Atacama Desert

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At a Glance

Built on an old cattle corral on the edge of the town of San Pedro de Atacama, Tierra Atacama began as one man’s passion project during his golden years: After a near-death experience rock climbing in the Atacama Desert, avid adventurer (and former Olympic skier) Miguel Purcell decided to take his experience working at his father’s ski resort and open a lodge of his own. He built this cozy hideout within an oasis in Chile’s northern desert—the world’s driest—infusing its architecture and design with the spirit of the local Indigenous culture. The 32 guest rooms feature handwoven blankets, cowhide rugs and llama figures chiseled into volcanic rocks. And an overarching adventure-meets-spa philosophy encourages guests to experience the Chilean high plains to the maximum with its all-inclusive program, before returning to the property for relaxation at the hotel’s comprehensive Uma Spa. The spa takes advantage of the magnetism of the desert, offering a relaxing atmosphere and sweeping views, as well as natural, locally sourced ingredients and essential oils in their products.

The Standout: The expansive views (the hotel was strategically built around the most iconic volcano in the Atacama Desert, the Licancabur volcano, which is visible from all areas of the property)

Don’t Miss: Guatín-Gatchi, a hike along the Guatín River through canyons covered with giant cacti

Indagare Loves

• Stargazing excursions led by an astronomer who teaches the ancient peoples’ way of observing the black spaces between the stars
• Community development: the hotel supports a local school from which students have been hired and receive mentorship opportunities or jobs upon graduating
• Tierra Atacama is South America’s first hotel to produce its own solar energy (a hybrid system provides 100 percent of daytime power)

Tierra Atacama Review

Built on an old cattle corral on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama, Tierra Atacama was founded by the Purcell family, who also own Tierra Patagonia and the famous Ski Portillo just outside of Santiago. The hotel has an “adventure-spa” philosophy and encourages guests to experience the outdoors to the maximum, before returning to the property for relaxation at the end of the day.

Each of the 32 rooms overlook a beautiful volcanic mountain range and have private outdoor showers. For families, there is a two-story, three-bedroom suite. The bar and dining area is always bustling with activity in the afternoon, when guests return from their activities to enjoy a Pisco Sour. In addition, the pool and spa are a perfect way to end long days of adventure. Make sure not to miss stargazing outings led by experts at the observatory; the sky above Atacama is known as one of the world’s best places for viewing constellations.

Who Should Stay

Nature lovers seeking both serenity and adventure.

Author

• Indagare