Exploring the Atacama Desert on your own terms is a thrilling prospect. With a self-drive adventure, you’ll have the freedom to discover this otherworldly landscape at your own pace. Imagine gazing out at the lunar-like valleys, salt flats, and volcanic peaks – all while enjoying the comfort of a cozy hotel and the convenience of a rental car. Whether you’re seeking solitude or an adrenaline-fueled escapade, this 5-day itinerary promises an unforgettable experience in one of the driest places on Earth.
Key Points

- A 5-day self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert, with 4 nights of accommodation at the Casa Don Tomas Hotel and a 4-day car rental.
- The package includes a tailored itinerary with activities, restaurants, and sights, allowing travelers to explore the area at their own pace.
- The car rental comes with unlimited kilometers, comprehensive insurance coverage, and GPS tracking for convenience during the journey.
- Visits to renowned museums, Valle de la Luna, and Salar de Atacama are included in the itinerary to provide insights into the cultural heritage and unique landscapes.
- The tour includes pickup from Calama Airport or downtown rental office, with the activity starting and concluding at El Loa Airport in Calama, Antofagasta, Chile.
Overview

The self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert spans 5 days and is located in Calama, Chile.
The self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert spans 5 days and is located in Calama, Chile.
It’s rated 4.0 based on 1 review, providing a chance to explore this unique desert landscape at your own pace.
The package includes 4 nights of accommodation at the Casa Don Tomas Hotel, with a buffet breakfast included.
Guests will have a 4-day car rental, with unlimited kilometers and local taxes covered, as well as necessary insurances.
The tailored itinerary outlines activities, restaurants, and sights to see, though gasoline costs aren’t included.
Looking for more options in Calama? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Accommodation
4 Nights at Casa Don Tomas Hotel are included in the self-drive experience.
The hotel provides a buffet breakfast. Free parking is available on-site.
The accommodation is basic but sufficient for this type of adventure-driven itinerary. Guests can expect a clean, comfortable stay with the amenities needed to rest and recharge between daily excursions in the Atacama Desert.
The location near Calama Airport provides convenience for picking up and returning the rental car.
Car Rental

A 4-day car rental is included in the self-drive experience, providing you with a Nissan XTrail 4X2 or similar vehicle from Category D.
The rental includes unlimited kilometers and local taxes. Comprehensive insurance coverage such as CWD, PAI, and SACA is provided, ensuring your peace of mind on the road.
GPS tracking is available for your convenience. The car will be picked up and dropped off at Calama Airport around noon, allowing you to start your journey promptly.
With this reliable transportation, you’ll have the freedom to explore the stunning Atacama Desert at your own pace.
Itinerary and Activities

Although the itinerary is tailor-made, it provides a day-by-day breakdown of the planned activities and sightseeing.
The schedule includes:
-
Visits to renowned museums in the region, offering insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Atacama Desert.
-
Guided tours of the stunning Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), renowned for its otherworldly landscapes.
-
Opportunities to explore the awe-inspiring Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile.
Suggested restaurants are also included, ensuring travelers can savor the local cuisine during their self-drive adventure.
While gasoline isn’t covered, the rental package provides the flexibility to customize the experience.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers have the option to be picked up from either Calama Airport or the downtown rental office.
The meeting point is at El Loa Airport in Calama, Antofagasta, Chile. The activity starts at 7:00 AM and ends at the same meeting point.
The tour meets at El Loa Airport in Calama, Chile, starting at 7:00 AM and concluding at the same location.
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Participants should note that there’s no refund for cancellations, as the tour is non-refundable.
Additional Information
Upon booking, travelers can expect to receive confirmation within 48 hours, provided availability.
This self-drive adventure isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
Importantly, the tour is private – only your group will participate.
Lastly, the price starts from £593.40 per person, and the tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.
Key details:
-
Confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.
-
Not wheelchair accessible; infant seats available.
-
Private tour; only your group will participate.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The self-drive experience in the Atacama Desert starts at £593.40 per person. This price is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.
The tour can be confirmed within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.
The experience is a private tour, so only your group will participate. Gasoline isn’t included, and personal insurance is also not covered.
Extra days and hotel extras can be added for an additional cost. The pricing and cancellation policy are straightforward and practical for this self-drive adventure.
Sum Up
The Atacama Desert self-drive adventure offers a unique and immersive way to explore this stunning region. With comfortable accommodation, a convenient rental car, and a tailored itinerary, travelers can discover the desert’s breathtaking landscapes at their own pace. This five-day experience provides an opportunity to truly take in the Atacama’s natural wonders and create lasting memories.
More Airport Transfers in Calama
More Private Drivers in Calama
More Tour Reviews in Calama
- 3-Day Exploring San Pedro De Atacama
- Self Drive Experience in Atacama Desert – 5 Days
- 2-Day Tour to the Salar De Uyuni From San Pedro De Atacama by Bus
- San Pedro De Atacama Highlights in 3 Days! – Moon Valley & Geysers Del Tatio
- 4-Day Best of Atacama: Moon Valley, Tatio Geysers and Altiplanic Lagoons
- Atacama Desert Program 4 Days – 3 Nights
