San Pedro de Atacama, nestled in the Chilean Altiplano, is a magical desert destination rich in landscapes, culture, and adventure. However, it’s not exactly known for being budget-friendly. That said, with smart planning and the right strategies, travelers can explore this iconic region without draining their wallets. At South American Luxe, we believe luxury can also mean traveling wisely. Here’s a comprehensive guide with top money-saving tips to help you enjoy San Pedro de Atacama without compromising your experience.
1. Take Advantage of Discounted Entry Fees
Many of San Pedro’s must-see natural attractions offer special rates for students, children, and seniors. To qualify, students can show an ID from their academic institution or an ISIC (International Student Identity Card). Timing also plays a role—some sites, like the Puritama Hot Springs, have different prices based on the time of day.
Discounted Attractions and Prices (in USD)
| Attraction | General | Students | Seniors/Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valle de la Luna | $3.16 | $2.11 | $1.58 |
| Geysers del Tatio (Chilean citizens) | $7.37 | $4.21 | – |
| Lagunas Altiplánicas (Miscanti & Miñiques) | $2.63 | $1.58 | $1.58 (seniors) / $0.53 (children) |
| Termas de Puritama | $20.53 (AM) | $12.32 (PM, Mon–Fri) | |
Tip: Always carry your ID and student card, even digital versions, to benefit from these reduced rates.
2. Skip Breakfast-Included Stays
Most morning tours in San Pedro include a light breakfast—typically coffee or tea, fruit, and a warm sandwich. Booking a room with included breakfast may seem convenient but is often redundant. Opt for accommodations without breakfast to cut unnecessary costs, especially since you’ll likely be out exploring during those hours.
3. Book Your Accommodation Early
Like any high-demand destination, accommodation prices in San Pedro fluctuate based on availability. Booking early not only secures your spot but also often results in significantly lower prices. A shared dorm in a hostel averages around $10.53 per night. If you’re lucky or do some footwork in town, you might find options for as low as $8.42.
Pro Tip: Some hostels don’t list themselves online. Walking around the town center—especially near Licancabur and Calama streets—can uncover hidden gems offering lower rates.
4. Eat Away from the Tourist Center
Dining in central San Pedro can be pricey. However, if you’re willing to walk a bit, you can enjoy authentic Chilean meals at a fraction of the cost. Behind the football field, for instance, there are local food stalls offering generous meals (beans, stews, grilled chicken, tortillas) for approximately $3.68.
More local tips:
- Head to “Canaan” minimarket at the end of Caracoles Street for giant empanadas priced at just $2.11.
- Buy groceries from local shops and cook at your hostel—many have communal kitchens.
Insider Tip: Arrive before 2:30 PM to avoid missing out, as many stalls run out of food by mid-afternoon.
5. Explore on Two Wheels
One of the best and most affordable ways to explore San Pedro and its surroundings is by renting a bicycle. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also allows you to move at your own pace.
Bike Rental Rates
- Full day: ~$6.32
- Half day: ~$3.16
Popular spots accessible by bike include:
- Valle de la Luna
- Valle de la Muerte
- Laguna Céjar
- Pukará de Quitor
Tip: Bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and download an offline map for safety.
6. Join Free or Donation-Based Tours
If you’re looking to save without sacrificing cultural experiences, consider joining a free walking tour. These typically last about two hours and operate on a “pay what you want” basis. They’re led by knowledgeable locals eager to share the rich history and heritage of the region.
Another budget-friendly experience is visiting ALMA Observatory—the largest of its kind in the world. While reservations are required, the visit is completely free and gives you a fascinating glimpse into astronomical science in the Atacama Desert.
Note: Availability can be limited. Book your spot well in advance online.
7. Use the Free Wi-Fi in the Main Square
Need to catch up online but don’t want to spend money in cafés? Head to the Plaza de Armas where the local municipality offers complimentary Wi-Fi. It may not be lightning fast, but it’s good enough for messages and planning your next tour. And best of all, it’s completely free.
Bonus Tip: Download offline maps and guides while connected, so you don’t have to rely on constant internet access.
8. Travel in the Off-Season
Just like in many tourist destinations, timing is key. San Pedro de Atacama receives the most visitors during the Chilean summer (December to February) and local holidays. During these peak seasons, prices for accommodation, food, and tours tend to surge. If you’re flexible, traveling in the shoulder months—March to May or August to November—can significantly reduce your expenses.
