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Atacama

Atacama is a vast desert located in the Antofagasta Region of Chile. It is known for its otherworldly landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and clear night skies. The region is a popular destination for photographers, as it offers a variety of stunning locations to capture. From the salt flats of Salar de Atacama to the towering Tatio Geysers, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to photograph. The region is also home to several small towns and villages, each with their own charm and character, making it a great place to explore and capture the local culture.

Calm morning
Laguna Lejia
by Jiri Hajek

Laguna Lejía is a beautiful lake high in the Atacama Plateau. It is surrounded by several volcanoes, namely Chiliques, Lascar, Aguas Calientes and Acamarachi.

Photo tips: The salt deposits all around the lake make an interesting foreground.

Getting there: Expect about 1-2 hours drive from San Pedro de Atacama, the later part on a rough bumpy track that doesn't request any special 4x4 driving skills though.

Valle de la Luna and Licancabur Volcano at sunset - San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Moon Valley from above
by My Planet Experience
flickr.com
Golden flame
Above Salar de Tara
by Jiri Hajek

Early morning above Salar de Tara, patches of the grass are backlighted by raising Sun, thousands of flamingos in the lake. Anything more to ask for? ;-)

Sunrise at Salar
Above Salar de Tara
by Jiri Hajek

After a very windy day and night, this peaceful morning was a welcomed change. Salar de Tara is a beautiful location and watching flamingoes in the salar from a vantage point above was an unforgettable experience.

San Francisco Church - Chiu - Chiu -- Chile
San Francisco de Chiu Chiu

Chiu - Chiu

Today, it´s possible to find the San Francisco Church, National Monument since 1951 and one of the oldest in the country.

Location ...

flickr.com

Thanks to all Phoide contributors to Atacama!
Most notably Jiri Hajek.