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

In recent years, it has become 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 transformed into 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 captivated 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? Next, we explore the reasons that explain this growing trend and why San Pedro de Atacama is much more than just a tourist destination.

Landscapes that look like another planet and invite you to disconnect

San Pedro de Atacama offers a variety of landscapes so unique that they seem to be 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 vastness of the surroundings invite contemplation, pause, and wonder.

Among the most striking places are the Valley of the Moon and the Valley of Death, with rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind that are tinted red and orange at sunset. There are also the Miscanti and Miñiques high-altitude lagoons, located over 4,000 meters high, surrounded by volcanoes and with deep blue waters that contrast with the clear sky of the altiplano. 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 also 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 adeptly 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, which makes their stay much more relaxed and enjoyable”

Adventure and movement for those seeking active experiences

The profile of the Brazilian traveler visiting San Pedro tends to be active, curious, and eager to accumulate memorable experiences. And indeed, Atacama perfectly adapts to that travel style. Each day can offer a different adventure, regardless of physical level or prior experience.

Among the most popular activities are trekking along ancient paths, such as the one leading to the Guatín canyon, or climbing volcanoes like Láscar or Toco. Sandboarding in the dunes of the Valley of Death, floating in the saline Laguna Cejar, or bicycle tours through scenic routes that cross salt flats and Atacameño towns are also highlights.

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 protagonist of the night

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

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

The guided astronomical tours in Portuguese offer the opportunity to understand what you are seeing, combining scientific explanations with ancestral stories. It is a magical activity that ends 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 San Pedro de Atacama is the best destination for stargazing?

Services, comfort, and everything needed to enjoy without worries

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 options are varied and cater 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 around, find good restaurants with vegetarian or gluten-free options, and buy souvenirs at local craft fairs. Everything is within a short distance, making it easy to move around San Pedro even without a vehicle.

Moreover, the excursions are well organized, tours depart on time, and the guides are often passionate individuals about the place, with a vocation for service. This welcoming atmosphere allows travelers to enjoy the destination without worrying about logistical details. Even if it is your first time in Chile, you will feel accompanied from the very first moment.

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 experience 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 salty waters, 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