Things To Do
in Calama
Calama sits in the heart of Chile's northern desert, serving as a gateway to the Atacama and to remarkable copper mining history. The city blends a rugged desert atmosphere with growing cultural amenities, from museums to cafés. Its altitude creates bright, sunlit days and cool nights, while the surrounding landscape offers stark, photogenic scenery.
Though smaller than Chile's big cities, Calama is a practical base for adventurous travelers exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Chilean pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather to start their day.
Head to the nearby Inca Cueva Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Atacama Desert. Spend time exploring the exhibits that showcase ancient artifacts and learn about the indigenous peoples of the region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes that highlight the flavors of northern Chile.
As the sun sets, join a guided tour of the historic San Pedro de Atacama, a charming village nearby. Experience the local culture through traditional music and dance performances while savoring a delightful dinner in one of the quaint eateries. Conclude your day by soaking in the stunning views of the starry desert sky, known for its clarity and brilliance.
After breakfast, gear up for an adventure into the breathtaking landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Join a guided tour that takes you to Valle de la Luna, where you can explore unique rock formations and sand dunes. Capture stunning photographs as you walk through the surreal lunar-like scenery.
Continue your desert exploration by visiting the salt flats of Salar de Atacama, home to diverse wildlife including flamingos. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the striking backdrop of salt crusts and mountains. Spend some time soaking in the serene atmosphere and watching the mesmerizing colors of the desert change with the sunlight.
Return to Calama and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Chilean cuisine. Try dishes such as pastel de choclo or empanadas, and pair your meal with a glass of Chilean wine. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
| 🚗Taxi starting fare | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Museum or tour ticket | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to dramatic desert landscapes and clear skies for stargazing
- Compact city with essential services and growing tourism infrastructure
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- High altitude and dry climate can cause dehydration and altitude discomfort for some visitors
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Calama
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic desert mountains and sculpted rock formations; best at sunrise or sunset for color and shadows.
A massive open-pit mine visible from vantage points along the road; plan a viewpoint stop or guided tour if available.
The city lights against a clear desert sky create moody urban-night photography.
Expansive flats with long shadows and color gradients as the sun lowers behind the mountains.
Food in Calama
Calama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A corn-based pie with meat and sometimes egg, offering a comforting desert staple found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Baked or fried pastries filled with beef, cheese, or vegetables; widely available at markets and casual restaurants.
A hearty meat and vegetable stew typical in Chilean homes and neighborhood diners.
A traditional Chilean sweet drink made with husked wheat and dried peaches.
Fried pumpkin-based fritters often served with chancaca syrup.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, baked goods, juices, and casual street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake or light kiss on the cheek among friends; use formal language in initial encounters.
Ask for permission before photographing people or sensitive sites; be mindful of noise and local sensitivities in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Calama
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chile, service charges are sometimes included; if not, 5–10% at restaurants and small tips for guides or drivers are appropriate.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; cash in Chilean pesos is useful for markets and small shops; some remote places may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often 30s–40s°C) with very bright sun; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Cool to cold days with chilly nights; temperatures can dip near freezing; bring a warm layer and a windbreaker.
Pleasant daytime temperatures; generally clear skies and good conditions for outdoor activities and photography.
Calama at Night
Hiking in Calama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hikes along salt formations and ridges with sweeping desert panoramas; suitable for varied fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Calama by plane.
Main airport serving the city; 8-15 km from downtown with regular flights to Santiago, Antofagasta, and other Chilean destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Chilean residents with a growing presence of migrant workers and tourists; communities around the mine and desert regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Chile with local leagues and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Markets have plenty of vegetables and grains; request vegetarian options at eateries and look for salads or veggie-filled plates.