1. Moon Valley, or Valle de la Luna, is a unique and otherworldly landscape located in the Atacama Desert near San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. It is one of the most popular attractions in the area due to its stunning natural beauty and resemblance to the surface of the moon.
The valley gets its moon-like appearance from the erosion caused by wind and water over millions of years. The terrain is characterized by towering sand dunes, jagged rock formations, and barren salt flats. The colors of the valley range from pale whites and pinks to deep browns and purples, giving it an ethereal and surreal atmosphere.
In addition to its mesmerizing landscapes, Moon Valley also offers several interesting geological formations. The Tres Marias are three large rock formations that resemble the statues of three women. The Great Dune is a massive sand dune that visitors can climb for panoramic views of the valley. There are also various caves and caverns that can be explored, such as the Salt Caves and the Amphitheater.
2. Moon Valley is open to visitors during the day. The exact working hours may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It is recommended to visit either early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the intense heat of the desert. It is advisable to check the local tourist information or contact a tour agency in San Pedro de Atacama for the most up-to-date information on working hours and accessibility.
Phone: Unfortunately, there is no specific phone available for Moon Valley. However, you can contact the San Pedro de Atacama Tourism Office at +56 55 555 1212 for general information or inquiries about visiting Moon Valley.
3. Ticket Info and Transportation:
To visit Moon Valley, you can choose to go on a guided tour or visit independently. Guided tours are a popular option as they provide transportation, guided commentary, and often include visits to other nearby attractions.
If you choose to visit independently, you can take a taxi or rent a car from San Pedro de Atacama to Moon Valley. The distance between the town and the valley is around 19 kilometers (12 miles), and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
For entrance fees, there is a national park fee that needs to be paid. As of 2021, the fee is 3,000 Chilean pesos (approximately $4 USD) for foreigners and 2,000 Chilean pesos for Chilean nationals. The fee can be paid at the entrance to the park.
It is important to note that due to the fragile nature of the environment, there are restrictions on climbing or walking on certain formations. Visitors are advised to follow the designated paths and guidelines to help preserve the beauty of Moon Valley for future generations.
