The Valley of the Moon is quite close to San Pedro, and is a beautiful evening excursion. The landscape is made up of mountains, valleys, sand dunes and rock formations, and the colours change from golds to reds as the sun sets. You can walk up the sand dunes to enjoy the best views.

The Atacama Salt Lake is formed by water flowing down from the mountains evaporating, leaving salt crystals on the desert floor. The giant chunks of salt extend into the distance, creating a beautiful landscape as the earth and sky merge. The best time to visit is sunset, with beautiful colours, and flamingoes silhouetted against the sky.

The El Tatio Geysers are the largest geyser field in the southern hemisphere, and at 4,300 metres above sea level, some of the highest in the world. The geysers are best seen in the early morning light, when the water and steam jets create an incredible sight. However, this involves a very early start at 4am from San Pedro, as the geysers are a 90 minutes bumpy drive away. There are also vicuñas in the area.

There are several lakes in the desert, including the twin lakes of Miscanti and Miñeques, with beautiful blue waters, and the green Laguna Lejia. Flamingoes are common at the lakes in the altiplano.