Natural Wonders of Chile and Bolivia 2024/2025

Flight to Santiago de Chile

Our journey begins with passport and baggage check-in for the flight to Santiago de Chile. This vibrant capital, brimming with magnificent landscapes and historical beauty, sets the stage for an enchanting exploration of culture and natural splendor.

Santiago de Chile, Calama, San Pedro de Atacama, Valle de la Luna

After arrival, a connecting flight to Calama is followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive to San Pedro de Atacama. En route, we stop at a panoramic viewpoint of Salar de Atacama and the Andes.

Upon reaching the hotel, take a short break before embarking on a journey to the Moon Valley (Valle de La Luna), known for its captivating otherworldly landscape. Return to the hotel for a memorable experience in the Atacama Desert.

El Tatio Geyser

Around 5 in the morning, our journey begins to the El Tatio Geysers, the third-largest geyser field globally, offering an otherworldly spectacle.

At dawn, witness the extraordinary display of steam erupting from geysers, creating a landscape akin to an alien planet. Enjoy breakfast in this unique setting and indulge in a thermal bath in the geothermal field.

Continuing through the Putana area, observe local fauna before reaching the village of Machuca at 4000 meters above sea level. After returning to the hotel, participants have free time.

Optional: Join an astronomical excursion, delving into the experience of star observation and the surrounding universe.

Atacama Desert

Bolivia, Laguna Colorada, Villamar

At 6:00 AM, our adventure begins at the Chilean-Bolivian border in San Pedro de Atacama (2430 meters above sea level). We’ll switch to 4x4WD vehicles and head to Laguna Blanca and Verde near the Licancabur volcano (5960 meters). Then, we’ll visit the nesting ground for over 30,000 flamingos at Laguna Colorada.

Next, we’ll explore the Salvador Dali Desert, featuring thermal pools, geysers at Sol de Mañana (90°C), and volcanic landscapes. Along the way, we’ll encounter Andean wildlife like vicuñas, ostriches, foxes, viscachas, and llamas.

In the evening, we’ll reach Villamar for an overnight stay at a comfortable hotel, preparing for more adventures in this remarkable region.

Salara de Uyuni

Our day begins with an early start as we visit the ancient cave paintings near Tomas Lajas. We’ll then travel through Villa Alota, Culpina K, and San Cristobal, making our way to the old train cemetery.

Continuing on, we’ll head towards Uyuni, a three-hour drive, until we reach Colchani, a charming artisan town on the outskirts of the expansive Uyuni salt flats. Here, we’ll observe local salt extraction practices.

Tonight, our accommodation is truly unique—an extraordinary salt hotel perched at an altitude of 3990 meters above sea level. This offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of this captivating region.

Our journey unfolds, revealing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable area.

Salara de Uyuni, Inca Huas

We start our day at 7:00 AM with a drive across the stunning Salar de Uyuni, often called the “white desert.” Our first stop is the ‘Stairway to Heaven,’ an artwork by renowned Bolivian artist Gaston Ugalde, set against the backdrop of this surreal landscape.

Next, we’ll discover the ‘Eyes of the Salt,’ natural openings revealing underground rivers beneath the salt flats. We’ll also explore Inca Huasi Island at the center of the salt flat, a vibrant oasis amid the vast whiteness.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Coquesa, known for its ancient ‘mummies’ dating back to pre-Columbian times. On our return to Uyuni, we’ll savor a mesmerizing sunset.

During the rainy season, the Salar transforms into the world’s largest natural mirror, attracting global tourists for its unique beauty.

La Paz, Copacabana

Following breakfast, we’ll transfer to Uyuni Airport for a flight to La Paz. Upon arrival, our journey continues north, hugging the shores of Lake Titicaca and running parallel to the majestic Andes Royal Range.

Our destination is the charming town of Copacabana, where we’ll explore its historic church and pay homage to the famous ‘Virgen Morena.’ This leg of our journey promises a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural exploration in this enchanting region.

Copacabana, Sun Island, La Paz

Today, we’ll explore the enchanting Lake Titicaca. Early birds can relish a mesmerizing sunrise. We’ll set sail across the lake by boat, visiting Isla del Sol and Huacani for a traditional Altiplano lunch called Aptapi.

Our journey continues to Yumani, where we’ll discover the famous stairs and the Fountain of Eternal Youth. As the day concludes, we’ll return to Copacabana by boat and then head to La Paz for our overnight stay.

This day promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery in this remarkable region.

Departure from La Paz

After breakfast, we’ll dive into the vibrant capital of Bolivia, La Paz, nestled in a valley at the Andes’ foothills. Our city tour includes a visit to the ‘Mirador de Killi Killi,’ where panoramic views of La Paz unfold.

Next, we’ll take a ride on the ‘Teleférico’ cable car, granting us breathtaking vistas of the city. This scenic route traverses the modern, upscale residential neighborhoods before concluding in the intriguing Valley of the Moon, where eroded clay formations create a mesmerizing landscape.

In the evening, we’ll transfer to the airport for our return flight. Join us for more exciting adventures with Rek Travel Adventure—perhaps next time to Easter Island?

Natural Wonders of Chile and Bolivia 2024