Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa

Escape to a world of clear night skies, high altitude lagoons and moon-like valleys at Tierra Atacama. High in the northern desert of Chile, our Tierra Atacama lodge encapsulates exquisite design, authentic experiences and an intimate, home-away-from-home atmosphere, where a sense of both adventure travel and pure relaxation lingers in the air.

The essence of this unforgettable desert landscape is at the heart of Tierra Atacama. The property was designed by some of Chile’s most renowned architects, with regional sensibilities, eco-friendly design and boutique comforts firmly in mind. Come to Tierra Atacama for experiences that will leave you feeling fully restored by the time you leave.

The essence of the unforgettable Atacama desert landscape is at the heart of Tierra Atacama, while also making it both accessible and people-orientated. Our Atacama desert hotel is situated on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama, and has been voted one of the best all-inclusive San Pedro de Atacama hotels.

The property was designed by some of Chile’s most renowned architects, with regional sensibilities, eco-friendly design and boutique comforts firmly in mind.

Living spaces showcase San Pedro de Atacama locally made trinkets and crafts, fire pits on the outdoor terrace will keep you cozy during those starlit evenings, and a modern take on High Andean cuisine leaves you totally satisfied, ready to explore the best of this inspiring place.

Your experience at our Tierra Atacama adventure & spa hotel is made all the more special through our personalized excursion plan, offering a huge array of activities from horseback riding to volcano hiking, as well as soothing sessions in the Uma Spa, complete with a menu of treatments influenced by the desert climate, native flora and ancient therapies.

During your trip to Chile – come to Tierra Atacama, for experiences that will leave you feeling fully restored by the time you leave. We generally recommend that you stay at least 3 or 4 nights at Tierra Atacama. This will give you time to unwind, relax and take in a number of Atacama Desert Highlights. Consult this sample itinerary for your Atacama Desert stay.

However, you can easily spend a week in this stunningly beautiful, stark desert environment without getting bored. If you are interested in climbing the Lascar volcano you should plan on staying at least 5 nights, since you will need to aclimatize and do some practice hikes in the preceding days.

ROOMS & SUITES
At Tierra Atacama, we have created a serene space in our guest rooms. Touches of local culture are everywhere, from handwoven throws to cowhide rugs and llama figures carved from the volcanic rock of nearby Toconao.

All rooms look out over the Andes mountain range and nearby volcanoes, with views of the desert from the moment you wake, to the moment you fall asleep. As well as honoring the heritage and landscape of the region, the rooms are full of sumptuous features.

You’ll find soft beds dressed in fine cotton, private terraces with sweeping views of Licancabur Volcano or the Cordillera de Sal, and al fresco bathrooms for showering under a night sky glowing with stars.

ORIENTE ROOMS
The intimate Oriente Rooms are awash with nude and cocoa tones, with large canopy beds facing wide, sliding glass doors and the Licancabur Volcano views which lie beyond. Step outside onto your own private terrace and take in Atacama’s most famous peak, breathtaking by both day and night. Meanwhile, sleek, en suite bathrooms are clad in cool slate and frosted glass; you can even choose between interconnecting indoor and outdoor showers.

PONIENTE ROOMS
Capturing the same spellbinding views of the Licancabur Volcano as the Oriente, the Poniente Rooms promise more space and special, subtle touches. The rooms invite guests to luxuriate under star-studded skies in Tierra’s signature outdoor showers.

The Poniente Rooms also include deep-soak bathtubs in the en suites for extra indulgence. The ambience within Poniente rooms is light and airy, with neutral tones creating a tranquil space for rest and relaxation. Enjoy the private terrace, looking out towards the Cordillera de Sal and over Tierra’s gardens and solar plant fields.

FAMILY ROOMS
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, our expansive Family Rooms are the answer. Accommodating up to six people, the Family Rooms are sprawled over two levels, with two twin rooms downstairs and a master bedroom upstairs, each featuring their own en suite bathroom.

