The Chilean and Bolivian Altiplano
From the Atacama Desert to Bolivia's colorful lagoons, a crossing of the Altiplano between dormant volcanoes and salt flats.
Duration
13 days
From
€5,700/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This 13-day tour offers you a unique and unforgettable experience through visiting the north of Chili and south of Bolivia.
You will begin by discovering the capital, Santiago, then continue beautifully along the Pacific coast by discovering the colorful streets of the ''pearl of the Pacific'', Valparaíso, before flying north to Chili.
You will evolve in the Atacama Desert, the most arid on the planet. Then, you will immerse yourself in Andean culture, where you can notably observe the mysterious geoglyphs and visit the archaeological complexes.
You will gain altitude by discovering the sumptuous landscapes of the Altiplano. You will also be impressed by the sumptuous Bolivian lagoons and the memorable Salar d'Uyuni.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Santiago – guided city tour
Upon arrival at Santiago airport in the morning, you are welcomed by your driver and your English-speaking guide, who will accompany you to your hotel.
You then set off to discover the capital with your guide, starting with La Moneda Palace, the current workplace of the president. You then walk to the Plaza de Armas (800m), in the heart of the historic center.
Then, you head towards the famous Mercado Central de Santiago, a traditional and lively place. You can stroll between the fish and seafood stalls and, if you wish, have lunch at this location in a local restaurant.
Finally, you will gain some height and enjoy the panoramic view offered by Colline San Cristóbal de Santiago (+ 300m). After taking the funicular up, you will walk a few minutes to reach the summit, before coming back down by cable car.
You will be back at the hotel around 6 PM.
Private transport and tour with English-speaking guide
Santiago – Valparaíso - Viña del Mar
Early in the morning, your English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel to discover ''the pearl of the Pacific'', Valparaíso.
On the way, you will be able to discover the Curacaví agricultural valley and the Casablanca valley, renowned worldwide for its vineyards.
You will begin the city tour at plaza O'Higgins, where you can see the statue of the famous Bernardo O'Higgins (liberator of Chili) and, about a hundred meters away, the Congress.
You will then continue with a visit to Parque Italia and La Sebastiana, one of the poet Pablo Neruda's museum houses.
Then, you will stroll through the colorful alleys of Cerro Concepción, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view from Paseo Atkinson and Paseo Gervasoni.
You will continue towards Cerro Alegre by passing through Paseo Yugoslavo, before descending by funicular to Plaza Sotomayor and Muelle Prat (port).
You will climb to the viewpoint of Paseo 21 de Mayo by funicular to enjoy a panoramic view of Valparaiso, then you will see the Church of La Matriz, El Mercurio (magnificent building housing the oldest Spanish-language newspaper in the world) and Plaza Victoria.
You will end the day with a visit to Viña del Mar, by taking Avenida Perú, which runs along Acapulco beach.
Private transfer and excursion with an English-speaking guide
Valparaíso – Santiago – Calama – San Pedro de Atacama
Your driver will pick you up at your hotel to take you to Santiagosantiago airport.
Calama → San Pedro de Atacama
Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama
You are free in the afternoon.
Private transfer with Spanish-speaking driver.
Rainbow Valley and Valley of the Moon
The day begins with a morning excursion to discover the Vallée del Arcoíris. You will be amazed by its hills with striking colors – red, green, blue, grey and purple – the result of the region's unique mineral composition.
You will continue your visit to the Hierbas Buenas area, where you can admire volcanic rock formations and petroglyphs telling the story of ancient inhabitants.
In the afternoon, head to the Valley of the Moon, a spectacular desert location that evokes lunar landscapes. You will have the opportunity to observe the famous Las Tres Marías, rock formations shaped by wind and salt.
A short hike in the sand dunes will allow you to deepen this immersion in a unique setting.
Return to San Pedro de Atacama at the end of the day, after witnessing the spectacular sunset over the desert.
Semi-private excursion with English-speaking guide (6 people max)
Piedras Rojas – Altiplanic Lagoons
Early in the morning, you will head towards the Toconao oasis village, characterized by its volcanic stone houses and its church dating from the 18th century.
We will then climb to the Miscanti and Meñiques lakes, located on the Altiplano, at over 4000 meters altitude, in the heart of the Los Flamencos National Reserve.
You will be able to enjoy your picnic while taking in these exceptional landscapes.
You will continue south to observe the famous Piedras Rojas.
You will finally visit the charming and picturesque village of Socaire before finishing the excursion with a visit to the Laguna Chaxa, inhabited by many bird species. It is located in the Salar de Atacama, the country's largest salt desert. Surrounded by volcanoes and lunar landscapes, populated by pink flamingos, it is a surreal and memorable place.
You will be back at your hotel after sunset.
Semi-private excursion with English-speaking guide (6 people max)
Geysers del Tatio - Laguna Cejar
Very early departure in the morning to witness the splendid sunrise over the Altiplano, before observing the Geysers del Tatio, located at 4360 meters altitude.
