Imagine a place that feels like another planet. The Atacama Desert, the driest desert on Earth, unfolds with surreal contrasts: golden dunes melting into blinding white salt flats, high-altitude turquoise lagoons surrounded by flamingos, and valleys glowing under skies so clear they’re considered the best on the planet for stargazing. Here, each sunrise paints the Andes in fiery shades, and each sunset turns the sky into a watercolor masterpiece. Atacama isn’t just a destination — it’s a sensory experience: absolute silence, pure air, and a profound connection with the land and the cosmos.
DAY 1
Disembark the ship and step straight into adventure with an immersive city tour of Valparaíso, Chile’s UNESCO-listed “Jewel of the Pacific.” Wander through vibrant hills brimming with kaleidoscopic houses, ride historic funiculars, and lose yourself in streets turned into open-air galleries of bold, eclectic street art. After an early lunch in the heart of this bohemian paradise, board a short flight that will carry you into the stark, stunning beauty of the Atacama Desert.
Upon arrival in Calama, journey across surreal landscapes toward San Pedro de Atacama. Check into your hotel and relax for the evening, soaking in the desert's mystical energy over a well-deserved dinner.
Overnight at Our Habitas Hotel or similar.
DAY 2
Your day begins with a breathtaking drive through the otherworldly expanses of the Atacama, passing the majestic Licancabur Volcano and desert flora like the tamarugo and chañar trees. Arrive in Toconao, a charming village famed for its Liparita stone architecture, before venturing deep into Salar de Atacama—Chile’s largest salt flat. Within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, explore Chaxa Lagoon, where elegant pink flamingos and countless other birds create a kaleidoscope of life against a backdrop of salt and silence.
In the afternoon, head to the mesmerizing Cejar and Piedra Lagoons, where you’ll experience the magic of floating effortlessly in high-salinity turquoise waters surrounded by volcanoes and salt formations that shimmer in the desert sun. Don’t forget your swimsuit, this is the closest you’ll come to flying!
After a refreshing return to your hotel and dinner, prepare for a truly cosmic experience. Later this evening, we’ll head out into the desert darkness for an unforgettable stargazing tour. Your guide will first orient you to the geography of the southern skies before leading your gaze through powerful telescopes at moon craters, Saturn’s rings, star clusters, and distant galaxies. Bundle up—it gets cold under this brilliant canopy. Return to your hotel filled with awe and wonder.
Overnight at Our Habitas Hotel or similar
DAY 3
This morning, delve into the history of the Atacama. Begin at Pukará de Quitor, a hilltop fortress built in the 12th century by the Atacameño people, where tales of ancient battles and resilience echo through the stones. Then, travel further back in time to the archaeological village of Tulor—a 3,000-year-old desert settlement whose circular adobe dwellings have been astonishingly preserved by the sands.
Return to San Pedro for lunch, then set out again for the mythical Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley). Pause along the way to photograph the surreal Salt Mountain Range, carved by millennia of geological upheaval. Marvel at the curious rock formations known as “Las Tres Marías”, before ending the day at the stunning Kari Viewpoint. As the sun dips below the horizon, sip a chilled cocktail of cheese and Chilean wine and watch the desert sky ignite with color—a magical finale to an extraordinary day.
Return to the hotel for a final desert dinner.
Overnight at Our Habitas Hotel or similar
DAY 4
Bid farewell to San Pedro with one last look at the Salt Mountains and Licancabur’s volcanic silhouette looming in the distance. Travel north through rugged desert roads until reaching Quillagua, where you’ll complete the required customs check before continuing to the incredible Pintados Geoglyphs—a mysterious canvas of nearly 400 ancient figures etched into the hillsides. As you snack en route, contemplate the stories these symbols might tell.
After lunch in Pozo Almonte, step into the ghostly echoes of Chile’s nitrate boom in the abandoned towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura. Explore crumbling smokestacks, processing plants, and perfectly preserved buildings like the wooden theater, church, and even a full-sized iron swimming pool—all whispering of a once-thriving world left behind in the desert wind.
Your journey concludes as we roll into Iquique, just in time to rejoin your ship—your soul stirred, and your spirit richer with the stories of Chile’s high desert.