Throughout the Family Rooms you´ll find the same local touches and sophisticated feel of the Oriente and Poniente options, with an earthy color palette matching the ever-present scenery, to be admired from the privacy of your large terrace.

DINING
The dining experience at Tierra Atacama takes advantage of local produce, filling the menu with innovative twists on north Chilean cuisine. With the potential for warm days and the hotel’s high-altitude location, our expert chefs create dishes that are light and tasty, not heavy or overwhelming.

This approach complements the local traditions with fresh, colorful salads, Peruvian corn, quinoa and a range of appetizing meat or vegetarian mains. Every day the focus is firmly fixed on using innovative techniques and a modern approach to both the flavor and presentation of the dishes, while also staying true to regional recipes and seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant itself is also a reflection of the balanced approach taken to the food. Here, floor-to-ceiling windows on all sides allow daylight to stream in and guests to gaze across the beauty of the desert, the perfect complement to any meal. With soft white drapes and raw stone walls separating the space, our restaurant feels like a continual extension of the surrounding landscape.

THE BAR
When it’s time for a drink, whether it’s one of our many delectable teas, craft beer or our signature Rica Rica Sour cocktail, we have it covered. Ask one of our restaurant staff for a taster board of select cheeses and handmade empanadas, or maybe a slice of sweet kuchen cake – a Chilean favorite – to accompany your freshly brewed coffee or perfectly chilled glass of Chilean wine.

SPA & WELLNESS
Uma Spa at Tierra Atacama invites you to rejuvenate while contemplating the Licancabur Volcano, its energy emanating throughout our wellness center. Water – ‘Uma’ in the native Aymara language – is at the heart of our spa.

This is something you’ll discover when soaking in the al fresco hot tub, enjoying a spa circuit as you drift between the indoor pool and steam room, or going for a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. Our treatments incorporate natural ingredients from the region, such as sheep’s milk, honey and clay.

The spa design is light and airy, with huge windows that bring you closer to the pristine environment. This space, created to mirror the essence of the desert, is waiting to restore your mind, body and soul.

The yoga area is located on a shaded, outdoor platform in the middle of our gardens, so you will feel at one with the desert while you practice your poses. At Tierra Atacama, you’ll find endless ways to reconnect with yourself and nature.

SPA FACILITIES
Our Uma Spa has an array of facilities, offering restorative experiences for our guests. Outside, you can bathe in the waters of our al fresco hot tub while admiring the Licancabur Volcano. Or, enjoy a dip in the infinity pool, surrounded by our hotel gardens, before taking a rest on one of our wicker sun loungers and absorbing the Atacama views.

Our indoor space, bedecked in natural stone walls and a bamboo canopy, is just as enticing, complete with a heated pool with water jets and bubble beds. Opt for a spa circuit, incorporating the pools as well as the steam room and relaxation space, to leave feeling entirely energized.

THERAPIES & MASSAGES
Indulge with a spa therapy in our treatment rooms, where an ambience of calm is created through soft light, gentle music and aromatherapy oils. Choose from an list of facials, massages, body wraps, scrubs, treatments and alternative therapies, using natural ingredients such as volcanic mud, lithium-rich salt and desert herbs.

What’s more, should you wish to combine a day’s adventure into the Atacama Desert with a spa treatment to match, then our pairing menu is just the ticket. These combinations have been created by our health and expedition experts, to compensate the demands of each excursion with a spa therapy.

So, after hiking through Moon Valley, return to our Uma Spa for a Reiki & Crystal Massage to keep your energy balance maintained; or, choose the Saddle & Soak, rounding off a long day on horseback with an immersion in our hot tub to relieve soreness and tired legs.

YOGA & MEDITATION
Our yoga spaces allow you to connect with the Atacama Desert’s energy. Yoga classes are booked in the spa area and either held inside our wellness center or on our outdoor yoga platform. There are also plenty of peaceful spots to be found if you simply feel like having a moment to be alone, meditate and take in the views.

