Chile and Bolivia: Atacama to Uyuni Salt Flats

Nestled in a valley embraced by the Andes, Santiago is a captivating city, a panorama of ochre rooftops, verdant parks and the distant, shimmering cordillera, all bathed in the brilliant sunlight of the Chilean high desert. Begin your exploration at La Moneda, the presidential palace, and the nearby Court of Justice and National Congress. Discover ancient civilizations at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, then experience the city’s heart at Plaza de Armas, where the Cathedral and City Hall reside. Finally, escape to the tranquil Lastarria neighborhood, with its bohemian spirit, Fine Arts Museum, and Forestal Park along the river.

Fly to Calama in northern Chile and journey to San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis village where time seems to pause. Nestled near the Cordillera de la Sal, Nayara Alto Atacama emerges, a haven overlooking the pre-Columbian ruins of Quitor. Here, silence reigns, broken only by the colors painted across the rugged mountains. This afternoon, venture into Vallecito, a lunar landscape in the Ckamur zone. End the day stargazing at your hotel’s open-air observatory.

Wake up to the otherworldly beauty of the immense Salt Flats. Journey into its heart, discovering Laguna Chaxa, a haven for flamingos in the National Reserve, their vibrant plumage set against the desert’s stark beauty. The quaint village of Toconao offers a glimpse into local life, from its unique architecture to its agricultural heritage. As the afternoon paints the landscape, venture into the Rainbow Valley, nestled in the Domeyko Mountains.

Take to the skies by hot air balloon as the first rays of light kiss the desert. Drifting above the awakening world, the Andes loom, their peaks catching the fiery hues of sunrise, while the vast Cordilleras stretch endlessly towards the horizon. Below, the Salt Flat is a blinding white canvas. A champagne breakfast awaits upon landing. The afternoon unfolds at leisure, whether you relax at the hotel or embark on an adventure. Later, San Pedro de Atacama beckons, its bohemian spirit alive in the warm glow of the setting sun.

From the Chile-Bolivia border at Hito Cajon, the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve reveals Bolivia’s surreal beauty. Laguna Verde shimmers beneath Licancabur Volcano, its dazzling waters a stark contrast to the arid landscape. The Sol de Mañana geysers erupt in a spectacle of geothermal fury, a primordial scene of steaming fumaroles and volcanic craters. The Red Lagoon blazes with flocks of flamingos, their vibrant hues mirroring the crimson waters. Journeying towards Uyuni, the vast Rock Valley and Dali Desert are dotted with vicuñas, llamas and vizcachas.

While at Palacio del Sal, once the world’s first salt hotel located on the shores of the Salar de Uyuni, the group will travel by jeep to visit some of the most iconic sites of the Uyuni Salt Flats: from the Incahuasi Island home to thousands of giant cacti and remnant of an ancient coral reef that was once part of a prehistoric lake which covered much of the region millions of years ago, to the village of Coquesa at the foot of the Tunupa Volcano, to learn more about the mummies of Coquesa, the exploration will continue to the subaquatic caves of “Chiquini” famous for its rock art and end with the chance to enjoy the mirroring phenomena on the Salar before a sunset cocktail and a dinner on the salt flats.

Fly to La Paz, a city brimming with history and culture. Begin in resilient El Alto, where vibrant Cholets showcase local artistry and Mamani-Mamani’s murals ignite the senses. Ascend by cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the imposing Andes. Immerse yourself in La Paz’s heart, exploring the bustling Indian Market and the mysterious Witch Market. Discover the remarkable Moon Valley, sculpted by time, with Illimani Mountain towering in the background.

Lake Titicaca’s serene beauty surrounds you at Huatajata. Upon settling in, visit the Altiplano Museum and see unique mud igloos. Discover the Uru Chipayas’ intriguing mortuary towers and meet the famed Limachi family, builders of reed boats that once braved the Atlantic. Keep watch for vicuñas, llamas, alpacas and the mythical Suri bird before a hydrofoil carries you to Moon Island, home to the sacred Inak Uyu Temple. Sun Island then calls, where the Inca Grand Stairs lead to the fabled Sacred Fountain. After lunch, a cruise to Copacabana ferries you to the shrine of the Dark Indian Virgin and a lively market. On the scenic drive back to La Paz, take in stunning views of the snow-capped Andes. Cap your journey at a farewell feast that celebrates Bolivia’s culinary diversity.