Travel preparations

Here is some information to help you prepare, we hope it is useful and helps make your trip a success.

1. Things to bring and not forget

Documentation: Valid passport or ID and travel insurance.
Layered Clothing: Temperatures can vary drastically between day and night. Bring layered clothing, including thermal jackets, hats, gloves, and warm clothing.
Comfortable Footwear: Trekking boots, and water sandals or flip-flops.
Sun Protection: The sun is very strong at high altitudes. Use sunscreen regularly, and wear UV-protected sunglasses and a hat.
Light Backpack: For hikes.
Hydration and Snacks: Water bottles and energy snacks.
Photography Equipment: Camera and extra batteries.
Documentation: Passport, ID, and reservations.
First Aid Kit: Band-aids, disinfectant, and painkillers for headaches or stomach discomfort.
UV-Protected Sunglasses: To protect your eyes.
Mosquito Repellent: To avoid bites.
Quick-Dry Towel: Practical and lightweight.
Binoculars: For wildlife and landscape observation.
Currency Exchange: In San Pedro de Atacama, you can exchange Chilean pesos for Bolivian bolivianos. Bring U.S. dollars, which are accepted in Bolivia and easy to exchange.
Avoid Alcohol Before Traveling to the Salt Flats: Due to the altitude and for a better experience.

2. What Will the Weather Be Like?

Summer (December to February): Days between 10°C and 20°C, with cold nights around 0°C. Rainy season with the “mirror effect” on the salt flats.

Autumn (March to May): Temperatures from 5°C to 15°C, nights down to -5°C. Less rain, and the salt flats start to dry.

Winter (June to August): Days from 0°C to 10°C, nights down to -15°C. The dry season, ideal for stargazing.

Spring (September to November): Cool days with temperatures from 5°C to 15°C. Cold nights with lows up to -5°C, and the weather warms as summer approaches.

3. Phone numbers and links to save

The emergency number of the travel insurance that appears on the policy
The emergency numbers that appear on the vouchers of the contracted services
Traveling through Chile can mean changing time zones. There are also summer and winter schedules. Check the local time here 🔗 https://horaoficial.cl before each activity where punctuality is required.
If you cross borders by land on your trip, we recommend the 🔗 Border Crossings Unit on WhatsApp