On our second day at Nayara Alto Atacama Lodge, I was handed a helmet and asked to wear it for our upcoming hike, an unexpected start that hinted at adventure. With two guides leading the way and seven hikers in tow, we set off on the Cactus Hike, an unforgettable trek through the striking landscapes of the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile.
Just the day before, we drove an hour from the Calama Airport across a desolate desert and mountain range to Nayara Alto Atacama Lodge, near the town of San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile (elevation level 7,897!). The town was quaint, and it was surrounded by a vacant riverbed. The sun was hot, and there wasn’t a single cloud in sight, but as the evening approached, a chill settled in the air and the sky lit up with millions of stars.
The Atacama Desert is the driest non-polar desert in the world. There are no clouds, and the humidity levels are typically between 3-10%. The center of the desert will get zero rainfall, but the edges can get around 3-7 days of rain in a year, if they are lucky.
Excursions in the Desert
The Nayara Alto Lodge is nestled between three mountain ranges along the edge of the Atacama Desert. This location provides the lodge with amazing opportunities for a variety of excursions in various terrains for all ages.
To the south, the lodge offers visits to the Salt Mountain range and salt flats. Here, you can see the Andean and Chilean pink flamingos and take in beautiful sunsets. You can also tour in a luxury van with small easy walks en route.
In the northeast, the Andean and Domeyko Mountain ranges come together at an elevation of 16,800 feet. After two days of acclimation, you can tour and hike the highest geysers surrounded by arid beauty! The hike is of medium difficulty, and you can tour in a luxury van.
Closer to San Pedro and the lodge, all three mountain ranges meet: The Andean, Domeyko, and Salt Mountains. This middle area is where I found my slice of heaven. Rivers from the snow-capped Andean mountains flow through canyons creating lush desert vegetation and the most spectacular views for being in the driest desert. The majority of the excursions here are medium level hikes or biking within an hour drive from the lodge. There is also rock art to be seen in these parts which takes you back in time.
The Cactus Hike is noted as a medium level hike, not too long or too difficult. With some balance on your feet, this is a great hike for all ages. We scrambled across boulders, jumped the flowing streams, and took in spectacular views. I was even surprised to see a few clouds in the bright blue sky above! This hike is at an elevation of 10,500 feet and we hiked for about 2-3 hours with plenty of time to take in the sights and enjoy the afternoon hiking down the canyon’s waterfall.
An additional excursion worthy of your time at the lodge is the Puritama Hot Springs, an easy morning adventure. Again, more amazing waterfalls in a different desert canyon that will consume your senses as you plunge into warm water and soak up the sunny sky!
With eighteen great excursions to choose from, I look forward to going back! My next choice will be to take the biking adventure through Devil’s Throat. It is reported to hold otherworldly views as you ride (or hike) through the narrow and windy red rock canyon. And, of course, I will attend their Andean Astronomical excursion again. The starry sky with cloudless nights is remarkable! They have comfortable daybeds available as you learn about the southern sky and take in the enhanced sights from their telescope.
While staying at Nayara Alto Atacama, I highly recommend choosing excursions in the various terrains to see all the beauty the desert and mountain ranges have to offer. Before you head out, preview their excursions map. This will give you an idea of where each excursion takes place so you can select the different terrains located around the lodge.
The Atacama Desert brought many surprises I was not expecting while staying at a luxurious lodge and spa. The breathtaking views and thrilling excursions have captured my heart!