Atacama with Kids: Why Our Desert Adventure Was One of Our Best Family Trips Yet
We just came back from the desert, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best family trips we’ve ever taken.
When you think of family travel, Chile’s Atacama Desert probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. At least, it wasn’t for us. I expected it to be beautiful, of course, but I wasn’t expecting it to be so wildly fun for the kids and so restorative for us as parents.
Now, after a week of running barefoot down sand dunes, spotting flamingos at sunset, soaking in thermal springs, biking through vast highland valleys, and riding horses through landscapes that feel like another planet… I’m convinced: Atacama is one of the most inspiring, enriching, and surprisingly family-friendly places we’ve ever been.
Here’s what made it unforgettable.
Day 1: Arrival and Deep Sleep
We landed in San Pedro de Atacama on a Friday evening, just in time for a relaxing dinner and a good night’s sleep at Explora’s lodge, a peaceful, welcoming base that feels both remote and deeply comfortable.
Day 2: Running Barefoot into the Desert
Our first full day started with a morning exploration to Valle de la Muerte, running barefoot down the sand dunes. The kids were ecstatic, laughing, sliding, falling, and running again. Our guide, Palu, was patient and warm, and made the entire experience feel playful and safe.
That afternoon, after a long soak in the jacuzzi and a good lunch, we explored Vallecito, tucked within the Cordillera de la Sal. A recent rainstorm and strong winds meant it was a quick photo stop rather than a long hike — but even so, the landscape was surreal and beautiful.
Day 3: Thermal Pools and Flamingos
Sunday morning was chilly, but the walk down to Puritama Hot Springs was magical. We spotted vizcachas at the start and ended the short hike with a soak in warm thermal pools. Our guide, Dayane, kept the pace perfect for little legs and made the cold part of the fun.
In the afternoon, it was back to the jacuzzi (a theme of the trip!) before heading out to Laguna Chaxa, where flamingos waded through pastel reflections. The kids loved the birds; we loved the silence and scale of the salt flats. Our guide, Javi Álvarez, shared stories that brought the landscape to life.
Day 4: E-Bike Adventures and Gentle Horseback Rides
We started early with a 36 km e-bike ride through Vilama, just me this time, while my wife and the kids spent a relaxed morning exploring town. The route was long and spectacular, taking me through ever-changing terrain. With the help of the e-bike and our guide Javi’s insights, it was challenging in all the right ways.
In the afternoon, we all met back at the lodge, and the kids went horseback riding near the property, a gentle loop that turned out to be one of their favorite activities. Simple, quiet, and so memorable.
Day 5: Llamas, Quartz, and Culture
Our morning was spent at Puri Beter, a cultural exploration unlike anything else. We met llamas, donkeys, chickens, and sheep; walked through a Chañaral forest; spotted quartz all around; and learned about Atacameño ceremonial sites and stargazing traditions. Our guide, Juan Carmelo, was incredible, a true storyteller who brought every detail to life. The kids had a blast, and we left feeling inspired and connected.
That afternoon we returned to Valle de la Muerte, this time exploring the second dune, even steeper than the first. Our guide, Juliana from Colombia, was fantastic, and the final walk through the dunes felt both meditative and surreal.
The food was another highlight. There were always kid-friendly options delicious pizzas, burgers, and plenty of flexibility from the kitchen team to adapt to preferences. And let’s be honest… we enjoyed those “kid meals” too. The restaurant staff was wonderfully warm and attentive, always accommodating with patience and genuine care.
A special shout-out to Marisol, who was helping out during our stay, and to the entire team, from guides to housekeeping to the restaurant, for creating such a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
One little detail that made a huge difference: solid tempera paint. Explora had it on hand, along with paper and materials for crafts, like building paper rockets. For families with small children, that kind of foresight is priceless.
For us as parents, the trip was also a chance to explore and to fully recharge. We came back feeling inspired, relaxed, and full of memories, the kind that stay with you long after the trip ends.
My Final Thoughts: This Was Trip a That Worked for All of Us
Traveling with kids always adds a layer of unpredictability, but in this case, everything flowed with surprising ease. The explorations were just right: short enough to be doable with young kids, yet full of wonder and incredible views that kept us all engaged. Even with the high-altitude explorations closed during our stay, five nights didn’t feel like enough. We could’ve easily stayed longer.
Story by Francisco Escobar, Explora’s Growth Marketing Director
