The Atacama Desert in Chile, known as the driest desert in the world — I checked — offers an otherworldly experience with unique landscapes, rich cultural history, and stunning natural wonders.

From salt flats and geysers to star-filled skies and ancient ruins, you'll have an unforgettable week in the Atacama Desert.

Day 1: Santiago

If you're making the trip to San Pedro de Atacama, you'll probably have a layover in Santiago. It's worth making a night or two of it, if you want to balance out some of the desert adventures. Hotel Mangolia is a solid hotel walking distance from some of the best areas, making it an ideal landing spot for your trip. Check in then take the 5-minute walk to Area coffee or R3 coffee. Explore the city and work up an appetite for a flight of wine and dinner at Bocanariz. 

Day 2: San Pedro de Atacama

If you're eager to make it into nature (aren't we all), board a flight to Calama, and pick up a rental car from the airport. Grab some snacks for the 1.5h drive to Nayara Alto Atacama, your home base for the week. They can help you organize tours nearby, or you can explore on your own. 

This night, cozy up by the outdoor fire with a glass of wine, and get ready for dinner at the hotel. 

Day 3: Valle de los Cactus

Roughly 6 miles, the hike a Valle de los Cactus combines epic scenery with some off-roading, trekking, and stream-jumping. The cactus here have been here, well, kind of forever, and they continue to grow at a measly 1 cm per year. 

After the hike, head back to freshen up, then make your way to San Pedro de Atacama for drinks and dinner. ChelaCabur is the spot for beer, and just across the street, grab a traditional dinner at Adobe. 

Tonight, you'll want to do some star gazing back at the hotel, so make it back for the 9PM viewing. 

Day 4: Devil's Throat

Get a leisurely start on day four, before picking up some bikes and riding into Devil's Throat. You could spend the afternoon exploring here, riding up to the top then ditching the bikes to hike the remainder. 

When you're finished, head back to town for lunch at La Franchuteria. The sandwiches are massive, and you can't go wrong with any of their fresh-bread products.

Day 5: Tocorpuri

Today, we're heading on a half-day hike in Tocorpuri. Pack some coffee for the journey—you're gonna need it. For this hike, we went with a guide, since getting here can be a trek in itself. With this elevation, you'll want a few days in San Pedro to acclimate. 

Day 6: Laguna Piedra

You can't go to the Atacama Desert and not visit the salt flats. Laguna Piedra will make you feel small, in so many ways. Make sure to check the hours. Some are reserved for tours or locals only. Take a quick dip, take in the scenery, then take a nap on the drive back. 

If you still have it in you, end the night with beers at Cervecería St. Peter and super-authentic food at Las Delicias de Carmen.

Day 7: San Pedro de Atacama to Santiago

The time has come. Brew a morning cup of Disco Disco then set out on the journey to Santiago. It's going to be a long day on the road.