Sandboarding in the Atacama: Chile’s Desert Thrill

Surfing the Sands of Another Planet

Close your eyes and picture it: vast golden dunes under a blazing sun, rugged rock formations on the horizon, and not a drop of water in sight. Then — whoosh! You’re carving down a sand slope, wind in your hair, heart racing. Welcome to sandboarding in the Atacama — Chile’s most unexpected and exhilarating desert sport.

In the heart of South America, the Atacama Desert offers an adventure travel experience like no other. Often dubbed “the driest place on Earth,” this Martian-like landscape is full of surprises, and desert sports in Chile are gaining popularity among thrill-seekers and explorers alike.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about sandboarding in the Atacama, from the best dunes to safety tips, gear advice, real traveller anecdotes, and eco-conscious recommendations. Whether you’re a seasoned boarder or a first-timer, you’re in for a wild ride.

Why the Atacama Is the Ultimate Sandboarding Playground

A Unique Landscape Born for Speed

The Atacama Desert isn’t just any sandbox. This high-altitude plateau (over 2,400 metres above sea level) is filled with fine, fast sand and sprawling dunes shaped by relentless winds.

• Zero humidity = consistent, smooth boarding
• Vast dune ranges = fewer crowds and open space
• Alien scenery = Instagram gold and sensory overload

Conditions You Won’t Find Elsewhere

Unlike coastal or Sahara dunes, the Atacama’s terrain is hard-packed, offering a thrilling, faster descent. Plus, the combination of arid air and jaw-dropping views makes it feel like you’re shredding on another planet.

Top Spots to Try Sandboarding in the Atacama

1. Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley)

Don’t be intimidated by the name — this is the go-to spot for sandboarding near San Pedro de Atacama. With towering dunes and easy accessibility, it’s perfect for beginners and intermediates.

• Dune height: Up to 120 metres
• Best time: Early morning or just before sunset (avoid peak heat!)
• Tip: Book a guide to avoid climbing the dunes repeatedly on foot

2. Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

This world-famous valley isn’t just for stargazing and selfies. Some operators now run private boarding tours here, with the added bonus of surreal rock and salt formations all around.

• Ideal for: Photography lovers and advanced boarders
• Note: Permits or guided tours are often required

3. Duna Mayor near Cerro Toco

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, Duna Mayor offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

• Access: 4×4 recommended
• Experience level: Intermediate to advanced
• Bonus: Pair it with an astronomy night tour for a perfect day

A Day in the Dunes: My First Sandboarding Wipe-Out

It was mid-afternoon in Death Valley. The desert sun baked everything in sight. My guide, Andrés, handed me a waxed board and grinned, “You’ll fall at least three times. That’s the price of fun.”

I feel five.

The first attempt ended in a somersault that left me with sand in every possible crevice. But the second run? I glided. For a few glorious seconds, I felt like I was surfing on sunshine. That mix of terror and joy? Pure adrenaline.

And that’s the charm — it’s not about perfection. It’s about laughing through the spills and standing up for more.

What You’ll Need: Gear & Clothing Checklist

Rent or Bring Your Own?

Most travellers rent sandboards locally in San Pedro de Atacama. Rates range from CLP 5,000–10,000 (£5–10) per day.

Pro Tip: Choose a board with velcro bindings for more control.

Clothing & Essentials

Pack light but smart — desert weather is extreme and dusty.

• Breathable long sleeves & trousers (to avoid sunburns)
• Neck gaiter or buff (trust me, you’ll inhale sand)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Closed shoes (avoid flip-flops — your toes will thank you)
• SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply every hour)
• Water, water, and more water

Don’t forget lip balm with SPF. Desert sun and dry air = chapped misery.

Safety First: Thrills Without the Spills

1. Choose the Right Dune

Not all dunes are created equal. Beginners should stick to smoother slopes under 80 metres. Avoid steep edges until you’re confident.

2. Use a Guide

Especially if it’s your first time.

Guides offer:

• Board technique training
• Safety gear (helmets, pads)
• Rescue support if needed

3. Watch the Heat

Afternoon temperatures can soar past 35°C. Avoid midday sessions and take shade breaks between runs.

Beyond the Board: What Else to Do in the Atacama

Sandboarding is just one thrill — the desert has many more to offer.

Pair Your Boarding Adventure With:

• Stargazing tours: Atacama’s skies are the clearest on Earth
• Laguna Cejar: Float in super-salty water like the Dead Sea
• El Tatio Geysers: Steam rises at sunrise in this geothermal wonder
• Biking through salt flats: For land-based explorers

For more diverse planning tips, check out: How to Plan an Adventure Sports Trip on a Budget.

Cultural Insight: Respecting Atacameño Land

The Atacama isn’t just a playground — it’s sacred territory for the Atacameño people.

Before strapping in, take a moment to understand the land’s significance:

• Ask permission if entering local areas
• Leave no trace — pack out all rubbish
• Avoid shouting or blasting music — let the desert speak

You’re not just a visitor. You’re a temporary steward of something ancient.

Best Time of Year to Sandboard

Golden Hour Tip: Hit the dunes 1 hour before sunset for magic light and cooler sand.

Planning Logistics: Getting There and Around

How to Reach the Atacama

• Fly into Calama Airport (CJC) — 1.5 hr from San Pedro by bus or car
• Bus routes from Santiago or Antofagasta are cheaper but much longer (up to 20 hrs)

Getting to the Dunes

• Tour operators offer door-to-dune transport
• Renting a car offers flexibility, but beware: roads are sandy and unsigned

Where to Stay: San Pedro de Atacama

Budget-Friendly:

• Backpackers San Pedro – great vibe, free breakfast
• Hostal Campo Base – clean and quiet, perfect for early risers

Mid-Range:

• Hotel Poblado Kimal – charming adobe-style rooms and a pool
• Altiplanico Atacama – eco-luxe stay close to the centre

Luxury:

• Explora Atacama Lodge – full adventure packages included
• Tierra Atacama – spa, fine dining, and serious star views

Eco-Adventure Tips: Leave the Dunes Better Than You Found Them

• Use biodegradable sunscreen to avoid polluting sand and ecosystems
• Never carve names or marks into dunes — erosion is real
• Pack a reusable water bottle and snack containers
• Join local clean-up events — some tour operators offer this as a bonus day

You’ll also enjoy this helpful guide: How to Pack for Multi-Climate Adventure Trips.

Conclusion: Slide into the Extraordinary

Sandboarding in the Atacama isn’t just a sport — it’s a rite of passage. It’s about tackling nature’s playground with open eyes and open arms. The sand stings a bit, the climbs burn your legs, and your hair will never be the same again.

But the moment you take that first glide down a sunlit dune, the desert becomes your dance partner. It’s freedom, fun, and fear — all rolled into one dusty, unforgettable ride.

Ready to Ride the Sands of Chile?

Pack your gear, grab your sense of humour, and book that flight. Have you tried sandboarding before? Share your best wipe-out story or your top desert travel tip in the comments below. Subscribe for more in-depth guides on adventure travel in South America and beyond.