Remember when we learned about the Atacama desert in school? The desert in South America, which is the driest place in the world, and almost has no life? Well, you’d be happy to learn that it’s easy to reach Atacama desert. If you want to visit it, all you need to do is book a flight from Santiago to Kalami, a small town in the Andes.
The largest copper mines in the world are located here, and Chileans say they have as much importance to the market as Saudi Arabia for the oil market.
For those who feel adventurous and want to wander around, you can go about 90 km southwest to the oldest villages in South America, founded in the 15th century by San Pedro de Atacama.
You can enjoy the village square, overlooking the vast Andes peaks, where dozens of young people sing and play guitars with campfires and warm tea made from aromatic coca leaves. On the dusty streets, you can find llama meat and fresh chewy leaves.
Be careful though. The narrow streets filled with holes and sandy gravels, where the wheels of cars can get stuck, are not for everyone. Be prepared for clouds of sand and dust in this oasis in the heart of Atacama.