, binoculars, and educational materials.
  • Full accident and health insurance.
  • Continuous support from certified professional guides specialized in conservation.

Explore the wildlife of the Altiplano

Seven days of ethical wildlife encounters in the Atacama Desert.

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