Things To Do
in Toconao
Toconao is a small village located in the Atacama Desert region of northern Chile. The town is known for its charming colonial architecture and traditional adobe buildings. Toconao also boasts a historic church made of white volcanic stone and a picturesque main square surrounded by cacti.
The surrounding landscape features stunning salt flats, volcanoes, and various desert flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local Plaza de Armas, enjoying the architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café.
Spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful architecture of Toconao, particularly the iconic San Lucas Church. You can also visit local artisan shops that showcase unique crafts.
Relax in the peaceful surroundings of Toconao while watching the sunset. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional Chilean dishes.
Embark on a morning hike in the surrounding Atacama Desert landscape. The breathtaking views are perfect for photography and connecting with nature.
After lunch, continue your trek towards the Los Flamencos National Reserve. The diverse flora and fauna, especially flamingos, will leave you in awe.
Return to Toconao and unwind after your adventurous day. Enjoy a dinner at your accommodation or a local eatery to taste more of the local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with proximity to the Atacama Desert and San Pedro de Atacama.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional handicrafts and local art.
- Quaint small-town atmosphere offering a peaceful retreat from urban life.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking and stargazing.
- Cultural festivals and events that showcase local traditions and cuisine.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
- Extreme climate with hot days and cold nights, which may be uncomfortable for some.
- Isolated location may require extensive travel to reach other cities or attractions.
- Limited healthcare and emergency services may be a concern for some visitors.
Best Activities in Toconao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the central plaza of Toconao, surrounded by traditional architecture and local artisan shops. Enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Engage in hiking opportunities in the nearby Los Flamingos National Reserve, famous for its unique flora and fauna, and stunning views of the Andes.
Explore the historic San Lucas Church, known for its beautiful stone architecture and picturesque setting within the village.
Experience the incredible night skies of northern Chile by going stargazing in the Andes, renowned for their clarity and visibility of celestial bodies.
Participate in a photography tour to capture the unique landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant colors of the Atacama Desert surrounding Toconao.
Take a short trip to the nearby village of Socaire, known for its cultural heritage and beautiful highland landscapes, perfect for outdoor exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Toconao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Toconao
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the village, surrounded by charming colonial architecture and offering picturesque views of the Andes.
This historic church, made of local stone and wood, provides a stunning backdrop against the desert landscape.
Located nearby, these geothermal fields offer dramatic contrasts with the landscape, especially at sunrise.
A beautiful gorge with striking rock formations and rich vegetation, offering unique photo opportunities.
Just outside Toconao, this vast expanse of salt offers surreal landscapes, especially at sunset.
Home to various species of flamingos, this reserve provides incredible wildlife photography under the backdrop of stunning mountains.
A geothermally active area known for its hot springs and geysers, creating a unique landscape to capture.
A scenic waterfall that provides a refreshing contrast to the arid surroundings, perfect for dynamic shots.
Food in Toconao
Toconao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly-sliced llama meat, marinated in local spices and herbs, often served with a citrusy dressing. A must-try for adventurous foodies. You can savor this dish at Restaurante El Toconar, a popular spot known for its traditional Andean cuisine.
Must-Try!
A savory pie made with ground corn, filled with a hearty mixture of beef, chicken, onions, raisins, and olives. For an authentic taste of this classic Chilean dish, head to Hosteria San Pedro de Atacama, where it's prepared with the utmost care.
Flaky pastries filled with a succulent mixture of seasoned ground beef, onions, black olives, hard-boiled eggs, and raisins. Dona Tina's Empanadas is a renowned local spot to enjoy these savory treats.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Toconao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling Toconao Market to sample an array of local treats, including dried fruits, nuts, and honey. Here, you can also find freshly-made empanadas and other traditional street food delights.
Explore the Plaza de Armas, where local vendors offer an assortment of street food such as anticuchos (grilled meat skewers), sopaipillas (fried pastry), and mote con huesillo (a traditional Chilean drink made with wheat and dried peaches).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions of the Atacameño people, as Toconao is a small town rich in indigenous culture. Engaging respectfully with local practices and participating in community events can enhance your experience.
While Toconao is a tourist-friendly destination, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. This shows respect for local values and customs, and helps in blending in with the local populace.
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or private settings. Many locals appreciate being asked and this demonstrates respect for their privacy and cultural significance.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Toconao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Toconao
Ensure a smooth experience
In Toconao, as in many parts of Chile, tipping is customary but not mandatory. It is generally expected to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants and bars if the service is satisfactory. In some cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it's wise to check before leaving an additional amount. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is a common practice.
Payment methods in Toconao typically include cash and credit or debit cards. While larger establishments are more likely to accept cards, smaller shops and local vendors may prefer cash. The Chilean peso (CLP) is the official currency, and it's advisable for visitors to carry some cash for smaller purchases or markets. ATMs are available, but it's best to check in advance if they are accessible in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Toconao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Toconao (September to November) offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby San Pedro de Atacama region, as the weather is generally pleasant.
Summer (December to February) brings warmer temperatures, making it the peak tourist season. Expect sunny days, ideal for sightseeing and visiting the local markets. However, it can get quite hot during the day, so visitors should plan for early morning or late afternoon excursions.
Autumn (March to May) features cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. This season is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quieter experience, with beautiful golden foliage. Nights can be chilly, so layering is advisable.
Winter (June to August) in Toconao is characterized by cool temperatures, especially at night. This is the off-peak season, which means less crowded attractions. Visitors can enjoy the stark beauty of the landscapes, although they should be prepared for the possibility of rain.
Toconao at Night
Hiking in Toconao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast reserve featuring diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and stunning landscapes, including salt flats and lagoons where flamingos can be seen.
Home to one of the highest geyser fields in the world, this site offers scenic hiking opportunities with incredible geothermal activity and breathtaking sunrise views.
This salt flat region provides unique hiking paths and the chance to explore the stunning topography and wildlife, including various bird species.
A popular hiking peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding high-altitude desert landscape, making it a rewarding trek.
While primarily known for swimming, the area also features trails for walking or hiking around the picturesque lagoon with views of the Andes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Toconao through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Toconao by plane.
Located in Calama, approximately 113 kilometers north of Toconao, El Loa Airport serves the Antofagasta region and provides both domestic and international flights.
Also known as Rodríguez de Mendoza Airport, this airport is located in Arequipa, Peru, roughly 254 kilometers away from Toconao, providing more international connections.
Located in Santiago, Chile, about 1,600 kilometers to the south of Toconao, it is the largest airport in the country and serves as a major international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Atacameño people, also known as Lickan Antay, are the predominant ethnic group in Toconao, maintaining their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Toconao attracts national and international tourists, especially for its picturesque landscapes, historical architecture, and proximity to the Salar de Atacama.
The town has a small population of locals who engage in agriculture, crafts, and tourism-related activities.
The Soul of Toconao
Discover the essence of Toconao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Toconao, as in much of Chile, with local teams often participating in informal league matches and community tournaments.
The surrounding landscapes offer excellent trails for mountain biking, making it a popular recreational activity among locals and visitors.
Hiking is popular in the scenic areas near Toconao, with many trails that showcase the region's natural beauty and local flora.
Due to its unique geography, various sports and activities related to the Atacama Desert, such as sandboarding, are enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
Local traditional games are popular in community events, celebrating cultural heritage and traditions among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toconao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Toconao provide vegetarian and vegan menu options, such as Cafe Adobe, which offers fresh salads and plant-based dishes with a local twist.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pasta dishes at Los Hornitos and find dietary-friendly options at various other restaurants and cafes in town.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Toconao with these cultural adventures.
