Our first full day in San Pedro de Atacama, on Tuesday, October 20th, brought together two very different landscapes and plenty of opportunities to explore. From a morning trek through the Purilibre area to an afternoon surrounded by the extraordinary formations of Valle de la Luna, our students experienced some of the natural wonders that make the Atacama Desert such a remarkable place.
After breakfast, the group headed to Purilibre for a trekking experience through the desert landscape. Surrounded by rocky mountains and the unexpected presence of natural thermal waters, students discovered a side of the Atacama Desert that contrasts with its reputation as one of the driest places on Earth. The excursion offered an opportunity to observe the environment closely, appreciate its natural beauty, and share the experience of exploring an unfamiliar landscape together.
Following the morning adventure and a well-deserved lunch, our students continued their journey towards one of the region’s most recognisable destinations: Valle de la Luna.
Located within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, Valle de la Luna is known for its extraordinary geological formations, vast dunes, and landscapes that resemble the surface of the Moon. As they explored the area, students had the opportunity to appreciate how wind, salt, and natural processes have shaped the desert over time, creating an environment unlike anything they encounter in their everyday surroundings.
The visit also provided a wonderful connection between geography, science, and direct observation. Seeing these formations in person allowed students to appreciate the scale, colours, and textures of the desert while discovering how nature can transform a landscape over thousands of years.
After a day filled with walking, exploration, and discoveries, the group gathered for dinner at Franchutería, bringing their first full day of activities to a close. Beyond the places visited, the experience also offered moments of friendship, conversation, and shared memories among students and teachers.
Our first day in San Pedro de Atacama was a wonderful combination of discovery, adventure, and learning outside the classroom. We invite our school community to enjoy some of the photographs from our visits to Purilibre and Valle de la Luna, capturing the landscapes and experiences that made this first day so special.
Article written by the ICT Team
Edited and enhanced with AI support
