Mars Valley: An Otherworldly Atacama Desert Experience
Explore Mars on Earth: Discover the surreal landscapes of Mars Valley in Chile's Atacama Desert. Hiking, sandboarding, and otherworldly beauty await.
Mars Valley, also known as Death Valley (Valle de la Muerte), is a captivating destination near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, featuring landscapes reminiscent of the planet Mars. With its vibrant red rock formations, sand dunes, and geological wonders, the valley offers a surreal and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
A brief summary to Mars Valley / Death Valley
- San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and optimal lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert climate can be harsh.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to navigate the rocky terrain safely.
- Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the geological history and unique features of the valley.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of San Pedro de Atacama, Mars Valley is approximately a 3 km walk. Head northeast on Domingo Atienza, then continue onto the road to Calama. The entrance to Mars Valley will be on your right. The walk takes approximately 45 minutes. Remember to bring water and sun protection.
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Public Transport
From San Pedro de Atacama, take a local bus heading towards Valle de la Luna; these buses often include a stop at Mars Valley. The bus fare is approximately CLP 2,500. Alternatively, many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama offer half-day tours to Mars Valley, including transportation. These tours typically cost between CLP 15,000 and CLP 40,000.
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Taxi/RideShare
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in San Pedro de Atacama. A taxi to Mars Valley will cost between CLP 10,000 and CLP 20,000, depending on the time of day and your negotiation skills. Always confirm the fare before starting your trip.
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 Atacama Desert in comfort at Hotel Altiplanico, where traditional architecture meets modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.
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.
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
Discover authentic Chilean crafts, textiles, and jewelry at this vibrant artisan market in San Pedro de Atacama. Open daily, a cultural treasure!
Calle Caracoles
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant Calle Caracoles in San Pedro de Atacama, a lively street filled with artisan shops, delightful eateries, and breathtaking views of the desert.
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
Experience the wonders of the universe at Una Noche Con Las Estrellas, where the night sky reveals its beauty in San Pedro de Atacama's pristine desert.
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.
Astronomicos.Apacheta.Sanpedro
2.8 km
Experience breathtaking stargazing in San Pedro de Atacama with Astronomicos Apacheta, your gateway to the cosmos in the Atacama Desert.
Atacama Extrema
2.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert with Atacama Extrema's expertly guided sightseeing tours.
Unmissable attractions to see
Puerta del Sol - Mirador Valle de la Muerte
0.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and vibrant sunsets at Puerta del Sol - Mirador Valle de la Muerte in the Atacama Desert, 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 the ancient fortress of Pukará de Quitor, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reveals the rich history of Chile's Atacama Desert.
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
Explore the stunning landscapes of Valle de Marte, a must-visit natural attraction in San Pedro de Atacama, showcasing breathtaking rock formations and vibrant colors.
Meteorite Museum
2.5 km
Explore the Meteorite Museum in San Pedro de Atacama, a treasure trove of cosmic wonders and celestial artifacts waiting to be discovered.
Machuca
2.6 km
Explore Machuca, a charming village in San Pedro de Atacama, where stunning landscapes meet rich culture and authentic local cuisine.
Iglesia San Pedro
2.7 km
Explore the historic Iglesia San Pedro, a breathtaking Catholic church in San Pedro de Atacama, rich in culture and architectural beauty.
Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant heart of San Pedro de Atacama at Plaza de San Pedro, where local culture, food, and stunning landscapes converge.
Cordillera traveller
2.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of the Atacama Desert with Cordillera Traveller's expert-guided sightseeing tours.
Museo R. P. Gustavo Le Paige, zona de recinto transitorio
2.9 km
Uncover the ancient secrets of the Atacama Desert at Museo R. P. Gustavo Le Paige, a premier archaeological museum in San Pedro de Atacama.
Tumisa Park
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Tumisa Park in San Pedro de Atacama, a serene oasis perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Rotonda de Sequitor
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich culture at Rotonda de Sequitor in San Pedro de Atacama, a must-visit tourist attraction in the Atacama Desert.
Mirador de Kari - Piedra del Coyote
3.7 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and mesmerizing sunsets at Mirador de Kari - Piedra del Coyote in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.
Devil's Throat
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Devil's Throat in San Pedro de Atacama, where nature's artistry meets dramatic landscapes and serene tranquility.
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.