Why is San Pedro de Atacama one of Brazilians' favorite destinations?

In recent years, it is increasingly common to walk the streets of San Pedro de Atacama and hear conversations in Portuguese. Coincidence? Not at all. The driest desert in the world has become one of the most desired international destinations for Brazilians visiting Chile. The mix of breathtaking landscapes, adventure, tranquility, and a strong connection with nature has won over travelers from all over Brazil, from São Paulo to Recife.

But what does this small town in northern Chile have that makes it so irresistible to the Brazilian public? Below, we explore the reasons that explain this growing trend and why San Pedro de Atacama is much more than just a tourist destination.

Landscape that seems from another planet and invites to disconnect

San Pedro de Atacama offers a variety of landscapes so unique that they seem taken from another planet. For the Brazilian tourist, accustomed to tropical jungles, beaches, and abundant vegetation, the aridity of the desert becomes an absolutely novel visual spectacle. Here, the silence and immensity of the environment invite contemplation, pause, and wonder.

Among the most striking places are the Valle de la Luna and the Valley of Death, with rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind that turn red and orange at sunset. There are also the high-altitude lagoons Miscanti and Miñiques, located at over 4,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by volcanoes and with deep blue waters that contrast with the clear sky of the highlands. And of course, the Tatio geysers, a unique natural phenomenon experienced at dawn, when the earth exhales steam from its depths in a spectacle that seems to come from another world.

“These places are not only photogenic, but they awaken a deep emotional connection with nature”

Many travelers describe their time in Atacama as an introspective experience that changes the way they see the world.

A destination where Portuguese opens doors and generates trust

San Pedro de Atacama has quickly adapted to Brazilian tourism. The language barrier, which often complicates the experience abroad, practically disappears here. Today it is easy to find tour agencies that offer assistance in Portuguese, bilingual guides who know Brazilian culture, and signage adapted to facilitate the experience for those visiting from Brazil.

“The Brazilian tourist feels comfortable, understood, and well accompanied, making their stay much more relaxed and enjoyable”

Adventure and movement for those seeking active experiences

The profile of the Brazilian traveler who visits San Pedro is usually active, curious, and eager to accumulate memorable experiences. And precisely, Atacama adapts perfectly to that style of travel. Each day can offer a different adventure, regardless of physical level or previous experience.

Among the most popular activities are trekking along ancient trails, such as the one that leads to the Guatín canyon, or the ascent of volcanoes like Láscar or Toco. Also noteworthy are sandboarding on the dunes of the Valley of Death, floating in the saltwater Laguna Cejar, or biking tours through scenic routes that cross salt flats and Atacameño villages.

The possibility of combining nature, physical activity, and unique landscapes makes San Pedro a perfect destination for those traveling in search of more than just rest.

The most starry sky in the world as the star of the night

The experience of looking at the sky in Atacama is difficult to describe in words. For many Brazilians, accustomed to urban life, seeing the Milky Way with the naked eye is completely new. Here, the night sky presents itself as a constant natural spectacle, unparalleled on the planet.

The conditions are ideal: over 300 clear nights a year, no light pollution, dry climate, and high altitude. All this allows for impressive visibility of stars, planets, and constellations.

The guided astronomical tours in Portuguese offer the opportunity to understand what is being seen, combining scientific explanations with ancestral stories. It is a magical activity that closes the day with a sense of wonder that remains etched in memory.

If you are interested in learning more about San Pedro de Atacama in astronomical matters, we recommend reading this article we prepared for you: Why is San Pedro de Atacama the best destination for stargazing?

Services, comfort, and everything you need to enjoy worry-free

Although San Pedro de Atacama is located in an extreme natural environment, the town has everything necessary for a comfortable, safe, and pleasant stay. The accommodation offer is varied and caters to different budgets, from simple and cozy hostels to boutique hotels with spas, terraces, and pools.

In the town center, it is easy to walk, find good restaurants with vegetarian or gluten-free options, and buy souvenirs at local craft fairs. Everything is within a short distance, making getting around San Pedro simple even without a vehicle.

In addition, excursions are well organized, tours depart on time, and guides are usually passionate people about the place, with a service vocation. This welcoming atmosphere allows the traveler to enjoy the destination without having to worry about logistical details. Even if it is your first time in Chile, you will feel supported from the very beginning.

Atacama, a destination that calls and enchants

Are you planning your trip from Brazil? Get ready to fall in love with the Chilean desert. At Outdoor Index we accompany you to live the experience of San Pedro de Atacama with guided tours and excursions designed for you to connect with nature, explore unique landscapes, and live unforgettable adventures.

We offer small group departures, personalized attention, and expert guides who speak Portuguese, so you can enjoy every corner of the desert without worrying about the language. Whether you want to see the sunrise among geysers, walk through valleys, relax in saltwater, or discover the most impressive starry skies in the world. At Outdoor Index, we have an experience for you: Discover San Pedro de Atacama with Outdoor Index