Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama

Outty Ranking 90 4.9 · 276 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $85
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Outty Ranking

90/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 276 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama worth booking?

Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama is a 12-hour experience in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, from $85 per person. It scores 90 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 276 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
90 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (276)
Duration
12 hours
From
$85 per person

Toconao (Kunza Rincón perdido) enchants for its simplicity, calm of its people, special climate, beautiful architecture and crafts; We will visit the marginal area of the Salar de Atacama known as Laguna Chaxa located in Sector Soncor R.N.L. F. Later we headed towards the South East (Cordillera de los Andes) to settle in a Socaire Altiplanic Town, we visited its Church and learned about its agriculture. Once installed in the cordon of the Andes we headed approx. At 4200 masl to meet the Miscanti and Meñiques Lagoons. These lagoons belong to the R. N. Los F., characterized by volcanoes and mountainous reliefs such as the Miscanti hill and the Meñiques volcano. Both lagoons are born from groundwater from melting ice. Continuing along the slopes of the South Andes we head to the Salar de Talar Touristically known as Piedras Rojas, where the rocks are subjected to natural oxidation and weathering.

What you get

    About this experience

    Toconao (Kunza Rincón perdido) enchants for its simplicity, calm of its people, special climate, beautiful architecture and crafts; We will visit the marginal area of the Salar de Atacama known as Laguna Chaxa located in Sector Soncor R.N.L. F. Later we headed towards the South East (Cordillera de los Andes) to settle in a Socaire Altiplanic Town, we visited its Church and learned about its agriculture. Once installed in the cordon of the Andes we headed approx. At 4200 masl to meet the Miscanti and Meñiques Lagoons. These lagoons belong to the R. N. Los F., characterized by volcanoes and mountainous reliefs such as the Miscanti hill and the Meñiques volcano. Both lagoons are born from groundwater from melting ice. Continuing along the slopes of the South Andes we head to the Salar de Talar Touristically known as Piedras Rojas, where the rocks are subjected to natural oxidation and weathering.

    What's included

    Included

    • Shared Transportation
    • Drop off center
    • Pickup Hotel
    • Lunch en route
    • Breakfast
    • Driver/Guide (Spanish and English)

    Not included

    • Entrance Ticket to Parks, Reserves or Sites to visit are NOT included in the Value of the Tour

    What you'll see and do

    1. Toconao

      Visit the Town of Toconao, crafts, square, church

      30 minutes here

    2. Laguna Chaxa

      Los Flamencos National Reserve is located in the commune of San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region in northern Chile. The reserve covers a total area of 740 km

      60 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. Tropico de Capricornio

      Stop on the Tropic of Capricorn route. The Tropic of Capricorn is one of the five major circles of latitude marked on maps of the Earth.

      30 minutes here

    4. Lagunas Miscanti y Miniques

      Visit to the Lagunas Miscanti and Meñiques National Reserve

      120 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. Socaire

      Visit to the Village of Socaire

      30 minutes here

    6. Piedras Rojas

      Trekking of approx 1 Hrs

      90 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    WHIPALA EXPEDITION

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
    • Minimum 12 years (Policies of our agency)
    • Maximum age 75 years (Policies of our agency)
    • Pregnant (Policies of our agency)
    • Does NOT include entrance ticket to sites or places to visit... the tourist pays directly there.

    Photos

    Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 2Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 3Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 4Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 5Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 6Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama in San Pedro de Atacama, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 276 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Organization

    2 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Traveler reviews

    276 verified traveler reviews for Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    256
    4 star
    10
    3 star
    5
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    4
    Sort
    A3231XJelizabethh · September 2026

    The team makes all the difference!

    When you’re visiting Atacama, many tour companies visit the same incredible destinations, but what really makes each experience different is the people you experience them with. Manuel, Daniel, and Mirko made this excursion so much more fun and memorable. All three had such bright, funny personalities and kept the energy going throughout the day. They were also incredibly helpful — whether it was taking photos, helping us get the perfect shot, answering questions, or making sure everyone was comfortable and having a great time. The scenery is beautiful no matter who you book with, but a great team can completely change the experience. These three definitely did that! Thank you Manuel, Daniel, and Mirko for such a fun and unforgettable day! ❤️🏜️📸

    via Tripadvisor

    Jasmine_H · August 2026

    Stunning tour of the Altiplano

    This tour was incredible - my favourite day in the Atacama! The pick up was well organized, and the guide, assistant and driver were all wonderful. Every sight that we visited was so beautiful - I wished we could stay at each place for twice as long! We saw so much wildlife, and the natural landscapes were stunning. Bring some of your own food, because it's a while before you get breakfast and then a long time until lunch! Do also be prepared for cold weather, mostly due to wind. The guide Lorena was so knowledgeable and delivered the tour in Spanish, English and Portuguese. She also answered so many questions, and we had so much fun as a group! I went as a solo traveller and chatted with lots of people.

    via Viator

    891adlerf · July 2026

    Amazing experience with Whipala!

    Excellent tour and excellent tour service. Did two tours with Whipala while in San Pedro and both were spectacular. Daniel is an amazing guide and every stop was incredible and well planned!

    via Tripadvisor

    Excursion02516185811 · June 2026

    A wonderful day

    At the end of the tour our eyes are full of stunning images. Also, Manuel explained us what we're going to see letting us understand what the nature created and how. At the end we had a tasty lunch in Toconao. Experience recommended!

    via Tripadvisor

    I119JEvictoriah · May 2026

    Best tour ever!

    I’ve been on many tours in many countries. Manuel was the best tour guide we have ever had! He was incredibly kind and helpful. You can tell he truly loves his country and has a passion for San Pedro de Atacama itself. He truly cares about his customers and wants them to have the best, authentic experience! Additionally, I did many tours while in San Pedro and this tour was my favorite! The nature and scenery is unearthly beautiful and pictures do not do this place justice!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    97
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by WHIPALA EXPEDITION, who run 14 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.2.

    See everything WHIPALA EXPEDITION runs

    Why this scores 90

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)88
    Booking momentum (14% weight)86
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)74
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for San Pedro de Atacama.

    How much does Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama cost?

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    Prices start at $85 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in San Pedro de Atacama usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama take?

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    Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in San Pedro de Atacama is not rushed.

    Is Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 90 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 276 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in San Pedro de Atacama, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama?

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    Around 97 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in San Pedro de Atacama can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in San Pedro de Atacama and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central San Pedro de Atacama within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in San Pedro de Atacama?

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    On Outty we rank every San Pedro de Atacama experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Half Day Tour to Geysers del Tatio, Hidden lagoons of Baltinache, Red Stones and Altiplanic Lagoons. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit San Pedro de Atacama?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in San Pedro de Atacama?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama?

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    Included: Shared Transportation; Drop off center; Pickup Hotel; Lunch en route; and Breakfast. Not included: Entrance Ticket to Parks, Reserves or Sites to visit are NOT included in the Value of the. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 30 listed pickup locations in and around San Pedro de Atacama. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and Pregnant (Policies of our agency). If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Piedras Rojas + Altiplanic Lagoons and Salar de Atacama?

    +

    Across 276 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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