Discovering San Pedro de Atacama

As I stepped off the plane and into the dry, arid air of San Pedro de Atacama, I knew I was in for an adventure unlike any other. This remote town in northern Chile is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with its rugged landscapes and unique wildlife just waiting to be explored. Following a conference in Santiago - I was eager to spread my travel wings, make some new connections and discover this wonderous new destination. With a lovely group of like-minded travellers, we arrived at the beautiful lodge we'd be calling home for the next 4 nights - Explora Lodge. The lodge has a focus on relaxed luxury - a place for adventurers to experience the incredible region. Upon arrival - we were shown to our rooms, followed by a short presentation from one of the lodges guides. We were told about Explora, their sustainability ethos and explained about how the lodge amenities and guides were accessible.

About Explora Lodge Atacama:

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Atacama Desert, Explora lodge offers a luxurious and immersive experience like no other. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and natural wonders, guests can explore the beauty of the desert on guided hikes, bike rides, and horseback excursions. With top-notch amenities, gourmet dining, and a focus on sustainability, Explora lodge is the perfect oasis for those seeking adventure and relaxation in one of the world's most unique destinations.

One of the absolute highlights of my trip was the opportunity to see flamingos in their natural habitat. This was our first excursion from the lodge and so we didn't quite know what to expect yet. As we made our way to the nearby salt flats, we were greeted by a stunning sight - flocks of flamingos gracefully gliding across the shimmering waters, their vibrant pink feathers contrasting beautifully with the stark white of the salt. We watched in awe as these elegant birds went about their daily routine, dipping their curved beaks into the water in search of food. It was a truly magical experience, one that I will never forget.

But the wonders of San Pedro de Atacama didn't end there. Another unforgettable moment was our visit to Mars Valley, also known as Valle de la Luna. As I hiked through this otherworldly landscape, I felt like I had been transported to another planet. The towering sand dunes, jagged rock formations, and vast salt flats all combined to create a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie.

As I stood at the edge of a cliff, gazing out at the sprawling valley below me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the sheer beauty of nature. The colours of the setting sun bathed the landscape in a warm, golden glow, casting long shadows and creating a sense of peace and tranquility.

San Pedro de Atacama is so much more than just a destination - it's a place where you can connect with the earth and marvel at its beauty in all its forms. Whether you're watching flamingos in a salt flat or hiking through a Martian landscape, this town offers experiences that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

So if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, look no further than San Pedro de Atacama. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.