Visual Hotel Review: Awasi Atacama, San Pedro de Atacama
There’s an atmosphere inside the walls of Awasi Atacama that’s hard to describe.
A type of calm that allows you to breathe deeper and refresh.
A warmth that makes you feel at home amongst carefully curated décor, cuisine and design.
Then there’s the beautiful balance of immersive adventure, art and relaxation.
It’s the type of place you’ll forever be grateful you stayed, somewhere so unlike anywhere else. For me, it was an artistic escape, a chance to explore the wildlife and natural wonders of the desert and Andean Altiplano, while focusing on my creative process, slowing things down and really taking the time to let it all soak in. Places like this are few and far between, and the Atacama Desert has continued to be somewhere that fuels my creativity, a stay at Awasi took that one step further.
Take a peek at my experience below…
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Let’s skip to the first evening, for which we’d arranged with our guide and private driver, Cecilia, to spend overlooking Lincancabur Volcano and the Mars Valley, just outside San Pedro de Atacama.
Photographing sunset is something I always try and do on the first night of a trip, because you never know how many chances you’ll get at great conditions, and well, the more sunsets the better…right?
After a little off roading, we arrived to the escarpment, with extensive views into the valley and toward the volcano. Having previously visited the Atacama Desert before, I knew what to expect in terms of the expansive scene but had wondered if I’d still be wowed the second time, of course, I needn’t have worried.
While photographing the pastel tones appearing across the sky and patterns within the rocky landscape below, I turned to see Cecilia setting up the most beautiful spread of cheese, wine, and snacks complete with a private table and chairs.
Usually, when I’m out photographing landscapes, I’m a muesli bar on-the-go kind of gal, but this, was special, it felt opulent even, but in the most relaxed way, creating an ideal setting to watch the sun set and photograph until darkness took over.
This being our first day, meant we were in for a mighty treat over the next six days exploring the Atacama Desert and Altiplano.
THE LOCATION
Awasi Atacama is located in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, in the heart of the Atacama Desert. The closest airport is Calama, and it’s here you’ll be collected from after arriving, with transfers directly to the gates of Awasi. The journey takes just over an hour and you’ll have your eyes glued to the scenery outside, it’s like landing on another planet…one that gets better the closer you arrive to your destination!
The property is an intimate retreat within the township of San Pedro de Atacama, and once you step inside the gates, you’re welcomed into a luxurious desert oasis where birdsong blends with the soothing sounds of water.
Nestled amidst the raw beauty of the desert, the driest, non-polar desert in the world, Awasi Atacama immediately immerses you in the essence of the Atacama Desert’s unique geography. The drive from Calama Airport takes you through stretches of red rock and salt flats, with the mighty Licancabur Volcano standing sentinel on the horizon.
Awasi is perfectly positioned for those looking to explore nearby sites like the Valle de la Luna, Salar de Atacama, and El Tatio Geysers. Yet, its secluded location also ensures a peaceful escape after a day of adventure.
THE DESIGN
With only ten private suites, Awasi Atacama feels more like a beautifully special desert hideaway than a traditional hotel. The circular rooms are designed with rustic elegance, featuring local wood, stone, and woven textiles that reflect the region’s culture.
The furniture and bedding are every bit as comfortable as they are opulent. My favourite piece in the room was a gorgeous armchair, with plush cushions and wooden detailing, it was perched and waiting for someone to sit down and write a book, the ideal library chair!
Every suite comes with a spacious bathroom, walk-up bath tub, plus an indoor and an open-air shower, perfect for stargazing while washing off the desert dust. I opted for an outdoor shower and sprinkle in the sunshine after a swim before enjoying the cozy private courtyard, complete with deck chairs and umbrellas, ie. very afternoon nap worthy.
The communal spaces are equally inviting, with the main lodge offering an airy, open-plan dining area and lounge that overlooks the pool. The design ethos here is simple yet refined, bringing the outdoors in with large windows and soft, earthy tones.
Also, I need to note the artistic elements weaved throughout the reservation process, the arrival documents, maps, wildlife guides and website. The gorgeous watercolour paintings and design aspects that popped up throughout my stay were so inspiring! I’ve kept every piece of paper and map as they all felt like works of art, aligning with the ethos and environmental focus of Awasi.