Take a seat in our wicker hammocks, swinging gently under age-old desert trees, or if staying indoors, then our relaxation room awaits. Recline with a cup of rica rica herbal tea or chilled cucumber water in this space, where low lighting and aromatherapy scents lull you into a restful state.

THE ATACAMA DESERT
A mystical land of ethereal desert, snow-capped volcanoes and endless salt flats, the Atacama Desert is like nowhere else on earth. It is a place where visitors arrive with intrigue, and leave in total awe.

Sitting high up in the Altiplano, the Chile desert is known for its captivating landscapes of sand dunes, hot springs, canyons and geysers. Here, glowing sunrises and mind-blowing sunsets are the norm.

After dusk, the sky is illuminated with a canopy of blinking stars, a sight unmatched anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere. Come morning, noon or night, the Atacama’s natural splendor and enigmatic energy is inescapable.

Snaking through the desert are the Andes and Domeyko mountain ranges, whose peaks can be admired from the comfort of Tierra Atacama. The Licancabur Volcano stands over the Atacama desert at an imposing 19,420ft (5,919m) and can be admired from all areas of the hotel.

In the shadow of these immense formations lie rocky, wind-hewn gorges in shades of burning red, giving you the feeling that you’ve just landed on the moon. The trickling streams and waterfalls serve as a reminder that you are still on planet earth. You’ll also discover the incredible flora and fauna which thrives here, alive and well in the world’s driest desert plains.

FLORA & FAUNA
Some may be surprised at the incredible array of life to be found in the desert of Atacama , given its extreme climate and unforgiving terrain. However, there is plenty here to keep wildlife enthusiasts happy. Our guides will lead you to the feeding grounds of multiple animal and bird species, including three different types of Flamingo; Suri, Guayata and Tagua.

You’ll also come across mammals such as Llamas, Vicuñas and Vizcachas. Many of our excursions in the Atacama Desert will get you up close to these endearing creatures. As for the vegetation, the desert of Atacama shelters an abundance of trees and plants, such as Algarrobos, Chañar and Schinus Molle.

You can’t miss the ever-eye-catching Giant Cactus, which is as impressive as its name may suggest! Atacama shrubbery and bushes also come in all shapes and sizes. The native Rica Rica bush plant is particularly known for the delicious, medicinal herbal tea infusion which the locals make from it.

SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA
The town of San Pedro de Atacama is an oasis in the desert, fed by two rivers: Grande and Salado. San Pedro can be found at 7,900ft (2,407m) above sea level and with a population of 5,000.

The town is encircled by active and inactive volcanoes, deep caves, salt flats and many other extraordinary, natural geological phenomena. The town is also an interesting destination to explore in its own right too.

There’s a range of restaurants, a historic church and handicraft market, as well as streets shaded by gnarled desert trees and lined with hand-made fences. San Pedro de Atacama has been the home of Atacameños for millennia, with a rich anthropological history dating back as far as 10,000 years ago.

CULTURE & HERITAGE OF ATACAMA DESERT
The people of the High Andean plateau are descendants of the Incas and Aymarás. For centuries, they have managed to prosper in this unyielding landscape, forging a culture, livelihood and set of traditions unique to the region.

An inherent respect for nature and sense of community is evident. It’s clear to see how traditional lifestyles reflect close connections to the earth and the cosmos. Gain a greater understanding of the lives of Atacameños on one of our excursions to the nearby Ayllus, which make up the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

For a real-life history lesson, our guides will be on-hand for trips to ancient archaeological sites in the region, such as the 12th century fortress of Pukara de Quitor, or the ancient petroglyphs at Hierbas Buenas; a truly captivating glimpse back in time.