With its fumes that create large jets of steam that can reach 10 meters in height, they will offer you at dawn a striking and unforgettable spectacle, while you enjoy a good breakfast. It is possible to swim in the natural pool.
You will descend by passing through the Andean village of Machuca.
You will be back at your hotel by late morning.
You will have free time to have lunch, then you will head towards Laguna Cejar, located in the Salar de Atacama, in mid-afternoon. Its saline waters allow you to float effortlessly. A perfect visit to escape the desert heat.
You will continue with a visit to Laguna Tebinquinche (where you can observe pink flamingos), passing by the Ojos del Salar (two freshwater lagoons).
You will be back at your hotel around 8 PM.
Semi-private excursion with English-speaking guide (6 people max).
Departure Bolivia – Hito Cajón – Laguna Verde – Laguna Colorada
San Pedro de Atacama → Hito Cajón
Early in the morning, you depart for Hito Cajón (border with Bolivia) with your driver where you will meet the Bolivian team.
You will arrive late morning at the surprising Laguna Verde (4300 m alt.) at the foot of Volcan Licancabur. You will have the opportunity to bathe in the thermal waters and stroll around the lagoons.
Then, you will head towards the Thermes de Polques by making a stop at the Sol de Mañana site. You will cross a pass of nearly 5000 m altitude to arrive at the stunning Laguna Colorada.
Along the way, you will stop at the Siloli Desert and its famous "stone tree".
You will be at your hotel at the end of the day.
Private excursion with English-speaking guide.
1001 Lagunas – San Pedro de Quemes
Désert de Siloli → San Pedro de Quemes
The path continues heading north, along the border with Chili by taking the "1001 Lagunas" route, composed of a succession of several splendid lagoons (Honda, Charcota, Hedionda and Cañapa) some of which are home to colonies of pink flamingos.
In the background, the surrounding landscape is equally impressive with multicolored mountains. During this day, each section brings its share of landscapes with eclectic facets.
Further on, you will make a stop to stretch your legs and admire the Ollaguë and Tomasamil volcanoes.
The crossing of the Salar de Chiguana concludes this magnificent day.
You will arrive at the village of San Pedro de Quemes late in the afternoon.
Excursion and private transport with English-speaking driver.
San Pedro de Quemes – Caves of the Galaxies – Salar de Uyuni – Colchani
San Pedro de Quemes → Colchani
You will start the day with a small detour to visit the little Grotte des Galaxies, a unique place with its strange limestone formations. A true wonder of nature.
Then, you will head towards the Salar d'Uyuni. Even if it was hoped for, eagerly awaited, even if you had glimpsed it in photos, it surpasses imagination. Its immaculate surface, virgin terrain for the dreams of everyone. Scattered with rare islands that will be so many viewpoints for you to observe, photograph, picnic…and above all meditate on the beauty of the world.
You will then discover the Incahuasi island where you will take a short walk (approximately 45 minutes) on a small marked trail. It is home to many cacti, placed there as if by magic…
In the afternoon, you will take the road to reach the town of Uyuni.
If you wish, it is possible to visit a small salt works in the village of Colchani. You will admire a splendid sunset over the salar.
Finally, you will end the day with a unique and unforgettable experience: you will spend the night in a hotel built of salt.
Excursion and private transport with English-speaking guide.
Colchani – Uyuni – Pulacayo – Potosí
Colchani → Potosí
Early in the morning, you depart towards the imperial city of Potosí.
Along the way, you will discover the Pulacayo mining site, based around Huanchaca, the world's second largest silver mine.
You will arrive in Potosi late morning.
In the afternoon, you will visit the ''Casa de la Moneda'', which is the largest colonial building built by the Spanish in the Americas. It is an impressive structure with a rich history.
You will return to your hotel in the afternoon.
Private transfer with English-speaking driver.
Potosí – Cerro Rico Mines - Sucre
Potosí → Sucre
Early in the morning, your guide will pick you up at your hotel to discover the miners' market (where they stock up).
Then, you will explore the Cerro Rico mines (the world's largest silver mines).
You will be back at your hotel late morning.
Early in the afternoon, you will head to the city of Sucre (approximately 3 hours travel).
Excursion and private transport with English-speaking driver.
Sucre – Santa Cruz
Sucre → Santa Cruz
At 09h00, you will meet your guide who will be waiting for you at your hotel. The latter adapts the day visits according to your wishes, do not hesitate to discuss it with him.
The day is devoted to discovering on foot Sucre, the ''White'' city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will be able to discover the Recoleta convent and the ethnographic textile museum (ASUR) located in the heights of the city, as well as the 25 de mayo square and the Casa de la Libertad (or the San Felipe Nery monastery).
You will then be transferred from your hotel to Sucre airport to take your flight to Santa Cruz (40 minutes flight) early in the evening.
You will be met by your driver and taken to your hotel.
Excursion and private transport with English-speaking guide.
Santa Cruz Airport
Your trip comes to an end, your driver will pick you up at the hotel to take you to the Santa Cruz airport (30 minutes' drive).
