We embarked on an exhilarating journey, flying from Santiago to Calama, where we picked up our rental car from Avis. With the keys in hand, we set off on a self-driving adventure, making our way from Calama to San Pedro, which would serve as our home base for the next few days.
Our stay in the Atacama Desert spanned three unforgettable days, and our self-driving routes were meticulously planned into three distinct segments:
1. The San Pedro Loop: This route was a captivating exploration of the lunar-like landscapes, with a primary focus on the Valley of the Moon. We also discovered several breathtaking sunset viewpoints, such as Mirador Likan-Antay, and ventured into the eerie beauty of Death Valley.
2. The Southern Expedition: This was the most extensive and rewarding day, taking us through a series of mesmerizing salt flats. Our journey included visits to the stunning Laguna Cejar, the enchanting Ojos del Cejar, the serene Laguna Chaxa, and the majestic twin lakes of Minique and Miscanti. The striking red rocks of Piedras Rojas added a dramatic touch to this already impressive route.
3. The Northern Escape: While we had the option to explore the geysers at Tatio, we opted for a more relaxing experience. Instead, we drove to the secluded desert oasis of Puritama, where we soaked in the soothing hot springs, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Atacama.