Land Program Step by Step
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
8:00am Depart Valparaiso port terminal
8:10am Valparaiso city tour
11:45am Lunch at a local restaurant
1:00pm Transfer to Santiago Airport
3:30pm Flight to Calama
5:45pm Arrival to Calama and transfer to San Pedro de Atacama
8:00pm Check-in at the hotel
8:30pm Dinner at the hotel
OvernightOur Habitas or similar
DAY 2
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
7:00am Breakfast at the hotel
8:00am Transfer to Toconao village
8:30am Visit Toconao village
9:30am Stop at Jerez Valley viewpoint
10:30am Visit Chaxa Lagoon
1:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant
3:30pm Visit Cejar Lagoon
4:10pm Visit Piedra Lagoon
5:40pm Arrive back at the hotel
8:30pm Dinner at the hotel
9:30pm Pick up for stargazing
12:30am Arrive back at the hotel
Overnight Our Habitas or similar
DAY 3
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
8:00am Breakfast at the hotel
9:30am Transfer to Quitor Pukara
9:40am Visit Quitor Pukara
11:00am Visit Tulor village
1:30pm Lunch at a local restaurant
4:00pm Visit the Moon Valley
6:45pm Kari Viewpoint with wine and cheese
7:30pm Drive back to the hotel
8:30pm Dinner at the hotel
Time at leisure
Overnight Our Habitas or similar
DAY 4
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
6:00am Breakfast at the hotel
7:00am Hotel check out
11:00am Customs check at Quillagua (snack and water provided)
12:30am Visit PIntados Geoglyphs
1:40pm Lunch in the town of Pozo Almonte
3:00pm Visit Humberstone and Santa Laura
4:30pm Transfer to Iquique
5:30pm Rejoin the ship in Iquique
General Information
Electricity:
Chile’s electrical system is 220 volts (A/C 50 cycles). Most hotels and lodges have hair dryers. If you bring electric appliances, take along an international converter kit complete with a set of adapter plugs. Outlets in Chile require a three-pronged adapter plug with 3 round prongs. Adapters should be brought from home as not all will be provided.
Expected Weather:
Santiago: Sunny and dry with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C (59°F to 90°F).
Atacama: Arid desert climate, with daytime highs of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) and cooler nights dropping to 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F).
What to Bring:
?Sturdy Hiking Shoes – Essential for uneven desert terrain and salt flats.
?Layered Clothing – Mornings and evenings are cold; afternoons can be very hot.
?Wide-Brim Hat or Cap – For protection against the strong desert sun.
?Sunglasses and Sunscreen – High UV index in the Atacama Desert.
?Reusable Water Bottle – Hydration is crucial at high altitudes.
?Lip Balm with SPF – To prevent dryness in the arid environment.
?Light Jacket – For cooler evenings and high-altitude excursions.
?Compact Backpack – To carry essentials on day trips.
?Swimwear - For the visit to Piedra Lagoon.
Currency: Chilean Pesos
USD are not accepted at local places; however most major credit cards are accepted.
Luggage:
You may bring free of charge 1 piece of checked luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kilograms / 44 lbs. One small carry-on permitted per person. The bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you..
Excess or overweight luggage will be charged accordingly at check in for your flight. Guests will require soft sided luggage for the light aircraft flights.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1.Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2.The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).
3.These documents must be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4.Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator can be responsible for.
Please note: Some airlines may impose restrictions or specific requirements when transporting wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other assistive devices. We recommend checking directly with your airline or the Cruise Line prior to departure to ensure compliance with their policies.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required.
Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality.
Vaccination & Health Regulations:
Guests are responsible for confirming up-to-date vaccination requirements directly with their local embassy or health authority. Please note that visa and vaccination costs are not included in the price of this program.
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTATION NOTICE:
To ensure successful flight arrangements for this program, the name on your cruise booking, passport, and any required visas must match exactly. This includes first, middle, and last names, with identical spelling across all documents. Discrepancies may result in denial of boarding by the airline.
Cruise line-generated manifests must align precisely with your official travel documents.
Failure to present the correct documentation or inconsistencies in guests names may lead to denied travel or the need to re-purchase tickets at your own expense. Guests will be responsible for any additional costs incurred due to these discrepancies.
Hotel Address & Contact:
Our Habitas
Domingo Atienza 282, Antofagasta
+56552970218
Please Note: In the event of unforeseen circumstances, an alternative hotel may be arranged. Any substitute accommodation will match the original in both rating and quality. You will be informed of any changes prior to your departure. If no such notification is provided, your stay will proceed at the hotel specified in this program.
Program Includes:
?3 nights in Our Habitas Hotel - Explorer Suite
?3 breakfasts
?4 lunches and 3 dinners (soft drinks, aperitifs and/or wine included)
?Entrances and touring fees per itinerary
?English-speaking guide
?Economy-class flights per itinerary
Program Excludes:
?Any other meals or beverages not mentioned above including Champagne and premium brand spirits and liquor
?Gratuities for drivers, guides and lodge staff
?Personal expenses such as telephone calls, curio shop purchases and laundry
?Hotel incidentals, including mini bar and room service
?Visa fees if required
?Excess or overweight luggage
?Optional activities at the lodge that may include a fee
Hints & Restrictions:
?The content and order of activities in this program are subject to change without prior notice, due to the prevailing weather conditions and operational considerations to ensure guest safety and the best possible experience.
?This program reaches altitudes of up to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. While most travelers experience little to no discomfort, guests with heart or respiratory conditions or concerns about altitude should consult a physician before booking.
?This program involves moderate walking over uneven terrain and unpaved surfaces. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who rely on walkers or wheelchairs.
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodation, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
