The Atacama region, partly made up of the desert of the same name, is a magical place that encompasses the flowering desert, towering volcanoes, blue lagoons and striking white-sand beaches dotted with jet-black rocks. The peaceful city of Copiapó, at the heart of the region, makes a good base from which to explore. Learn about the city’s long history of silver mining with a visit to its museums and the old Chañarcillo mine.
Rent a Jeep and head north of the city to get the best views of the flowering desert. This phenomenon occurs when El Niño raises sea temperatures and, like a miracle, it rains in the desert and unusual species of wildflowers bloom.
Get away from it all in a seaside cabin at Bahia InglesaOpens in a new window, a striking beach with white sand, black rocks and turquoise waters, set in a dramatic location with immense desert beyond. Nearby, peaceful Playa Rocas Negras is great for fishing, while Playa Las Machas is the place to go for swimming and watersports.
Gaze across one some of the country’s tallest mountains with a hike up Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest active volcano. This is one of the best spots for mountaineering in Chile, with incredible views attracting climbers from around the world.
Explore the Parque Nacional Nevado de Tres Cruces to see another volcano, the towering Tres Cruces. The area also boasts a dazzling white salt flat and the azure waters of the Laguna Santa Rosa and Laguna del Negro Francisco. To the north, see foxes, vicuñas and Humboldt penguins at the Pan de Azúcar National Park, a magical place that survives thanks to a thick fog called the camanchaca that rolls in from the ocean.
To reach Atacama, fly into Desierto de Atacama Airport from some Chilean cities or ride long-distance buses and coaches. Surprisingly, the fertile valleys near the coast support vineyards. Don’t leave without trying the brandy-like drink pisco, which is also made here.
