"ATACAMA" Bike Tour

"ATACAMA" Bike Tour

Catarpe Valley and the Devil’s Throat: A Journey Through the Heart of the Atacama Desert

Just a short distance from San Pedro de Atacama, Catarpe Valley offers a remarkable introduction to the landscapes, history, and silence of the Atacama Desert. Surrounded by golden mountains, rugged cliffs, and vast open skies, this ancient valley reveals a quieter and more intimate side of one of the driest places on Earth.

The valley’s dirt trails lead through dramatic desert scenery shaped by wind, water, and time. Along the way, visitors can admire striking rock formations, changing colors, and panoramic views that make Catarpe an unforgettable destination for walking, cycling, or simply connecting with the landscape.

At the heart of the experience lies the Devil’s Throat, also known as Chulacao Canyon. This impressive natural formation was carved over thousands of years by the force of water, creating narrow passages enclosed by towering rock walls. As you move through the canyon, the surrounding silence and sculpted stone reveal the powerful geological forces that shaped the Atacama.

The journey to the Devil’s Throat is as captivating as the destination itself. Every turn offers a new perspective of the valley, from soft desert slopes to dramatic cliffs and unexpected textures in the rock. Depending on the time of day, the landscape changes from cool, delicate tones in the morning to warm golden and reddish hues in the afternoon.

Catarpe Valley and the Devil’s Throat are ideal for travelers seeking a memorable experience close to San Pedro de Atacama—one that combines nature, adventure, and a deeper appreciation of the desert’s unique character.

Here, the Atacama is not only a place to see. It is a place to feel: in the silence of the canyon, in the wind across the valley, and in the timeless landscape that surrounds you.

Itinerary:

Pedaling Through Catarpe Valley to the Devil’s Throat

• Discover the Atacama Desert from a new perspective on a scenic bike ride through the spectacular Catarpe Valley. Just outside San Pedro de Atacama, this experience combines outdoor adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a closer connection with the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

• Following dirt paths and quiet desert trails, you will make your way toward the impressive Devil’s Throat, also known as Chulacao Canyon. Over thousands of years, water and erosion have carved the surrounding rock, creating narrow passages and dramatic walls that reveal the powerful geological history of the Atacama.

A journey through the desert

• The route includes mostly flat terrain and gentle downhill sections, making it an enjoyable option for travelers who want to explore actively without an intense physical challenge. Along the way, your guide will lead the group at a relaxed pace, organize scenic stops, and share stories about the formation of Catarpe Valley and its importance to the local area.

• Here, the ride is not about speed. It is about enjoying the open landscape, feeling the desert breeze, and discovering every change in color, texture, and light.

Morning or afternoon: choose your atmosphere

• The tour is available in the morning or afternoon, and each departure offers a different experience.

• Morning rides benefit from cooler temperatures and soft light, ideal for appreciating the details of the canyon walls and desert terrain. In the afternoon, the landscape transforms with golden and reddish tones, creating a peaceful atmosphere for a more reflective ride.

An accessible desert adventure

• Located at a similar altitude to San Pedro de Atacama—approximately 2,500 meters above sea level—the Catarpe Valley bike tour is especially suitable from the second day of your trip, once your body has begun adapting to the altitude.

• It is an excellent way to explore the surroundings while combining gentle exercise, nature, and adventure.

Safety and expert guidance

• The experience is accompanied by experienced, certified guides and includes bicycles, helmets, and a safety briefing before departure. The route is designed to be comfortable, safe, and enjoyable for participants with a moderate level of fitness.

This tour is ideal for travelers who:

• Enjoy light to moderate outdoor activities
• Want to explore the Atacama by bike
• Are looking for spectacular landscapes close to San Pedro
• Prefer an active experience without extreme physical demands
• Wish to discover the desert at a relaxed and authentic pace

Cycling to the Devil’s Throat is more than a bike ride: it is an invitation to experience the Atacama with all your senses—surrounded by silence, open skies, dramatic rock formations, and the unforgettable rhythm of the desert.

Tour Details:

Minimum number of people: 3

Departure: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Altitude: Up to 2,500m.

Includes: Transportation, Certified guide, bicycle, helmet, and snacks.

Price of the Catarpe Valley entrance fee: 5,000 CLP per person.

Important Note: The entrance fee to Catarpe Valley must be paid in local cash (Chilean pesos) at the park upon arrival.

Recommended for: from the second day onwards.

Does not include

• Tips and gratuities.
• Other services not described in the program.
• Professional guide in German, French, Italian and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.