Full Day Tour to Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons and Chaxa

The full day tour to Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa offers a chance to explore the stunning Atacama Desert. Starting at $105 per person, it includes breakfast, lunch, and a personalized experience with a maximum of 18 travelers. Though entrance fees are additional, knowledgeable local guides lead participants through breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife. With a 95% recommendation rate, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those in good physical condition. What else can this tour offer beyond the standard highlights?

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the stunning natural landscapes of Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa in the Atacama Desert.
• The tour includes breakfast and lunch, with a starting price of $105 per person and a maximum group size of 18 travelers.
• Entrance fees to the sites are not included in the tour price and need to be paid separately on the day of the tour.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions, and children under 7 years old are not allowed.
• The tour is guided by knowledgeable locals, providing insights into the unique geology and wildlife of the region.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa in the heart of Chile’s Atacama Desert.

With 240 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, the tour provides a comprehensive experience at a starting price of $105 per person.

Breakfast and lunch are included, with a 6 AM pickup time.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, allowing for a personalized experience.

A personalized experience is guaranteed with the tour’s limited group size of no more than 18 travelers.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Highlights and Inclusions

The tour offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes and cultural experiences.

It visits Piedras Rojas, the Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa over a full day. Breakfast and lunch are included, featuring local fruits, breads, juices, and sweets.

With a maximum of 18 travelers, the small group size allows for an intimate experience. Entrance fees to the sites aren’t covered, costing extra.

While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour provides opportunities to appreciate the region’s unique geology and wildlife.

Entrance Fees and Additional Costs

Although entrance fees to the sites aren’t included in the tour price, travelers can expect to pay additional costs of $18.75 USD per person ($15,000 CLP) for admission to Piedras Rojas and $15 USD per person ($13,800 CLP) for Laguna Chaxa.

These fees must be paid directly on the day of the tour. Visitors should factor in these extra expenses when budgeting for the excursion.

Despite the additional costs, the tour is still considered a great value, offering a comprehensive experience exploring the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert.

Health and Participation Restrictions

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, there are some health and participation restrictions to be aware of.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, respiratory issues, or pressure problems. Plus, children under 7 years old aren’t allowed.

Travelers should ensure they’re physically fit to handle the high altitude and extensive walking involved.

Ensure physical fitness to handle the high altitude and extensive walking required for this tour.

However, most healthy adults can participate in this tour, which showcases the breathtaking landscapes of Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa.

Guide and Experience Feedback

Guides for this tour are frequently praised for their competence and depth of knowledge. Names like Alexander, Nicolas, Rocio, Franco, and Guilia are often mentioned in positive reviews.

Travelers highlight the guides’ ability to provide insights into the unique landscapes and wildlife sightings.

While the overall quality of the breakfast and lunch is noted, some feedback suggests the guides may rush the groups at times, leaving participants wanting more geological information and interaction.

Despite these minor concerns, the guides generally deliver a memorable experience that aligns with the tour’s high satisfaction rating.

Landscape and Wildlife Sightings

The stunning landscapes and unique wildlife sightings are consistently highlighted as major highlights of the Full Day Tour to Piedras Rojas.

Travelers are amazed by the vibrant red and ochre hues of the Piedras Rojas ("Red Rocks") formation, contrasting dramatically with the nearby turquoise Altiplanic lagoons.

Flocks of flamingos gracefully wade in the shallow waters, while vicuñas and guanacos graze peacefully on the surrounding plains.

The otherworldly beauty of the Chaxa Lagoon, set against the backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes, leaves a lasting impression.

The tour’s diverse scenery and wildlife sightings contribute greatly to its popularity among visitors.

Logistics and Organization

The tour’s logistics and organization are generally well-received by travelers.

Pickup at 6 AM and a maximum of 18 travelers create an efficient group size. Breakfast and lunch are included, providing sustenance throughout the day.

Though pickup isn’t available in Ayllus, the designated pickup points are convenient. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour is a thoughtful policy.

While some travelers mention pacing and communication concerns, the overall logistics earn praise for being well-organized.

The combination of included meals, pickup, and group size contributes to the tour’s value and enjoyability.

Recommendations and Overall Impressions

Highly recommended as a must-do tour in Atacama, the Full Day Tour to Piedras Rojas offers travelers beautiful scenery and memorable experiences.

Organized logistics and a well-curated itinerary provide great value. Travelers praise the competent and knowledgeable guides, as well as the quality of the included breakfast and lunch.

While some prefer more geological information and interaction, the tour showcases the unique landscapes and wildlife of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is 7 years old. Children under 7 are not allowed to participate, as the tour is not recommended for young travelers.

Are There Any Rules or Guidelines Regarding Photography?

The tour doesn’t have any specific rules regarding photography. Travelers are generally allowed to take photos throughout the day, though guides may provide guidance on respecting the natural environment and wildlife.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, participants can bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but additional snacks or beverages can be packed if desired.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Site During the Tour?

The tour spends approximately 1-2 hours at each site, allowing visitors ample time to explore the stunning landscapes of Piedras Rojas, the Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa. The pace is designed to provide a comprehensive yet leisurely experience.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but there’s no option to extend or customize it. Travelers must book the full-day excursion as is, though they can provide feedback to the tour operator for potential future adjustments.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Tour to Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the Atacama Desert’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. With knowledgeable local guides, a personalized experience, and high customer satisfaction, this tour is a must-do for anyone in good physical condition seeking an unforgettable adventure in this unique and breathtaking region.