KE Adventure

Atacama Desert and Licancabur Volcano Trek

Adventure trekking in northern Chile and Bolivia
From the desert to the altiplano
The flamingoes of Laguna Blanca
Unforgettable ascent of Licancabur

At the northern tip of Chile, the Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on earth, with a harsh and beautiful landscape characterised by fantastically coloured lagoons, weird geological formations and volcanic peaks, including the mysterious Licancabur (5916m). High on the altiplano, rivers flow down into the desert, supporting diverse wildlife and nurturing human habitation that dates back thousands of years. From the pretty oasis village of San Pedro, we explore the 'Valley of the Moon' and then complete a surprising trek, through picturesque river gorges, cactus gardens and isolated Indian shepherd communities. This culminates in the ascent of Cerro Soqete (5200m) above the spectacular Tatio geyser field. Well acclimatised, we cross the Bolivian border, to make the demanding but straightforward ascent of the perfect volcanic cone of Licancabur, whose summit crater holds one of the world's highest lakes and an Inca ceremonial site. Altogether a simply amazing adventure travel experience!

Trip Guide

This trip offers a truly unique trekking experience in the Atacama Desert. Specially researched and making use of vehicle support throughout, you travel on foot from the oasis town of San Pedro, on the edge of the Salt Flats, to the Altiplano close to the Bolivian Border. After a successful first trip in 2003, which saw 8 KE clients reach the summit of Licancabur, we further developed the itinerary to include an additional day of high altitude walking and a visit to the famous Tatio Geysers.