Where to go

Hotel Desertica

One of San Pedro’s best boutique hotels

Excellent Five stars from 14 votes
Hotel Desertica
Hotel Desertica

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Review

A former farm house and orchard, Hotel Desertica, along with Terrantai Lodge, is our pick of the hotels that do not offer the all-inclusive packages in San Pedro de Atacama. This 12-room property prides itself on sustainability and respect to the land & culture of the area. Using local materials to both renovate and decorate the former farmhouse into a stylish hotel, much of the original orchard has been maintained. Desertica’s eco-credentials are also strong, from the solar-panels providing their electricity to the raised walkways that prevent erosion to the soil so to maintain the traditional irrigation methods of the land. Not everyone wants or can afford the all-inclusive hotels, so Desertica is a great option…plus it is environmentally friendly!

Location

Hotel Desertica is in the Old Town centre of San Pedro, about a 5-minute walk to the main plaza. Being so central means there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, which is useful when considering the hotel only has a ‘café’ that serves breakfast and limited lunch/dinner options. There is onsite parking available and, if you are self-driving, the drive from Calama airport is approximately 1 ½ hours.

Layout

Nearly the entire property is a single-storey, with only the eating/bar area offering an (open-air) second floor. This is a great idea, as it allows guest to enjoy an al fresco bite or drink either in the shade or out in the sunshine. All the pathways that connect reception to the rooms, café and swimming pool are constructed from local stones, which prevents damage to the earth and flora. The swimming pool is surrounded by a sun terrace.

Rooms

In homage to the indigenous Atacameño (people of the Atacama), the rooms, or ‘Turi’, are modelled on native designs. From the outside, the bungalow-like structures are made of adobe walls with thatched roofs. Yet on the inside, the décor brings a tasteful touch of 21st century to the rooms. There are two categories – Standard and Superior – and all have private bathrooms, fireplace or heating, ceiling fan and organic bathroom amenities.

Features

The bar overlooks the picturesque swimming pool and sun terrace, all of which are very alluring! Hotel Desertica also has the option of a small menu of hot meals - Café Desertica is a great spot to grab a freshly made sandwich, pizza, salad or snack. Another service we really like is the complimentary use of mountain bikes. These are a great way to see San Pedro…and even parts of the Atacama Desert, if you are feeling fit!

A genuine boutique experience, with free bike hire.

The ceiling fans in the rooms are quite loud.

Our rating: 
4
User rating: 
5
Price: 
3

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