Another fantastic way to explore the Atacama Desert culture is to simply pick the brains of our expert guides. They’re happy to tell you about the secrets and day-to-day life of the Lican Antay, Twanaku and Inca peoples who dwelled here.

STARGAZING IN THE ATACAMA DESERT
In the desert of Atacama, the air is crisp and the light is ever-changing. This arid expanse sprawls across almost 50,000sq m (80,000sq km) with little or no sign of man-made life and at times, zero cloud cover. The light pollution here is incredibly low, making stargazing in the Atacama Desert an unparalleled experience.

Indeed, the Atacama is considered one of the best places in the world for astronomy, which explains why the largest galactic observatory has been built here: ALMA. This project was established by the USA, EU and East Asian states, aimed at studying the inner workings of star constellations and planets throughout the known universe.

You certainly don’t need to be a professional astronomer to enjoy the stars above you, though. You can revel in the sight of perfect, star-lit skies from the privacy of your own room at Tierra Atacama. Spot constellations on our specialized stargazing excursion, or simply sit back and take in the illuminated immensity.

YOUR BASE TO EXPLORE THE ATACAMA DESERT
Tierra Atacama, situated on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama village, was designed by some of Chile’s most renowned architects and has become one of the leading renewable energy hotels in South America.

At our Atacama Desert hotel, you will be able to enjoy daily guided activities and excursions to discover local “ayllus” or villages on horseback, moon-like desert scapes on a biking tour or marvel at the geo-thermic activity at the El Tatio Geysers.

Whatever your interests and ability level, you will be able to choose excursions which will provide a personalised and unique experience of the Atacama Desert. In the evenings, you can relax by the outdoor pool as you contemplate the majesty of the volcanoes on the skyline or indulge in one of our signature massages at the Uma Spa.

GUIDED TOURS AROUND THE ATACAMA DESERT
Adventures in the Atacama Desert are plentiful, and at Tierra Atacama you will find a wonderful variety of excursions and tours of the Atacama Desert as well as San Pedro de Atacama tours. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, horseback, bike or vehicle, we’ve got an all-encompassing portfolio of activities that delve into every corner of Atacama.

Here you’ll find everything from world-class hiking tours to desert bike rides, horseback adventures to stargazing experiences, and much more. At Tierra Hotels, our small group excursions are included in all-inclusive programs. We also offer private guides and transfers if you are looking for a tailored experience just for you.

When you arrive at Tierra Atacama our expert guides will personally walk you through our portfolio of Atacama Desert excursions. The guides will get to know your interests and physical activity level, helping to create a bespoke journey for you to explore the Atacama Desert your way.

TATIO GEYSERS
Feast your eyes on the Tatio Geysers, one of the world’s most impressive geothermal sites and certainly an icon of the Atacama Desert. We’ll set off early this morning to reach the Tatio Geysers just as the sun begins to emerge above the horizon, casting an ethereal glow on vapor columns which tower over us at heights of up to 12 meters.

We’ll spend some time appreciating the wonder of this geothermal field, home to over 80 active geysers which protrude from bubbling pools of boiling water, then have breakfast with the geysers as our views. As we head home, we will often spot wildlife roaming outside, including Vicuñas, Foxes, Vizcachas and Andean Ostriches. We will stop at the picturesque, adobe village of Machuca.

Home to no more than a dozen locals, Machuca is small, cultural site to behold with its church built from wood and handicraft stalls, a charming interlude before taking the return road to Tierra.

ALTIPIANO LAGOONS
We will arrive to the remote Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons, at more than four thousand meters of altitude, for an excursion with a surprising backdrop featuring the peace and quiet of the desert and colorful salt lakes. We will visit the town of Socaire and two lookouts over the Salar de Talar, also known as “Hot Waters.”

From there, we will see the area of Piedras Rojas with its impressive geological formations, a very exciting landscape. We will visit Tuyajto Lagoon and, if the weather permits, we will have lunch outdoors and contemplate the varied palette of the Altiplano.

