Martinis & Miles

As soon as I saw my first picture of the Atacama Desert I knew I wanted to go there.  Located in Chile, South America, it is one of the driest places on Earth.  It has salt lagoons, wetlands, snow capped mountains, flamingos, geysers, and lunar landscapes.

For this amazing trip I was really excited to stay at the Tierra Atacama which was named by National Geographic one of the Unique Lodges of the World.  Tierra Hotels is a family owned company known for integrating stunning landscapes with luxury lodges, spa and adventure.  There are three boutique hotels, and each are hallmarks of eco-sustainability and luxury.

The price of the hotel included all meals, certain alcoholic beverages, the room of course, transportation to and from the airport, all tours, and use of the steam rooms and spa facilities. Just as an FYI, I paid full price, and everything in this article is completely honest and my own opinion.

Tierra Atacama will pick you up at the nearest airport which is approximately an hour away, located at Calama.  *NOTE: San Pedro de Atacama is an 8 hour drive and not the correct airport.  I accidentally booked this at first and had to change my flight.  ?

A Tierra Atacama staff member was waiting for me when I landed.  He helped with luggage, gave me ice cold water, snacks and a welcome bag. I was super impressed.

As I arrived, they pointed out all the features that make this resort sustainable, and environmentally friendly.  It makes its own solar energy, has a vineyard, and grows food in the garden, just to name a few.   After check in, I picked our activities for the stay.  All the tours had left for the day, however Tierra Atacama called a tour guide to take me on a private tour wherever I wanted to go so I wouldn’t miss anything.  The tour guide even brought cocktails and appetizers to enjoy on the trip.

After returning from a tour of the salt lagoon, I decided to relax in the hot tub and watch the sunset before dinner (PSA it gets cold at night in the desert).  A staff member brought everyone drinks and made rounds with appetizers and canapés. It was heavenly.

At Tierra Atacama, the rooms are actually a series of bungalows.  Each bungalow has a full porch with lounging area to view the desert and sunset. Inside there is a sleeping area, living room, separate desk/writing area, and bathroom.  There is a great spa on property, and they have spa products in the bathroom, including local salt perfect for body scrubs.

There is also a gorgeous indoor pool with his and hers steam rooms and locker facilities.  They have a yoga classes on site as well, and I am very sad that I missed taking advantage of them.  I cant forget the stunning outdoor infinity situated to best view the sunset and the mountains rising from the salt covered landscape.

One of my favorite things other than the scenery was the food.  Each night was an imaginative three course meal, paired with wine if you like.  They have snacks available throughout the day, and I am someone who is pretty much always hungry.  I commented one late afternoon that I was hungry and the chef immediately whipped up a gourmet fruit and cheese plate along with several other choices. Every moment the staff  continually surpassed expectations.

If you are looking for a luxury experience unlike anything then come stay at the Tierra Atacama. Ready to book? Click here.

Want to know more? Check out these posts.

Guide to Visiting the Best of the Atacama Desert

Complete Guide to Antelope Canyon AZ

Things to Know Before You Visit White Pocket, Vermillion Cliffs, Arizona