Tierra Atacama
ATACAMA, CHILE
THE PERSONALITIES
Desert dreamers. Stargazers. Photographers. Adventure seekers. Quiet contemplatives.
MOMENTS
Landscapes that make you emotional. Unobstructed views of Licancabur Volcano. Moon-like valleys. Clear night skies. Millions of stars.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
The Atacama is at its best from March to May and September to November—shoulder seasons when temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and the desert feels endless. Winter nights are crisp but unforgettable; summer days are dry, bright, and perfect for adventure.
COST
WHY STAY
Tierra Atacama is a boutique desert hotel located 2,407 metres above sea level in Northern Chile. Enjoy views of the Andes, nearby volcanoes, and the infinite desert. The architecture blends seamlessly with the landscape, using local stone, volcanic rock, and natural wood to create a home that feels rooted yet refined. Interiors are minimal but warm: stone floors, handwoven textiles, and terraces that frame sunrise and sunset alike.
All rooms are inspired by Atacama landscapes, with nude and cocoa accents, Tierra’s signature outdoor showers, and private terraces boasting stunning views of Licancabur Volcano or the Cordillera de Sal. The scenery is reflected throughout, indoors and out, for a true nature-inspired experience. Visit the Uma Spa for unique treatments, like Reiki and Crystal Massage, complemented by rica rica herbal tea or chilled cucumber water. Or spend the afternoon in a wicker hammock under ancient desert trees. Indulge in meals crafted from local ingredients, slow mornings watching flamingos skim salt lakes, and starlit nights that invite deep contemplation.
WHY WANDER
The Atacama Desert is every explorer’s dream, where you can wander on foot, horseback, bike, or 4x4. Hike the Cordillera de la Sal through surreal, moon-like landscapes, or climb the sand dunes of Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley). Take a rewarding soak in the hot springs of Puritama, or discover the colourful Rainbow Valley (Valle Arcoiris). Hike Licancabur Volcano and encounter flamingos or llamas along the way. Have lunch at the striking salt flats of Salar de Tala. End your days with unique stargazing experiences in one of the clearest skies on Earth. Each journey is a mix of awe, adventure, and quiet reflection.
INDULGE IN
Enjoy the flavours of the Atacama with locally inspired Chilean cuisine, crafted from ingredients sourced from the surrounding desert and Andes foothills. Enjoy handmade empanadas filled with seasonal ingredients, or treat yourself to a slice of sweet kuchen cake paired with a perfectly brewed coffee. Toast to your desert adventures with a glass of Chilean wine, each sip reflecting the unique terroir of this high-altitude region. Don’t miss Tierra Atacama’s signature Rica Rica Sour cocktail: a refreshing, herbal creation that captures the essence of the desert in a glass.
GETTING THERE
Begin your journey by flying into Santiago, Chile, where the city’s energy contrasts with the quiet of the desert ahead. From Santiago, take a two-hour domestic flight to Calama, the gateway to the Atacama. Upon arrival, Tierra Atacama arranges a private transfer through the dramatic desert landscapes, winding past salt flats, volcanoes, and desert plains.
WILD INITIATIVES
Tierra Atacama was the first hotel in South America to produce solar-powered electricity. This stunning desert retreat, nestled within the rugged beauty of the Atacama Desert, places a strong emphasis on minimizing its environmental impact and fostering a deep connection to the natural surroundings. The hotel's architecture integrates seamlessly with the desert landscape, using local materials and eco-friendly design elements. It's powered by solar panels, reducing its carbon footprint and reliance on conventional energy sources. Tierra Atacama also focuses on conserving water, a precious resource in this arid region, and employs various eco-friendly practices in waste management and recycling. Furthermore, the hotel engages in local community initiatives, supports local artisans, and offers cultural experiences that celebrate the heritage of the Atacama region. Visitors to Tierra Atacama have the opportunity to connect with the desert's unique ecosystem while knowing they are treading lightly in this fragile and beautiful environment.
*Images property of Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa