Atacama Desert: Rapid road trip

After nearly a week of flying in Iquique we decided to go for a little road trip in the Atacama Desert taking advantage of the car rented by Seb and Sofia.
First we stopped in Pica an oasis in the middle of the desert with some refreshing pools.

Then we headed towards the moon and death valleys. Impressive features in the middle of the desert. At it was late at night, we decided to camp in the desert. What a beautiful sky !

Spot the dust devil 

In the morning we went for a visit to the death and moon valley. Very impressive rock formations.

Carrying on on our fast road trip we passed through San Pedro de Atacama, a small village that became the convergence point for tourists in the area. Even if the atmosphere was nice in the village we didn't stay long and continued quickly towards our goal, the Miscanti park.

The Miscanti park main attraction are two beautiful lagunas surounded by volcanoes. A beautiful setting that reminded me of the Uyuni tour landscapes. Being at 4200m of elevation, the effect of altitude quickly sprung out and we were all (except Sofia) kind of drunk which was quite funny to see. The amazing thing as well is that we were alone in this beautiful place a luxury that I lacked in Uyuni.

On the way back we went for a visit at the Atacama Salt Flats.And saw many flamingos. It was the first flamingos for Sofia and Seb!

We finished this long and mind blowing day of visit at a perfect wild camp site in a small canyon featuring a river (a dream place for rock climbers). Finally sitting with a bottle of wine and some great pasta-soup for a good chat :) .

Bonus Pics:

Life of Brian

Atacama's sun doesn't spare the greek skin

Morning