Things To Do
in Toconao
Toconao is a picturesque village located in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, known for its stunning views of the Licancabur Volcano and its traditional architecture. The village is characterized by its charming adobe houses and the historic church of San Lucas, which dates back to the 18th century. Toconao is also famous for its artisanal handicrafts, particularly the intricate carvings made from local volcanic stone.
It serves as a gateway to the surrounding natural attractions, including salt flats and high-altitude lagoons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the San Lucas Church, then stroll through the village to admire the traditional adobe architecture and local artisan shops.
Visit the nearby Quebrada de Jere, a beautiful gorge with stunning rock formations and a chance to observe local wildlife.
Dine at a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Chilean cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk under the stars.
Head out to the Salar de Atacama, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views and photograph the unique salt flats.
Take a hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy panoramic views of the Atacama Desert and the Licancabur Volcano.
Return to Toconao for a relaxing dinner at a local café, sampling regional wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket to San Pedro | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel Room (per night) | $50-100 |
| 🛍️Local Handicrafts | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and unique geological formations.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and stargazing.
- Limited nightlife options for those seeking vibrant entertainment.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to remote location.
- Fewer dining options compared to larger cities.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Toconao
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning façade of this historic church against the backdrop of the Andes mountains.
A perfect spot for dramatic landscape photography with its vast white salt flats and stunning sunsets.
This gorge offers unique rock formations and vibrant colors, ideal for nature photography.
Food in Toconao
Toconao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory pastries filled with meats, cheese, or vegetables, often served as a snack or appetizer.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables, perfect for the cooler desert evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find handmade crafts and homemade food, including local delicacies and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common, and it is polite to greet with 'Hola' when entering shops or restaurants.
Show respect for local customs and the indigenous heritage, especially when visiting sacred sites.
Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and it is polite to try a little bit of everything offered.
Safety
Tipping in Toconao
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases and rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities. It can be crowded due to peak tourist season.
Mild weather makes it a great time for hiking and exploring, with fewer tourists around.
Cooler temperatures and occasional frost at night; perfect for stargazing and exploring the desert in comfort.
Wildflowers bloom, creating beautiful landscapes; pleasant temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventures.
Toconao at Night
Hiking in Toconao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike that offers panoramic views of the village and the surrounding desert landscape.
A scenic trail leading to unique rock formations, ideal for both photography and nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Toconao by plane.
Located approximately 100 kilometers from Toconao, this is the nearest airport, providing flights to and from Santiago and other Chilean cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Atacameños people have a rich cultural heritage and are integral to the local community and traditions.
Increasing numbers of tourists visit Toconao for its natural beauty and cultural significance, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Chile, and locals often gather to watch games or play in informal matches.
Adventure sports such as mountain biking and rock climbing are becoming popular due to the stunning natural landscapes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toconao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire as options may be limited.
While gluten-free options are not common, some dishes can be modified upon request.