Calama to Puerto Montt: A 6-day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Valle de la Luna
    30 minutes (16 miles) from Calama

    Explore the stunning lunar landscape of the Valle de la Luna, formed by millions of years of erosion. Make sure to stick around for sunset, when the rocks change colour and the landscape becomes even more magical.

  2. Day 2: San Pedro de Atacama
    1 hour (37 miles) from Valle de la Luna

    Discover the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. You can visit the San Pedro Church and the Museo Gustavo Le Paige, or take an excursion to the nearby moon and Mars valleys.

  3. Day 3: Salar de Atacama
    1 hour 20 minutes (53 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama

    Witness the otherworldly beauty of the Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile. Visit Los Flamencos National Reserve, home to three species of flamingos and other unique wildlife.

  4. Day 4: Pucon
    5 hours (224 miles) from Salar de Atacama

    Explore the adventure capital of Chile, nestled between the Villarrica Volcano and Lake Villarrica. Take a dip in the natural hot springs, hike the Villarrica National Park, or go kayaking on the lake.

  5. Day 5: Frutillar
    2 hours 30 minutes (107 miles) from Pucon

    Stroll along the picturesque town of Frutillar, located on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. Admire the colourful German-style architecture, visit the Museo Colonial Aleman, and indulge in some traditional kuchen pastries.

  6. Day 6: Osorno Volcano
    1 hour (36 miles) from Frutillar

    Hike to the summit of the Osorno Volcano, an active Andean stratovolcano. You can also take the chairlift for panoramic views of the region, or visit the nearby Petrohue Falls.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Valle de la Luna (3 hours, Free)
  • San Pedro de Atacama (4 hours, Free)
  • Salar de Atacama (6 hours, $30 entrance fee)
  • Pucon (3 days, varies depending on activities)
  • Frutillar (4 hours, Free)
  • Osorno Volcano (7 hours, $15 chairlift ticket)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $45+

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider visiting the Chiloe Island and its unique architecture, or head to Puerto Varas for some stunning lakeside views. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip Frutillar and head straight to Osorno Volcano for a day trip from Puerto Varas.

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