Northern Chile Vacation (Flight + Hotel)

With scenery that transforms from Pacific Coast to salt-cratered desert, Northern Chile is a land of extraordinary panoramas. See snow-capped mountains, azure lakes and ancient wind-worn salt sculptures amid the desert. Go surfing or paragliding along the breathtaking Pacific Coast or experience the energy of local festivities that combine Christian and Inca traditions.

A great place to start your exploration of Northern Chile is in the coastal town of Iquique. Shouldering the Bolivian and Peruvian borders, Iquique is the gateway to adventure. Go surfing or stroll along the sandy strip of Playa Cavancha. Try sandboarding down the rolling dunes or glide gracefully over the snaking coastline with a paragliding tour.

Make your way to the stunning desert town of San Pedro de Atacama to see the remarkable landscape of Moon Valley. These wind-whipped dunes are dotted with fascinating geological formations, such as Las Tres Marias. Watch the sunset from this eerie moonscape to see the surrounding mountains turn purple and orange in the fading light.

Check out the strange plumes erupting from the Geyser del Tatio and warm yourself in the nearby geothermal springs.

Spot three different species of flamingos at Los Flamencos National Reserve or experience the dramatic beauty and vibrant wildlife of Lauca National Park.

A visit to Northern Chile wouldn’t be complete without exploring the region’s salt lakes and lagoons. From San Pedro de Atacama, you can delve into the breathtaking Andean basin surrounded by mountain peaks and volcanoes and explore the Atacama Salt Flats. The town’s church, museum and ancient Quitor monument are also popular with visitors.

Check out the romantic seaside town of La Serena or head to La Tirana for the lively Festival de la Virgen del Carmen in July.

Reach Northern Chile via El Loa Airport outside of Calama or the gateway town of Iquique. The best time to visit the region is between November and March; however, the coastal towns may become crowded in December and January.

For coastal adventures, arid landscapes and archaeological wonders, Northern Chile is a destination to experience nature’s remarkable diversity.

*Savings based on all vacation package bookings with Flight + Hotel on Expedia.com from January through December 2020, as compared to price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages. For Free Flight or 100% Off Flight deals, package savings is greater than or equal to the current cost of one component, when both are priced separately.