Calama serves as the gateway to Chile’s Atacama Desert. The northern mining town is roughly 1.5 hours away from the city of San Pedro de Atacama, making it an easy daytrip on a dime.
Begin with breakfast at Maracaibo Cafe for a quick coffee and pastry for less than $6. Next, head just north of town to take a peek at the Chuquicamata mine. The world’s largest copper mine is the cornerstone of the local economy and its sheer size will leave you in awe. Spend no more than $10 to get there and back by taxi.
Next, take a stroll along the Loa River to get an idea about local life in Calama and spend time mingling with locals. For lunch, check out Rustico for great Chilean cuisine less than $10. Most of the city’s attractions are actually outside of town so get ready to hop in a car.
Seek out Laguna Colorada to witness a magnificent red lake teeming with rare flamingos. From there, drive to Árbol de Piedra. This landmark is nicknamed the Stone Tree for its unique shape that stands starkly against the flat desert landscape. Finally, you’ll want to make your way south of the city by about an hour to Valley of the Moon. This breathtaking region is a blast of vibrant colors, cliffs, canyons and more that are reminiscent of the moon. If you stay until nightfall you’ll be treated to some truly amazing stargazing. While entrance to each of these is free, you can expect to drop roughly $60 for cab fare or gas if you get a rental.
Finally, return to the city for a quick dinner at Patagonia Restaurant for a meal less than $15.
Read This Next
Under $100: Burlington, Vermont
Under $100 / North America
Jun 14, 2022#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Mar 26, 2024Study Discovers Destinations Where Hotels are Cheaper Than Home Rentals
For the longest time, travelers touted home rentals as an affordable alternative to hotels. However, is that really the case? Do you really get more for your money when you book an Airbnb versus a hotel room?
Sponsored Content
The Argosaronic Islands Are Calling
The Saronic or Argo Saronic Islands of Greece call travelers to explore its seven small islands and islets brimming with history, natural sites and more. With most easily accessible by boat, the islands’ proximity to ports of Athens make the Saronic Islands an ideal destination for those preferring shorter boat rides. In fact, trips from Athens ports to the islands take only between 10 minutes and two hours, depending on the island you choose, making them perfect for day or weekend trips.
Slideshow
Mar 26, 20245 Must-See Sites in Tallinn, Estonia
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are five must-see sites in Tallinn, Estonia.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024A Trendy Lifestyle Hotel Opens in Downtown Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee, is now home to a new trendy hotel, located half a block from Broadway and steps from shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Tempo by Hilton Nashville marks the second property to open nationally from Hilton’s stylish new brand. The hotel, which officially opened its doors Feb. 15, features 306 rooms across 16 floors.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Destinations / North America
Mar 25, 2024What to Expect at the 2024 Beachlife Festival
If you’re planning to attend Beachlife Festival 2024, May 3–5 in Redondo Beach, California, you have a lot to look forward to. The three-day event offers a packed schedule of music, art and culinary fun.
ShareThis