THE LITTLE LUXURIES
When staying at a five-star hotel or resort, a level of luxury and great service is to be expected, but at Awasi Atacama, the thing that surpassed all of my expectations was the seemingly natural and never-ending flow of surprises, detail, and wonder.
There’s such a high level of care and attention taken in service across all fields, the entire stay felt completely carefree from a guest perspective, like we were in the best of hands no matter what the activity or experience. From the freshly baked gluten free rolls and breads each morning (that I never needed to request after noting my allergy prior to arriving), to the small handmade dolls placed at each table setting, the picnic lunches, the evening stories on the pillow, the gift box with a little surprise each day, and the faultless cleaning and room refreshing.
Every single detail in the room, meal at the restaurant, drink from the bar, or experience outdoors was impeccable, with the staff going about their duties and day with such a relaxed attitude that it never feels like you’re a bother, their lovely attitude and friendly nature made the entire stay feel so special.
THE FOOD
Now, I’ve said it before, but I’ll note it again, I’m not a foodie and struggle to cook much beyond toast or the occasional stir-fry. However, I have been lucky to eat at a number of amazing restaurants around the world, and couldn’t publish this review without discussing the food at Awasi, my goodness, it was exquisite. The dining experience at Awasi Atacama is as exceptional as its excursions. With a menu that changes daily, inspired by local ingredients and traditional flavours, meals here are a journey through the tastes of northern Chile and beyond. The team crafts each dish with a modern twist, from quinoa-based starters to octopus and succulent slow-cooked meats.
Awasi’s commitment to sustainability shines through its focus on locally sourced produce, much of which is grown in their own organic garden.
Another little treat, you’re presented with a personalised menu at the start of your stay, and can add each evening’s menu pages to it, creating your own booklet of inspiring dishes to try making at home!
THE ADVENTURES
The hallmark of Awasi Atacama is its one-on-one approach to guest experiences. Each room is assigned a private guide and a 4WD vehicle, available to whisk you away to wherever you wish within the area, ensuring tailor-made adventures based on personal preferences and interests. Upon arrival, the team will discuss adventure options for your stay, with a huge map to share where and what is possible. You can follow their lead, or if you’ve got specific spots you want to see, they’ll do their best to weave an itinerary that’ll wow you.
Having visited the region before, I had an idea of where I wanted to go, and was so excited when Cecilia was keen to make it happen. While I wanted to revisit the closer locations like Valle de la Luna and Laguna Chaxa, I had been scouring Google Maps to seek out both colourful and minimal landscapes.
My wishlist? Piedras Rojas and Monjes de La Pacana, both high on the Altiplano where there’s plenty of minimal landscapes to photograph and wildlife!
With 48hrs to play with at the lower altitudes, Cecilia recommended we also visit Valle de Arcoiris (Rainbow Valley), and I’m so happy she did because the images I captured there were among my favourite of the trip.
*Due to the altitude, it’s recommended to base yourself around San Pedro de Atacama for the first 24-48hrs, before venturing a little higher the following day, then higher again if you’re feeling fine. Altitude sickness can hit anyone regardless of age, fitness level etc, be sure to take it easy and schedule enough days to enjoy adventures at a lower altitude, then also those a little higher if you can.
Let’s take a peek at some of the photography locations I visited over five days.
Valle de la Luna
Mars Valley
Valle de Arcoiris
Piedras Rojas
Laguna Chaxa
Monjes de La Pacana
Andean Altiplano Landscapes (taken at roadside stops)
Awasi Atacama offers a rare combination of luxurious accommodation and bespoke adventure in one of the most photogenic regions on earth. Its blend of personalised service, attention to detail, and the sheer beauty of the desert make it a standout destination for those seeking more than just a hotel stay—a true escape into the heart of Atacama.
Whether you’re planning to immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, photograph every sunrise and sunset, or unwind in the tranquil setting, Awasi Atacama will leave you with unforgettable memories of Chile’s desert wonderland. Oh, and to mention, if you’re planning on travelling to Patagonia too, you can combine locations with one of their packages to also include Awasi Patagonia in Torres del Paine National Park.
Book a stay + learn more here.
Take a peek at some imagery from my stay below…
Hello! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens.
With 17+yrs experience as a professional travel and landscape photographer, all advice found on this site is from my personal experience on the road. I hope it’s useful for your own travels and would love to hear in the comments about your trips and experiences around the world.
