From the largest salt desert in the world, the Salar of Uyuni, Bolivia, to its little brother of Atacama, a 4WD expedition following the “Road of the Jewels”, judiciously named for its array of beautiful lagunas, takes us finally to the Oasis of San Pedro de Atacama in Chile.
Please note that this inhospitable region only offers the traveler the most rustic living conditions: dust, rarified water and cool nights... but remember, the best things have to be earned!

9 a.m. departure from the Hotel with our 4WD for the Salar de Uyuni (el. 3650 m.a.s.l.), the world’s largest salt desert. On the way, we visit the salt exploitation of Colchani and the Salt Hotels (closed since November 2001). We then stop in the heart of the Salar on the Island of Incahuasi (of volcanic origin, covered with stromatolites and giant cacti). In the afternoon, we head South towards the village of San Juan.
Cold lunch. All included. Lodging with local host (basic comfort).

After leaving San Juan, we cross the Salar de Chiguana. Then the dirt road climbs from 3600 m to about 4200 m of altitude. We pass at the foot of volcanoes Tomasamil (el. 5900 m.a.s.l.) and Ollague (still active), on the Chilean border. On the way down to the South, we follow the “Road of the jewels”: lagunas Cañapa, Hedionda, Ch’arkota, Honda, Ramaditas, sanctuary to three varieties of Flamingoes. The track follows on through the beautiful scenery of the Siloli Desert before arriving, in the afternoon, at Laguna Colorada.
Cold lunch. All included. Night in shelter (basic comfort).

Departure at 6 a.m. for an excursion to the geysers Sol de Mañana (el. 4850 m.a.s.l.) a volcanic crater from which escape sulfuric fumes and heavy water. We then skirt Laguna Salada before crossing the Dali Desert (named after the scenery reminiscent of one of his paintings). We reach Laguna Verde, at the foot of volcano Licancabur (el. 5960 m.a.s.l.) before noon, to assist at its possible color change.
We then cross the Bolivian border in Hito Cajon. After an hour descent and we reach San Pedro de Atacama (Chilean border).
Cold lunch (included). Dinner open. Hotel **.