Atacama Desert Valle de la Luna Dispersed Area

This surreal landscape offers scattered camping spots among eroded salt formations that look like frozen waves. The ground is hard-packed salt and sand with bizarre geological sculptures rising from the valley floor. Night skies here are among the clearest on Earth — bring a telescope. Scattered mining ruins add to the post-apocalyptic vibe.

Access via rough dirt roads from San Pedro de Atacama requires high-clearance vehicles. Absolutely no water or facilities — this is one of the driest places on the planet. Extreme temperature swings from scorching days to near-freezing nights. Wind can be relentless, so secure everything well.

Otherworldly camping in Earth's driest desert