Atacama Desert Drive Itinerary

It gives a concentrated, high-impact view of Chile by road, with ALMA viewpoints adding a strong side-trip option.

Country: Chile
Region: South America
Distance: 850 km
Suggested duration: 5-9 days
Best season: March to November
Difficulty: Desert remoteness and altitude

Why drive the Atacama Desert Drive

Atacama Desert Drive is a practical 5-9 days road trip through Chile, linking Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama, Moon Valley, El Tatio with mountain roads and wide-open landscapes. The route is built for real-world planning: clear stop spacing, useful detours, and enough variety to work as more than a simple point-to-point drive.

Suggested itinerary

Start with Antofagasta and San Pedro de Atacama for orientation, supplies, and the first signature viewpoints.
Build the middle of the trip around Moon Valley, El Tatio, Taltal, leaving time for side roads, local food, and short walks.
Finish through El Tatio and Taltal and add ALMA viewpoints if weather and timing allow.

Main stops along the Atacama Desert Drive

Antofagasta
San Pedro de Atacama
Moon Valley
El Tatio
Taltal

Detours worth adding

ALMA viewpoints
Lagunas Altiplanicas
Hand of the Desert

Scenes from the road

Book this road trip

Flights Search flights into the closest useful airport for this route. Car Rentals Compare vehicle hire and transfer options for this route. Campervans Find bookable road-trip transport and useful extras. Stays Book hotels, route stops, and destination essentials. Experiences Tours, passes, ferries, museums, and guided days. Insurance Travel essentials and destination services for the trip. Saily eSIMs, navigation apps, and connectivity essentials.

Atacama Desert Drive road trip FAQ

How long do you need for the Atacama Desert Drive?

Plan on 5-9 days for the core 850 km drive. Add extra time if you want slower overnight stops, side roads, or longer detours.

When is the best time to drive the Atacama Desert Drive?

The usual best window is March to November. Check local road closures and weather before committing to fixed dates.

What are the main stops on the Atacama Desert Drive?

Core stops include Antofagasta, San Pedro de Atacama, Moon Valley, El Tatio, Taltal.

Is the Atacama Desert Drive difficult to drive?

The route is best described as: Desert remoteness and altitude. Build in time for fuel, rest stops, and changing conditions.

What detours are worth adding?

Popular detours include ALMA viewpoints, Lagunas Altiplanicas, Hand of the Desert.

See the full route, mini map, closest airports, and booking modules on the interactive atlas.

Open Atacama Desert Drive on the map →