I’m in the Atacama Desert 🏜️

The Atacama Desert, located in northern Chile 🇨🇱, is the driest desert in the world, with extremely low annual rainfall. It’s famous for its stunning landscapes, salt flats, and crystal-clear night skies. 🧡 Itinerary: Day 1️⃣ ▫️ Morning: ✈️ Santiago → Calama (2h) Rent a car at Calama Airport (6,000/10,800 (Surreal, moon-like terrain that feels extraterrestrial. Death Valley is named for its ultra-dry, lifeless environment. At sunset, the desert glows golden-red.) ▪️ Evening: 🚌 Stargazing Tour 🔭 21:30-00:00 🎫 $100 (One of the best stargazing spots globally—dry air and zero light pollution reveal the Milky Way. Highlight: 🔭 spotted Jupiter’s rings through the telescope, looking like a spinning spindle!) Day 2️⃣ ▫️ Morning: 🚗 Laguna Chaxa (flamingo-filled salt lake) ▫️ Afternoon: 🚗 High-Altitude Lakes (Lagunas Miscanti, Miñiques, Piedras Rojas) *(Lakes at 4,000+ meters, surrounded by volcanoes. Perfect for hiking and photography—mirror-like reflections and wildlife. ⚠️ DIY travelers: Buy tickets for Laguna Miñiques a day in advance and check in on the day, or you won’t get in!)* ▪️ Evening: Relax in San Pedro de Atacama (Explore the town, try local dishes like llama or lamb, and visit artisan shops for souvenirs.) Day 3️⃣ ▫️ Morning: 🚌 Tatio Geysers (Geysers del Tatio) 4:00-12:00 (Most active at dawn; steam erupts as the sun rises. Tour includes Machuca Village and flamingo lakes. 🎫 CL$40,000) ▫️ Afternoon: 🚗 Calama Airport → ✈️ Santiago 🟠 Accommodation: 🔹 Our Habitas Atacama: Beautifully designed hotel, but service was mediocre (wouldn’t let us check in before 3 PM even with empty rooms 😂). 🔹 Incahuasi Travelodge: Cozy homestay with a traditional vibe—spacious rooms, kitchen, and bathroom. Great value! 👍 🟤 Regrets: 1️⃣ Hand of the Desert (Mano del Desierto): Missed this iconic desert sculpture. 2️⃣ Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache: Salt lagoons where you can float/swim. #Chile#ChileTravel #SantiagoDIY #CityWalks #SouthAmerica #TravelSmart