Exploring the Otherworldly Charm of Mars Valley in Death Valley
Discover the stunning beauty of Mars Valley in Death Valley, where unique geological formations meet breathtaking desert landscapes.
Mars Valley, located in the heart of San Pedro de Atacama, is a must-visit for tourists seeking stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and an unforgettable experience. This otherworldly destination, often compared to the surface of Mars, offers breathtaking views of reddish rock formations and vast desert expanses, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the valley's unique terrain, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and witness stunning sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues.
A brief summary to Mars Valley / Death Valley
- San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
- Monday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as the sun can be intense even in cooler months.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the geological history and unique features of the valley.
- Keep your camera ready for spontaneous wildlife sightings and stunning sunset vistas.
Getting There
-
Car
From Valle de la Luna, head southwest on Route 23 towards San Pedro de Atacama. After approximately 9 kilometers, take a left onto the road to Mars Valley (Valle de Marte). This road is well-marked and leads directly to the entrance of Mars Valley / Death Valley. The total drive time is about 20-25 minutes, and you may need to pay a small entry fee at the entrance, typically around 3,000 CLP per person.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, return to San Pedro de Atacama from Valle de la Luna. From the main plaza in San Pedro, look for shared taxis (colectivos) that head to Valle de Marte. The cost is usually around 2,500 CLP per person. The colectivo rides take about 20 minutes. Once you arrive at the entrance to Mars Valley, you might need to pay an entry fee, which is around 3,000 CLP per person.
-
Guided Tour
Another option is to join a guided tour that includes transportation from Valle de la Luna to Mars Valley. Many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama offer packages that include visits to both Valle de la Luna and Mars Valley. The cost typically ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 CLP per person, depending on the duration and inclusions of the tour. Tours often provide pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.
Discover more about Mars Valley / Death Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa
1.2 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking beauty at Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa, your oasis in the Atacama Desert.
Altiplanico San Pedro de Atacama
2.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Altiplanico San Pedro de Atacama, where comfort meets the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert.
San Pedro De Atacama
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting San Pedro de Atacama, where the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert meet rich cultural heritage.
Atacama Rock and Tours
2.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama with Atacama Rock and Tours, the ultimate adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Andes Travel - San Pedro de Atacama
2.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of San Pedro de Atacama with Andes Travel, your go-to agency for unforgettable outdoor adventures and cultural tours.
Alabalti Atacama
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Atacama Desert with Alabalti Atacama's exceptional guided tours.
La Picada Del Indio
2.7 km
Discover authentic Chilean flavors at La Picada Del Indio, a culinary gem in San Pedro de Atacama, where every dish tells a story of local tradition.
Feria Artesanal San Pedro de Atacama
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture and artistry at Feria Artesanal San Pedro de Atacama, a lively marketplace showcasing local crafts and traditions.
Terrantai Lodge Hotel
2.7 km
Experience the beauty of the Atacama Desert at Terrantai Lodge, a boutique hotel offering comfort, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Una Noche Con Las Estrellas
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert's night sky at Una Noche Con Las Estrellas, an unforgettable stargazing experience.
Atacama Tours
2.7 km
Discover the beauty of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Tours, your guide to unforgettable adventures in San Pedro de Atacama.
Adobe
2.7 km
Experience the essence of Chilean cuisine at Adobe in San Pedro de Atacama, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Casa de Piedra Atacameña
2.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of the Atacama Desert at Casa de Piedra Atacameña, a delightful Western restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama.
Atacama Magic
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Magic, your premier sightseeing tour agency in San Pedro de Atacama.
DESERTOUR ATACAMA
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Atacama Desert with DeserTour Atacama, your guide to unforgettable adventures and stunning experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Valle de Marte Ticket Office
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Valle de Marte, a must-visit natural wonder near San Pedro de Atacama, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Puerta del Sol - Mirador Valle de la Muerte
0.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of Valle de la Muerte at Puerta del Sol, a breathtaking viewpoint in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.
Cruz Papal
0.9 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Cruz Papal, an observation deck in San Pedro de Atacama, offering breathtaking views of Death Valley and the Atacama Desert.
Pukará de Quitor
1.3 km
Discover Pukará de Quitor, an ancient fortress in the Atacama Desert, where history and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler.
Valle de Catarpe Ticket Office
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Atacama Desert from the Valle de Catarpe Ticket Office, your gateway to adventure and beauty.
Mirador San Pedro
1.7 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Mirador San Pedro, an iconic viewpoint in the Atacama Desert, perfect for breathtaking photography and tranquil moments.
Valle de Marte
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Valle de Marte, a stunning natural attraction in the Atacama Desert, near San Pedro de Atacama.
Meteorite Museum
2.5 km
Discover the universe's mysteries at the Meteorite Museum in San Pedro de Atacama, showcasing a unique collection of meteorites and interactive exhibits.
Machuca
2.6 km
Explore Machuca, a charming village in San Pedro de Atacama, where stunning landscapes meet rich culture and authentic local cuisine.
San Pedro de Atacama Chile
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of San Pedro de Atacama, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Chile.
Calle Caracoles
2.7 km
Explore Calle Caracoles, a vibrant cultural hub in San Pedro de Atacama, filled with unique shops, delicious local cuisine, and stunning desert views.
Mercado Blanco
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant Mercado Blanco in San Pedro de Atacama, offering local crafts, fresh produce, and authentic Chilean cuisine amidst a lively atmosphere.
Iglesia San Pedro
2.7 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage of Iglesia San Pedro in the beautiful Atacama Desert, a must-visit for every traveler.
Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Atacama Desert.
Geiser de Huaitiquina
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Geiser de Huaitiquina, a stunning natural wonder in the Atacama Desert, showcasing Earth's geothermal beauty.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Ckausama
2.3 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurant Ckausama in San Pedro de Atacama - where every dish tells a story.
Mal de Puna
2.5 km
Discover authentic Chilean cuisine at Mal de Puna in San Pedro de Atacama - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Ckunna
2.5 km
Savor authentic Chilean cuisine at Ckunna in San Pedro de Atacama - a culinary delight amidst breathtaking landscapes.
La Parada del Desierto
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at La Parada del Desierto in San Pedro de Atacama, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
San Antonio
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at San Antonio in San Pedro de Atacama – a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
LA PICÁ DEL PERRÓN
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at La Picá del Perrón in San Pedro de Atacama – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Bar Agua Loca
2.6 km
Savor authentic Chilean flavors at Restaurante Bar Agua Loca in San Pedro de Atacama - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Las Delicias de Carmen
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Las Delicias de Carmen in San Pedro de Atacama - where tradition meets flavor.
Paatcha tierra divina
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Paatcha Tierra Divina in San Pedro de Atacama – where every dish tells a story.
Paachas
2.6 km
Discover authentic Chilean flavors at Paachas in San Pedro de Atacama – where culinary excellence meets local charm.
Barros Restaurante
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Barros Restaurante in San Pedro de Atacama – a culinary delight amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.
Kusa
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at Kusa in San Pedro de Atacama - a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.
El Huerto
2.6 km
Experience authentic Chilean flavors at El Huerto, a charming restaurant nestled in San Pedro de Atacama's scenic landscape.
Inca's Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors in San Pedro de Atacama at Inca's Restaurant, where every dish tells a story.
Los Gor2
2.7 km
Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Los Gor2 in San Pedro de Atacama - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mini Market / Bakery
2.4 km
Explore the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at the Mini Market and Bakery, where fresh baked goods and local groceries await.
Valimport Supermarket
2.4 km
Discover Valimport Supermarket in San Pedro de Atacama for a local shopping experience rich in variety and convenience.
Chañar - Taller de artesanos
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant artisan culture at Chañar - Taller de Artesanos in San Pedro de Atacama, where every handmade piece tells a story.
siempre GIRLS
2.5 km
Discover chic women's fashion at Siempre GIRLS in San Pedro de Atacama, celebrating local culture and style with every unique piece.
Martinez
2.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture of San Pedro de Atacama at Martinez, your go-to general store for local crafts and travel essentials.
Piedras Australes
2.6 km
Explore exquisite handcrafted jewelry that captures the essence of Atacama's culture at Piedras Australes in San Pedro de Atacama.
Chile Infinito
2.6 km
Explore the finest selection of Chilean wines at Chile Infinito in San Pedro de Atacama, a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Almacén INKA
2.6 km
Explore authentic Chilean flavors at Almacén INKA, your local grocery store in San Pedro de Atacama, offering a unique selection of regional products.
Emporio Andino
2.6 km
Discover the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Emporio Andino, a delightful bakery and café offering local baked goods and artisanal treats.
Emporio Tanti
2.6 km
Discover Emporio Tanti, the go-to grocery store in San Pedro de Atacama for local snacks, beverages, and travel essentials.
Galeria Kunza
2.6 km
Explore Galeria Kunza in San Pedro de Atacama for unique crafts, local art, and a taste of Chilean culture in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Artesanías Santa Ana
2.6 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts at Artesanías Santa Ana in San Pedro de Atacama, where local artisans showcase their vibrant creations.
Centro San Pedro Atacama
2.6 km
Discover local handicrafts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture at Centro San Pedro Atacama, a must-visit shopping destination in the heart of San Pedro.
Atacama Craft
2.6 km
Discover the essence of Atacama culture at Atacama Craft, where every handcrafted piece tells a unique story.
Secondhand Outdoor Clothes
2.6 km
Shop sustainably at Secondhand Outdoor Clothes in San Pedro de Atacama for stylish, eco-friendly apparel that enhances your travel adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Perrock
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Perrock, a gastropub offering innovative dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Botilleria Nueva Atacama
2.6 km
Discover the best of Chilean wines and spirits at Botilleria Nueva Atacama in the enchanting San Pedro de Atacama.
REDSTONS food-cocktails-pizzas italianas
2.6 km
Experience the best of Italian gastronomy in San Pedro de Atacama at REDSTONS, where every pizza is a masterpiece.
RestoBar Nativo
2.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at RestoBar Nativo, where local cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.
ChelaCabur
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Pedro de Atacama at ChelaCabur, a lively bar with an extensive beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere.
Roots Cafe Pizza
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Roots Cafe Pizza in San Pedro de Atacama, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy atmosphere.
Cervecería St. Peter
2.9 km
Discover the essence of Atacama at Cervecería St. Peter, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and delightful local cuisine in San Pedro.
Restaurant Kunza
3.1 km
Experience the flavors of San Pedro de Atacama at Restaurant Kunza, where local ingredients meet stunning desert views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restobar Amigos San Pedro de Atacama
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Chile at Restobar Amigos in San Pedro de Atacama, where every meal is a celebration.
Tres Higeras
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tres Higeras, a charming bar in San Pedro de Atacama, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local drinks amidst stunning desert views.
Paulina Coctelería
86.2 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Paulina Coctelería, where innovative drinks meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Calama.