Private transport
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Personal expenses
- Tips
Included
- 3* and 4* hotels
- Domestic flights included
- Excursions with English-speaking guide
- Private transfers
- All entries included
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Les informations ci-dessous concernent les voyageurs ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen (EEE), de la Suisse et du Canada se rendant au Chili dans le cadre d'un séjour touristique. Les règles d'entrée pouvant évoluer, nous vous recommandons de vérifier les informations auprès des autorités officielles avant votre départ.
Passeport
Pour entrer au Chili, votre passeport doit être valide pendant toute la durée de votre séjour. Il est toutefois fortement recommandé qu'il reste valide au moins six mois après la date d'entrée dans le pays et qu'il comporte au moins une page vierge pour les tampons d'immigration.
Le document doit être en bon état (pas de pages détériorées, déchirées ou modifiées).
Séjour touristique sans visa
Les ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen, de la Suisse et du Canada bénéficient d'une exemption de visa pour les séjours touristiques au Chili.
Cette exemption permet un séjour pouvant aller jusqu'à 90 jours lors de l'entrée sur le territoire. Une prolongation de 90 jours supplémentaires peut généralement être demandée sur place auprès du Département des étrangers et de la migration (Departamento de Extranjería y Migración).
Les autorités peuvent également demander :
un billet de sortie du territoire (vol retour ou continuation),
une preuve de ressources financières suffisantes pour la durée du séjour.
Tarjeta de Turismo (carte de tourisme)
À l'arrivée au Chili, les voyageurs se voient remettre une Tarjeta de Turismo (carte de tourisme) par les services d'immigration chiliens.
Ce document est essentiel et doit être conservé précieusement pendant toute la durée du séjour. Il sera demandé lors de la sortie du territoire :
il atteste de votre statut de touriste en règle
il mentionne la durée de séjour autorisée
sa perte peut entraîner des complications lors du départ et nécessiter des démarches administratives auprès des autorités chiliennes
Santé
Aucun vaccin n'est obligatoire pour entrer au Chili en provenance de l'EEE, de la Suisse ou du Canada. Il est néanmoins conseillé de mettre à jour ses vaccinations courantes (diphtérie, tétanos, poliomyélite, hépatite A et B) avant le départ.
Pour les voyageurs se rendant dans des zones forestières ou rurales, notamment dans le sud du pays, des précautions contre le hantavirus, transmis par certains rongeurs, sont recommandées. Il est conseillé de consulter un médecin ou un centre de vaccination internationale avant le départ.
Voyage avec des enfants
Les mineurs doivent être titulaires de leur propre passeport valide couvrant la durée du séjour.
Dans certains pays européens, lorsqu'un mineur voyage sans l'un de ses parents, une autorisation de sortie du territoire peut être exigée selon la réglementation du pays de résidence. Les autorités chiliennes peuvent également demander une autorisation parentale notariée pour les mineurs voyageant sans leurs deux parents.
Autres nationalités
Les conditions d'entrée peuvent varier selon la nationalité. Les voyageurs concernés doivent se renseigner auprès de l'ambassade ou du consulat du Chili de leur pays de résidence.
Pour participer à nos voyages, il est fortement conseillé d'être assuré en assistance-rapatriement et frais médicaux à l’étranger.
Votre agence locale vous encourage à prendre connaissance du contrat spécifique élaboré avec notre partenaire CHAPKA ASSURANCES et AXA ASSISTANCE.
Pour souscrire à une assurance, connaître les garanties et les tarifs, suivez le lien ci-dessous.
CAP EXPLORER : La solution d’assurance complète conçue pour vivre sereinement votre voyage !
Choisissez la formule qui vous correspond le mieux:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Spécifiques à nos voyages, nous suggérons fortement d’y souscrire.
Si vous choisissez de souscrire à l’une de ces formules, la convention détaillant l’ensemble des garanties et les modalités de déclaration du sinistre sont disponibles sur le site Internet de l'assureur.
Votre agence locale en aura connaissance, mais seul le participant est responsable du respect des procédures de déclaration de tout sinistre. Le participant doit donc conserver cette convention avec lui pendant toute la durée de son voyage.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in Chile, a valid passport for the duration of your stay is required. A visa is not mandatory for tourist stays, provided you respect the maximum duration authorized according to your nationality. A reciprocity tax, previously required for certain nationalities, has been abolished. Entry conditions may vary depending on your nationality. Before booking your trip, consult the consular authorities or the Chilean embassy in your country of residence to find out the rules that apply to you.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 180 and 300 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and guide. International flights (1000-1500 euros round trip) are additional. Chile's distances (4,300 km from north to south) require domestic flights.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to the profile of travelers. For families, we prioritize a relaxed pace, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and depart with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Northern Atacama
Chilean southern lands explorer, based in Santiago
Chile is a country of distances and contrasts. What I love is helping travelers find the right pace to feel its full power, without just passing through it.
— Yann
