Summer Trips that Transform - Soak in the Stark Beauty of the Atacama Desert & Save in "Shoulder Season"

Soak in the Stark Beauty of the Atacama Desert & Save in "Shoulder Season" 

Great For: Families, Photographers, Birders & Active Travelers  

June-August is typically unbearably hot in the southwest of the United States. For travelers called to red rock deserts, stunning canyons, fascinating geology and a rich indigenous culture, consider venturing to Chile’s Atacama Desert during these months. Home to the world’s highest and driest desert, the far northern region of Chile has increased in popularity over the past several years, but a visit during the “shoulder season” will give you volcanic peaks and geyser basins all to yourself - true desert solitude.

Serenity and solitude at the Tatio Geysers

With a stay at Awasi Atacama, the original jewel of the Awasi trio of properties, you’ll have your own dedicated private guide & driver to structure your stay according to your interests and weather conditions. If peak bagging calls to you, consider 4 or more nights to acclimate to the altitude and then go for the summit of Sairecabur Volcano at over 19,000’ A.S.L. Or enjoy shorter outings to focus on your landscape photography skills in the Valley of the Moon, decipher ancient Petroglyphs or hike to wild hot springs.

While not often thought of for families, children 5 and over are welcome at Awasi Atacama and the convenience of having a private guide makes it easy to customize excursions into the desert for younger explorers. Children can try their hand at creating local crafts and art, keep a journal of the flora and fauna spotted during their adventures and see Saturn's rings through a powerful telescope during an evening astronomy session. Older and more active children can embark on mountain bike and horseback riding excursions, or challenge themselves with a trek to the top of a volcano after properly acclimating. Round and Superior Round suites can be combined to accommodate a family of 4 sharing an outdoor private patio and children are eligible for discounted rates when sharing a room with two adults.

The Awasi Atacama experience is especially affordable during the summer school holidays in North America. From May 1-October 31, guests enjoy an additional night free when they book a minimum of three nights in a double occupancy room.  A great stand-alone trip for a week – you cant contact Awasi directly or work with your preferred local DMC.