RAINBOW VALLEY
Unearth ancient petroglyphs and admire a kaleidoscope of color at Rainbow Valley, Chile on this half-day excursion in the Atacama Desert; a geological and archaeological treat. The drive leads us westward to the Domeyko Mountains and the Rainbow Valley, whose stripes of copper, silver, jade, violet and everything in-between lend this sacred place its name.

A 30-minute walk will allow us time to marvel at the terrain, the result of erosion and environmental processes that created this mineral-rich rock face. Once you’ve experienced the charms of the Rainbow Valley in Chile, we’ll make for the town of Hierbas Buenas, where pre-Columbian petroglyphs await.

Emblazoned on the rock walls of a natural shelter – which was hewn out of compacted volcanic ash before being used by local farmers, these intricate images depict animals and ancient hidden messages still little understood; something truly extraordinary to behold.

The Atacama Desert has an unending array of incredible landscapes and multi-coloured vistas for every visitor to enjoy. We want every day of your stay at Tierra Atacama to be unique and memorable.

Be sure to sit down with our experienced guides to plan out your personalised itinerary so that you can enjoy a range of guided tours and excursions around the Atacama Desert, as well as spending time relaxing by the pool or getting a well-earned massage at our desert spa.

FULL MOON HIKE
When the moon is full, the Atacama Desert is exquisitely illuminated; and in this light, we will experience its natural splendor from a whole new perspective. After dinner, we will leave the hotel and set off away from all light pollution to reach a truly scenic desert spot.

This leisurely full moon hike allows us to marvel at the lunar landscape beneath the silvery glow of the moon, contemplating the silhouettes and shadows found at every turn, appreciating its spectacular geography in an altogether alternative way.

After about half an hour of walking in this twilight world, we’ll stop to make a campfire and enjoy a snack here, taking in the pure magic of the Atacama under moonlight. You can also visit Atacama’s famous Moon Valley by day on another of our popular guided tours.

After your arrival at Tierra Atacama hotel, please ensure you sit down with our experienced guides who will set up a personalised itinerary to enable you to enjoy the Atacama excursions and tours which are most interesting for you.

HORSEBACK RIDING
Soak up the stunning scenery as you walk, trot, or canter along, feeling closer than ever to nature on whichever route you opt for at Tierra Atacama. The difficulty level and duration of the horse rides are up to you: they can take between 2-5 hours and be as easy or challenging as you like!

What’s more, as part of our commitment to sustainability, we always work with small, local providers; our guides are true experts in their field and take great care of their beautiful horses, using typical Chilean riding gear. So, saddle up and prepare for an energizing excursion deep into the Atacama.

CLIMB THE LASCAR VOLCANO
Conquering the elements, altitude and weary legs to reach the rim of the Lascar crater is a mission that promises all the thrills of a strenuous mountain climb. You’ll earn effortlessly beautiful scenery along the way and an opportunity to boast that you climbed Lascar Volcano, the most active volcano in northern Chile!

Departing the hotel in the safe hands of our expert local guides, you will travel by van across the plains to the trailhead. The drive will gradually ascend to a starting altitude of 4,800m (16,000ft), passing the blissful waters of Laguna Lejía on the way.

You’ll experience an increase in altitude of roughly 600m during the 3km hike, with each exciting step taking you closer to the tantalizing prospect of steaming fumaroles and smoking potholes, both of which fill the main crater of the Lascar Volcano.

The rocky trails do not require technical ability, though the climb is relatively steep, snaking your way up the south-eastern side of this famous Chilean landmark. Upon reaching the crater’s edge, the resulting vistas are all about the sprawling salt flats and adjacent Laguna Lejía below. The sheer spectacle of witnessing the inner workings of a slowly depleting volcano up close is an irreplicable and unforgettable experience.

If you’re interested in volcanoes, you might like to read our blog article about the Licancabur volcano. This enormous volcano, sacred to the indigenous people, dominates the skyline and fascinates those who visit San Pedro de Atacama.

