Things to do on a San Pedro de Atacama to Santiago Roadtrip

Things to do on a San Pedro de Atacama to Santiago Road Trip

Explore Chile’s most dramatic landscapes for just $1/day. A relocation deal with Imoova turns one of Chile’s most iconic journeys into an affordable, bucket-list road trip. Travelling from San Pedro de Atacama to Santiago, you’ll go from otherworldly desert terrain to lush wine valleys and vibrant city life. This route typically takes 3–5 days, but you’ll want extra time to soak it all in.

San Pedro de Atacama & Surrounds

Before hitting the road, explore the surreal landscapes that make this region famous:

• Valle de la Luna – Mars-like rock formations and unforgettable sunsets

• El Tatio Geysers – Sunrise steam fields at high altitude

• Laguna Cejar – Float effortlessly in salt-rich waters

Antofagasta

Your first major coastal stop, Antofagasta, offers a refreshing contrast to the desert:

• La Portada – A striking rock arch rising from the ocean

• Beachfront drives along the Pacific

Bahía Inglesa & Caldera

Known for some of Chile’s best beaches:

• Crystal-clear waters and white sand

• Fresh seafood and relaxed coastal vibes

Valle del Elqui

A hidden gem and one of the highlights of the trip:

• Valle del Elqui - Famous for stargazing and pisco production

• Visit small villages like Pisco Elqui

• Some of the clearest night skies in the world

La Serena to Casablanca Valley

Heading south, the landscape softens:

• La Serena - home to colonial charm and beaches

• Casablanca Valley - one of Chile’s top wine regions (perfect for a relaxed tasting stop)

Arriving in Santiago

Finish your journey in Santiago:

• Explore neighbourhoods like Bellavista

• Ride up Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views

• Celebrate your road trip with incredible Chilean food and wine

How to do it on a budget

With Imoova, you can drive a campervan for as little as $1/day by relocating for rental companies instead of paying for a one way rental. You'll also save on accommodation by sleeping in the vehicle. You can turn a necessary vehicle relocation into an unforgettable adventure, shortening your bucket list. You can browse Imoova's Chile roadtrips here.