Only photos of the Atacama Desert can fully express its surreal beauty because words fail. Red rocks and sand sculpt whimsical landscapes found on other planets.

Take a photographic journey through the Atacama’s wonders.

Hover for captions.

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

This small town blends old world adobe, hipster cafes, and ancient vistas (and has llamas!). Don’t forget to marvel at its charming doorways, if you’re like me, and walk through the gates one of Chile’s oldest churches. Everything here is built out of the sand.

Mars Valley (Valle del Marte), Atacama

You might not know it, but Mars is just a short trip from San Pedro. This valley is a highlight for those who want to sandboard down its giant dunes. You’ll also find a gorge, salt caves and drip-drop formations, and some of the Atacama’s most dramatic views.

Garganta del Diablo, Atacama

Biking is the best way to see the Atacama and here you’ll ride into “The Devil’s Throat.” Epic views are rivalled only by the breathtaking potholes, rocks, and tunnels you’ll navigate. This place has certainly earned its name.

Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna), Atacama

Visit the Atacama’s Moon Valley and explore swirling caverns, salt mines, and hike over rocky ridges to canyon views. The salt coating on the valley floor looks like winter in the desert and is where the lunar valley gets its name.

Star gazing in the Atacama Desert

Zero humidity in the air makes the Atacama one of the top stargazing destinations on Earth. I went with SPACE star tours to view the universe through the most powerful private telescopes in the area. 

Even just walking outside at night, you’ll be overwhelmed by the glow of the Milky Way.

Now, you’ve taken an Atacama Desert photo journey. I hope it was out of this world.