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Chile Southern
Skies Itinerary
Page 2 |
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Day 4
Wed, June
1 B/L/D
El Tatio Geysers – Puritama Hot Springs |
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Early this morning
we’ll depart for El Tatio, considered the highest geyser field in
the world at 4,125 m (13,600 feet) above sea level. Huge plumes of
steam spout from the ground tens of meters into the air. Geothermal
ponds, encrusted with richly colored mineral deposits, eerily
resemble a painter’s palette, while in the background, soaring snowy
peaks loom against a metallic-blue sky. It is a sublime spectacle.
Later we’ll travel back toward San Pedro, stopping for a
late-morning dip at Puritama thermal baths. These volcanic hot
springs are beautifully maintained and set in a deep canyon with
surprisingly lush foliage. We’ll return to San Pedro in time for
lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. Join us again this evening for
a wonderful night of stargazing. |
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Day 5
Thu,
June 2
B/L/D
Toconao – Salt Flats – Los Flamencos National Reserve |
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After a morning at leisure we’ll travel to the immense Atacama
Salt Flat, covering an area of 3,150 sq km (1200 sq miles). The air is
extraordinarily dry, and the visibility nothing less than perfect.
Beneath the flat lies a lake, blanketed by a thick rugged salt crust
smudged with desert dust. It contains the world's largest reserves of
lithium. The salt crust is speckled with small ponds favored by such
waterfowl as flamingos, Andean gulls, goose, swall, and coots. The
largest and most accessible of these ponds is Chaxa, within the Los
Flamencos National Reserve. This breeding ground for Chilean and Andean
flamingos offers terrific photo opportunities. Later, we’ll visit the
village of Toconao, an oasis where many varieties of fruits are grown.
San Lucas Church and Bell Tower, a Chilean Cultural Monument, is located
on the main plaza. After dinner we’ll enjoy another night of stargazing
at the hotel. |
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Day 6
Fri, June 3 Breakfast
Day at Leisure in San Pedro de Atacama |
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Today is completely free for rest, relaxation,
and exploring San Pedro on your own. Tonight, join us for our last
evening of southern skygazing. |
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Day
7
Sat, June 4 Breakfast
Santiago – Home |
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After breakfast and check-out we’ll drive back to Calama for our
flight to Santiago, Chilé’s beautiful capital city. With its mild
Southern California–like climate and the stunning Andes Mountains to the
east, Santiago offers wonderful vistas at every turn. Starting at the
city center, we’ll take a walking tour of the Main Square, Cathedral,
and Government Palace, ending with a magnificent city view from atop San
Cristobal hill. After an early dinner at Santiago’s Central Market,
we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight home. |
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Back to Top |
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Copyright 2004 TravelQuest
International. All rights
reserved. 800-830-1998
Revised: October 25, 2005.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective companies or trademark holders. |
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