BIKING QUEBRADA DEL DIABLO
Feel the exhilaration of pedaling through spellbinding landscapes towards the Quebrada del Diablo ‘Devil’s Canyon’, witnessing scenic sights across the Atacama as you go. Having geared up and prepared our bicycles at the hotel, we will start our exploration of the local area, beginning with a ride along the banks of the San Pedro River, at 2,400m (7,900ft) above sea level.

Bumble along the dusty pathways, with the beautiful mountains accompanying you along the way, before crossing the cool, gentle waters of the river to reach the other side. Soon after, we will arrive at the Quebrada del Diablo, a dried-up riverbed with towering walls of red clay and beguiling rock shapes; a naturally formed bike trail for us to zip along.

The path leads us up higher and higher until we reach the end of the canyon and our lookout point, looking out over rugged, rocky earth juxtaposed with the lush green of the Catarpe plantations. After taking in this view, we make our way back to the hotel, following the meandering waters of San Pedro River as our guide.

CERRO TOCO VOLCANO CLIMB 
Located just 6km from the border between Chile and Bolivia, Cerro Toco is as awe-inspiring to look at from the ground, as the expansive panoramas are to be enjoyed from its summit. This depleted volcano is far less-visited than its better-known nearby cousins of Licancabur and Lascar, though offers equally astounding views, a solid level of hiking and just as much sense of achievement in reaching its peak as with any mountain in the surrounding Andes.

Departing the hotel, you will travel by van across the plains to the trailhead, gradually ascending to a starting altitude of 5,000m (16,400ft), where the dusty roads lead into rows of dramatic hills, some of which may be dusted with snow, though all will look even more magnificent from atop Cerro Toco!

The ascent can be taken at a steady pace, as this high-altitude trek is very much about the enjoyment of the climb, ensuring enough energy is left to indulge in its aerial rewards. Having traversed the trails to 5,600m (18,700ft), take a moment to revel in the surrounding mountainscape, with views out to Laguna Blanca and the Salar de Atacama being of particularly spectacular note, before gradually making the descent back to the awaiting support vehicle and home.

GUATIN GATCHI VALLEY
Expect a confection of distinctive desert plant life and trickling rivers, on this tour to the Guatin Gatchi Valley. A short drive takes us to this flourishing valley, where we’ll start by hiking through a Cardon forest, encountering the giant cacti that are known to thrive in the area before hiking to the confluence of two rivers: the Puritama and Purifica.

What’s notable about these colliding rivers is that the former is made up of warm, thermal waters while the latter is cool, mountain meltwater, and together they merge to give birth to the Vilama River, which in turn brings life to Guatin Valley’s delicate ecosystem.

We’ll continue our way through the valley, over a rocky pathway dotted with small waterfalls and across the gushing river, passing interesting vegetation endemic to the region along the way. Then, a captivating panorama of the sweeping valley below makes for a worthy finale to this refreshing walk in Guatin Gatchi.

QUEBRADA DEL DIABLO & THE VILAMA FORTRESS
Discover the beguiling land formations of the Quebrada del Diablo and enjoy a dose of local heritage, here in the Cordillera de la Sal. Having driven to the cusp of the ‘Devil’s Canyon’, we’ll begin our hike through this dried-up river bed, meandering along flat terrain which is flanked on each side by ethereal, craggy rock walls.

This trail will then lead up a steady ascent to a lookout point, rewarding all effort with far-reaching views out towards the rippling mountains and volcanoes that surround us.

From here, we’ll come across historic petroglyphs etched into the rock walls – a sign of travelers and traders having used this very same route for hundreds of years – all before finishing the hike at Vilama; a historic fortress that blends seamlessly into its earthen-hued environment.

Rooms: 32

Price: from 1.317 EUR per night

Source: www.tierrahotels.com