How often does the Atacama Desert bloom?

every five to seven years
This periodic phenomenon in Chile’s Atacama Desert is known locally as desierto florido (flowering desert). And while it typically only happens every five to seven years, this bloom actually comes on the heels of a super bloom in 2015.

Does the Atacama Desert have seasons?

The most popular season for visiting the Atacama Desert are the summer months of December, January, and February. Fall and spring in the Atacama Desert are shoulder seasons accompanied by good temperatures and fewer tourists.

What flowers are in the Atacama Desert?

More than 200 flower species bloom in the Atacama including red Garra de león, pink Pata de guanaco, yellow and pink Añañuca, blue Azulillos and other flowers. Some of the flowers are even endemic to this dry place. The super bloom is usually concentrated in the region around Huasco.

What is San Pedro de Atacama known for?

Aside from mineral deposits, the Atacama is renowned for its stunning views of the cosmos. Astronomical observatories are popular in the desert, including the La Silla Observatory, Paranal Observatory, and Llano de Chajnantor Observatory.

What time of year does the desert bloom?

From late February through March, you can find blossoms on the desert floor. To plan your visit to coincide with the peak of the bloom, take advantage of the various wildflower hotlines and information sources available from DesertUSA and the state and national parks.

What Season Are there flowers in Chile?

At its height, the phenomenon can be seen from just south of the city of Vallenar to just north of the city of Copiapó throughout the coastal valleys and Chilean Coast Range from September to November.

How much time do you need at Atacama Desert?

I believe five days is ideal to properly explore the Atacama and experience different types of excursions, allowing for time to properly acclimate to the environment. To adjust to the altitude it’s best to eat light and go easy on the alcohol on your first day or two.

Do humans live in the Atacama Desert?

Surprisingly, around one million people call the Atacama Desert home. Crowding into coastal fishing villages, mining areas and oasis towns. Inhabitants grow dry-weather produce such as olives, tomatoes and cucumbers, and herd alpacas for a living.

What plants and animals live in the Atacama Desert?

These include: llamas, vicunas, alpacas, huemel deer, mice, grey fox and viscacha (the largest member of the chinchilla family).

Is San Pedro de Atacama safe?

I found San Pedro de Atacama to be very safe. I asked in advance about safety in the evening as I had to walk back to my accommodation after the Night Sky Tour at 1 a.m. I was reassured that San Pedro Chile is safe. I did walk rather quickly down my dark street using my phone’s flashlight, but I wasn’t nervous.