DEPARTURES
BEYOND THE MIRAGE
Nayara Alto Atacama offers an exquisite blend of luxury and nature, nestled within Chile’s majestic Atacama Desert, providing a serene oasis for the discerning traveler.
BIANCA DAVIS
Nestled in the heart of Chile’s unforgiving Atacama Desert, amidst the majestic red-rock canyons of the Salt Mountains, lies an oasis of luxury and tranquility that beckons the discerning traveler: Nayara Alto Atacama. This exquisite retreat is a harmonious blend of nature’s raw beauty and refined elegance, designed to offer an unparalleled experience in the world’s driest desert. Located a mere 1.5 miles from the oasis town of San Pedro, it offers a serene escape from the everyday, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stillness of the desert. The lodge’s adobe-style architecture merges seamlessly with its surroundings, creating a natural haven that celebrates the indigenous heritage and the environment.
The eight-acre grounds are a testament to the beauty of adaptation, featuring native plants and a charming llama paddock. With six outdoor pools of varying temperatures, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and a plethora of amenities including a restaurant, bar, and spa, Nayara Alto Atacama is a sanctuary where luxury meets nature. The lodge’s 42 rooms are a masterclass in sustainable luxury, crafted with native techniques and materials to blend into the landscape. Cool and comfortable without the need for air conditioning, each room is a private retreat with stunning views of the desert or the lush gardens. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Tilo Suites offer spacious interiors, private terraces, and even outdoor showers, overlooking the serene Catarpe Valley.
Dining at Nayara Alto Atacama is an adventure in itself. The restaurant’s menu features locally grown organic ingredients, transforming traditional dishes into gourmet experiences. Coupled with a selection of Chile’s finest wines, every meal is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship. The Puri Spa is a haven of relaxation, utilizing the desert’s natural resources to rejuvenate and invigorate guests. With treatments that draw on water from glacial snow, the spa offers a unique oasis experience, complemented by Finnish saunas, Turkish baths, and Scottish showers.
Nayara Alto Atacama is a gateway to the mysteries of the Atacama Desert. The resort offers an array of activities, from hiking through lunar landscapes and cycling among dunes, to exploring ancient geysers, lagoons, and Incan ruins. The clear desert skies offer an unparalleled stargazing experience, enhanced by the lodge’s open-air observatory and the expertise of resident astronomer Pía Urbano Mena.
Sustainability and respect for the local culture are at the heart of Nayara Alto Atacama’s ethos. With over half of the staff being indigenous, guests gain a deeply personal insight into the region’s history and traditions. The lodge’s commitment to the environment is evident in its careful water management and the preservation of the surrounding landscape.
Nayara Alto Atacama stands as a testament to the beauty that arises when luxury and nature converge. It offers not just a place to stay, but a profound experience that touches the soul. For the luxury traveler seeking an escape into the heart of the desert, Nayara Alto Atacama promises an unforgettable journey of discovery, relaxation, and adventure. This enchanting oasis awaits to transform your perception of the desert, making it a top destination for those who seek the extraordinary.