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Nature reserve · San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta
Valle de la Luna
A valley of salt, clay and sand in the Cordillera de la Sal, about 13 km from San Pedro, with dunes, ridges and caves shaped by the wind. It is part of the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Valle de la Luna
Valle de la Luna is in the Cordillera de la Sal, west of San Pedro de Atacama, inside the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos. The name comes from its resemblance to the surface of the Moon: sharp ridges, craters, dunes and salt outcrops spread across a valley surrounded by mountain ranges about 500 meters high. In 1982 the site was declared a Nature Sanctuary.
The landscape is made of layers of salt, gypsum, clay and sand that wind and ancient water have been sculpting over millennia. On hot days the salt cracks with temperature changes. The dryness is such that teams of scientists have tested prototypes of vehicles designed for Mars there.
Visits follow sectors with marked trails and entry control carried out by park rangers. Among them are the Mirador Duna Mayor, a large dune overlooking the valley; Mina Victoria, a former salt mine; and the Tres Marías, rock and salt formations that resemble three standing figures. There is also the Anfiteatro and the Mirador de Ckari, from where you can see the whole valley.
Groups enter with up to 12 people and each family or group designates a person in charge. Food and alcoholic drinks are not allowed inside the valley, and anyone who leaves the trails may be removed. It’s above 2,500 meters: bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About three to four hours, including the main sectors and waiting for sunset at a viewpoint.
Best time
Late afternoon is the most popular time: the low light turns the ridges shades of red, violet and gold, and the Andes gain color in the background. Around midday the heat and sun are intense, but the valley is quieter. Groups can wait for nightfall inside after the last entry. Check before you go.
How to get there
It’s about 13 km west of San Pedro de Atacama via Ruta 23, roughly a 15-minute drive. Many people go by rented bicycle from the town, a ride of about 40 minutes with some uphill stretches. There are also guided tours run by registered agencies, which usually depart in the mid-afternoon.
Tip
Buy the entrance ticket in advance through the official channel, because group capacity is limited. Cyclists should leave early enough to return in daylight, carry a flashlight and twice the usual amount of water. Do not climb on the salt formations: they break easily.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Valle de la Luna
Do you need to buy a ticket in advance for Valle de la Luna?
Yes, it is recommended to buy in advance through the valley's official channel. Entry is in groups of up to 12 people, with times controlled by park rangers. Those going with an agency usually have entry arranged as part of the tour.
Can you go by bicycle to Valle de la Luna?
Yes. It's about 13 km from San Pedro along Ruta 23, with gentle climbs. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a light for the return if you stay until sunset.
Can you bring a snack to Valle de la Luna?
You may not eat inside the valley or bring alcoholic beverages. Eat before entering and bring only water, which is essential in the dry heat.