Tierra Atacama Desert Boutique Hotel

In the high altiplano of the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, the landscape is formed by languid rivers, green canyons, lakes, geysers, salt flats with flamingos, sand dunes and natural hot springs. In fact, visible from the hotel are at least eight volcanoes – two of which that are still active – with their summits reaching heights of almost 21,000 feet (6,000 m).

Given this setting, the Tierra Atacama Hotel and Spa's concept is one of an adventure-spa, believing that  its guests want to actively and adventurously experience the outdoors and then be welcomed back to the lodge with a range of relaxing alternative to choose from – anything from an afternoon nap to one of the many professional spa services offered.

Those wishing to do without the daily desert excursions can revel in the inner peace of the hotel... spending time in the spa, the swimming pool, the library or by stretching out on an outdoor bed, curling up with a book on the living room sofa, or closing their eyes in the privacy of their own room or terrace.

As for those guest rooms, all of the quarters at Tierra Atacama (with the exception of the Family Rooms) have private terraces with views of the Licancabur Volcano and overlook the gardens. The interiors of these rooms designed to reflect the local culture, with cow hides, handmade textiles and crafts having been used to furnish both these and the common areas. Indeed the entire hotel is decorated in a neo-minimalist style with elegant woods and subtle chocolate and sand tones.

One of the highlights at Tierra Atacama is its spa, with a steam bath, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and a wide variety of rejuvenating massages, facials, body wraps, scrubs and alternative therapies offered. Added to these are an indoor heated pool with water jets and outdoor pools with luxuriant chaise lounges -- perfect for relaxing with a book.

In addition to all the excellent services at the hotel, guests at Tierra Atacama can also partake in a variety of excursions in the surrounding Atacama region, from bird watching, wildlife tours, stargazing, walks through salt caves to dune surfing and volcano climbing.