Timeline
16:15
Drive the long, well-paved road to the entrance of the Los Flamencos national reservation. At over 4500 meters, the air is thin. Take this time to acclimatize and breathe deeply. Altitude sickness is common, so move slowly and stay hydrated.
17:15
Walk among the peculiar stone formations known as Monjes de la Pacana. The landscape is stark and remote. Find a spot where you can watch the horizon without obstruction.
18:15
Watch the sun sink toward the W. The golden light fades quickly at this altitude, leaving the salt flats in cool, blue shadow.
Local tip
The road is long but well-paved. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for high altitude and remote driving. No food or drink shops are available at the site; bring water and snacks with you.
Check before you go
- Altitude sickness is a real risk above 4500m. Ascend slowly and stay hydrated.
- There are no facilities at Salar de Tara. Bring all necessary food, water, and warm clothing.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to San Pedro de Atacama (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).