Not only will you enjoy lower rates, but you’ll also benefit from fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and more personalized experiences during tours.
Estimated Savings in Off-Peak Travel
| Service | Peak Season | Off-Peak Season | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel Night | $12.63 | $8.42 | ~ $4.21 |
| Standard Tour | $36.84 | $26.32 | ~ $10.53 |
| Meals | $7.37/day | $4.74/day | ~ $2.63 |
9. Share Costs with Other Travelers
Whether you’re solo or in a small group, there are plenty of opportunities to split expenses with fellow travelers. Many tourists in San Pedro post in local Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, or hostel bulletin boards to coordinate shared tours, bike rentals, or car hires.
For example, hiring a vehicle to visit Piedras Rojas or Salar de Tara may seem expensive, but splitting costs among 4 people turns it into an economical option. Hostels often help guests coordinate such arrangements.
Tip: Join travel forums or ask your hostel staff about shared plans. You’ll save money and meet new people along the way.
10. Bring Cash – and the Right Currency
ATMs in San Pedro are known to run out of cash during high seasons, and not all establishments accept credit or debit cards. Avoid costly international withdrawal fees and unfavorable exchange rates by bringing Chilean pesos in advance or exchanging currency at reputable places in larger cities like Calama or Santiago before arriving.
Additionally, be aware of ATM transaction limits and extra charges. If you must use an ATM in San Pedro, plan to withdraw once in a large amount rather than multiple small ones to minimize fees.
11. Skip the Souvenir Shops
While souvenirs are a nice way to remember your trip, the shops in San Pedro’s tourist center often overcharge. A better strategy is to buy directly from local artisans in nearby villages such as Toconao or Socaire. Not only are the prices better, but you’ll also support the local community more directly.
Look for handwoven textiles, alpaca wool accessories, and locally sourced salt crafts. These are more affordable, authentic, and unique compared to mass-produced trinkets.
12. Choose Combo Tour Packages
If you plan to do multiple excursions, opt for multi-day tour packages. Many agencies—including South American Luxe—offer bundled tours to popular sites like Valle de la Luna, Geysers del Tatio, and Lagunas Altiplánicas at a lower total cost than booking each separately.
Always ask if there’s a discount for booking several tours together. In many cases, the more you book, the bigger the savings.
Example Combo Tour Savings
- Individual Tours: $31.58 each x 3 = $94.74
- Combo Deal: $78.95 total
- Savings: $15.79
13. Bring Your Own Gear
Many tours and activities charge extra if you need to rent gear. For example, tours to the geysers begin before sunrise, when temperatures drop below freezing. Winter clothing, trekking shoes, or swimsuits for hot springs are essential—and expensive to rent locally.
Bringing your own equipment, even basic items like a reusable water bottle or a flashlight, saves money and enhances your comfort throughout the trip.
14. Stay in Hostels with Kitchens
Food in restaurants can quickly consume your budget. Hostels with kitchens let you prepare your own meals using ingredients bought at local markets or minimarkets. Cooking even one or two meals per day can save thousands of pesos over the course of your trip.
Bonus: cooking with fellow travelers is a great way to share recipes, make friends, and have fun while staying frugal.
15. Use Travel Apps and Tools
Several free travel apps help you compare prices, track budgets, and find hidden deals. Apps like Rome2Rio, Maps.me (offline maps), or Skyscanner are incredibly helpful when moving around northern Chile or planning a border crossing to Bolivia or Argentina.
Also consider installing local Chilean apps for transportation schedules, emergency contacts, and real-time weather alerts in the desert—especially useful for adventure travelers.
Final Thoughts
San Pedro de Atacama may not be the cheapest destination in South America, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these smart strategies, you can fully enjoy its stunning desert landscapes, otherworldly salt flats, and vibrant culture—while keeping your spending in check.
At South American Luxe, we believe in travel that is not only extraordinary but also intelligent and sustainable. With the right mindset and information, every traveler can make the most of their Atacama adventure without compromising comfort or quality.
Ready to discover San Pedro de Atacama on a budget? Contact our team at South American Luxe and let us help you build the perfect travel plan that suits your needs and wallet.
