“MONJES DE LA PACANA & TARA SALT FLAT” TOUR

Impressive geological formations that appear as enormous stone pillars, resemble giant monks who look after the place. Monks of the Pacana are a group of column-like rock structures, preserved from geological times as a testimony of volcanic events that resemble the silhouettes of giant monks.

These monks watch over the tranquility of the hot water salt flat where they walk and feed vicuñas, flamingos and other animals characteristic of the Altiplano. The Salar de Tara is recognized as one of the most beautiful salt flats in the area and has landscapes rich in flora and fauna.

Itinerary

• Departure from San Pedro de Atacama, bordering the Licancabur Volcano and the Zapalieri River, climbing the Andes Mountains. Then, heading east, the trip continues along the International Highway to the Jama Pass.
• Our first stop will be at the Bofedal de Quepiaco, where we will observe typical fauna composed mainly of flamingos and vicuñas.
• We will arrive at the Pacana Monks, a basin where it is possible to appreciate the remains of volcanic sediment eroded by environmental factors, water and wind, a factor that causes the rocks to take even human forms, constituting the main attraction of the place.
• Continuing towards the east we will find the Salar de Tara, where we will take a short walk through its trails, and admire some of the most recognized natural beauties within the tourist sectors that surround San Pedro de Atacama. The tranquility of the place also constitutes, along with the cathedrals, the flora and fauna, a precious attraction for the visitor.
• Return to the Hotel.

Distance to travel: 300 km / 186 miles

High altitude excursion (+ 5,000 mts). Not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems and children under 5 years old.

Includes

• Guide service only in Spanish and English.
• Entrances to Monjes Pacana and Salar de Tara
• Box lunch.

Does not include

• Guide professional in French, German and Italian. If you want a guide in these languages, it is done by request and an extra charge must be paid.