Walk the salt-carved ridges of the Cordillera de la Sal at sunset, visit ancient petroglyph panels at Yerbas Buenas, and watch the Atacama’s colors shift from rust to violet at the Licarantay viewpoint.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A late-afternoon wind hits the salt-crusted ridges of the Cordillera de la Sal and the valley exhales color: rust, ochre, pale green and a powdery white that looks almost lunar. From San Pedro de Atacama you drive west across stark desert to Yerbas Buenas, where weathered rock panels hold petroglyphs — llamas, birds and caravan scenes that mark ancient Andean trade routes — then onward through the mineral-striped arches of Rainbow Valley.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on uneven ground and low-altitude hiking ability at ~2,400–2,600 m.
Wildlife
History
Yerbas Buenas and nearby trails were part of pre-Hispanic caravan routes connecting the Bolivian Altiplano and Argentine puna to the Pacific; petroglyphs mark animal species and travel narratives.
Conservation
The area is within managed reserve land where visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths to protect fragile salt crusts, fossil beds and petroglyph panels.
Reserve your spot on the Vale de La Luna today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time it for sunset
Plan the tour to finish at the Licarantay viewpoint — late afternoon light reveals colors and shadows you won’t see at midday.
Bring plenty of water
Even on short walks the high desert is dehydrating; carry at least 1–2 liters per person.
Wear closed, grippy shoes
Trails are rocky and uneven; sturdy shoes reduce the risk of sprained ankles and slipping on loose sand.
Layer for temperature swings
Temperatures often drop quickly after sunset; bring a warm jacket even if the afternoon is hot.
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Hydration is critical in the arid Atacama climate.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
High solar radiation and reflective salt surfaces increase sun exposure.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Rocky, uneven terrain requires supportive, grippy footwear.
Warm jacket
Evening temperatures fall quickly after sunset in the high desert.
fall