Quebrada de Jerez
A tranquil desert oasis where lush greenery meets arid landscapes, offering stunning sunset views and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Quebrada de Jerez
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil desert oasis where lush greenery meets arid landscapes, offering stunning sunset views and a peaceful escape.
"A total gem that’s not touristy at all. Beautiful spot specially at sunset!!"
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is cash only! Have Chilean pesos ready to avoid any issues.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a peaceful and colorful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Desert Oasis
Entrance area
A surprising pocket of green where the desert landscape dramatically meets a lush valley and river.

Sunset Views
Viewpoint near parking
The golden hour paints the canyon walls in stunning hues, offering a tranquil and picturesque end to the day.

Picnic Spot by the River
Designated picnic area
Enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by nature, with the gentle sound of the river as your soundtrack.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King for Entry
Timing is Everything for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Atacama Desert, Chile
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is cash only! Have Chilean pesos ready to avoid any issues.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a peaceful and colorful experience.
San Pedro de Atacama 4-5 day Itinerary
My experience in San Pedro de Atacama - ups and downs
🚶♂️ Explore Cautiously
Trails can be unclear. Stick to marked areas or the viewpoint if unsure.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There's a lovely picnic area by the river, perfect for a quiet meal.
Reflections on a journey to the Atacama Desert (northern Chile)
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is cash only! Have Chilean pesos ready to avoid any issues.
🌅 Aim for Sunset
The views are spectacular at sunset, offering a peaceful and colorful experience.
🚶♂️ Explore Cautiously
Trails can be unclear. Stick to marked areas or the viewpoint if unsure.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There's a lovely picnic area by the river, perfect for a quiet meal.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even in the desert, it's important to drink plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Quebrada de Jerez is praised as a hidden gem and a peaceful oasis, offering a beautiful contrast to the surrounding desert. Visitors appreciate the low entrance fee and the serene atmosphere, especially around sunset. Some note that trails can be unclear and recommend sticking to marked areas.
"Going here because the ticket was included with Laguna Chaxa. Otherwise not worth stopping. We were to only one there. It was ok."
Spinning Duck
"Fine as a side trip from the lagoon. There's a nice area to picnic near the river."
Nathan Jones
"I love it! I've been here many times. It's always good to be back. The entrance fee is about 2.5 USD, there's a picnic area at the very beginning, no fire is allowed, there's a short trail but enough to enjoy this Oasis where the desert meets the valley."
Eric Schmidt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Quebrada de Jerez is located a short drive from San Pedro de Atacama. Many visitors access it by car, often as a stop on the way to or from Laguna Chaxa. If you don't have a rental car, consider joining a tour that includes this location or hiring a taxi. The drive itself is scenic, showcasing the stark desert beauty.
Public transport options directly to Quebrada de Jerez are limited. It's best accessed with a private vehicle (rental car or taxi) or as part of an organized tour. This allows for flexibility and easy access to the site.
The driving distance is approximately 30-40 kilometers (18-25 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama, taking about 30-40 minutes depending on road conditions and your starting point.
The roads leading to Quebrada de Jerez are generally well-maintained gravel or dirt roads, typical for the Atacama region. A 4WD vehicle is not strictly necessary for most visitors, but can be helpful. Drive cautiously and be aware of other vehicles.
Absolutely! Quebrada de Jerez is an excellent addition to a day trip exploring the Salar de Atacama region, often combined with visits to Laguna Chaxa and other nearby salt flats and lagoons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 2.5 USD or 2,500 CLP. It's important to note that this fee is cash only, so be sure to have Chilean pesos with you.
No, advance booking is not usually required. You can pay the entrance fee in cash at the site. However, if visiting as part of a combo ticket with Laguna Chaxa, ensure you understand the ticketing process for both.
Quebrada de Jerez typically closes around 6 PM. It's advisable to check current hours locally, especially if planning a late afternoon visit or aiming for sunset.
Yes, sometimes a visit to Quebrada de Jerez is included as part of a combo ticket with Laguna Chaxa. This can be a cost-effective way to see both sites.
The main restriction is that fires are not allowed in the picnic area. Otherwise, entry is straightforward with the payment of the fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Quebrada de Jerez offers a chance to explore a unique desert oasis. You can enjoy the scenic views from the parking area, walk along short trails, relax in the picnic area by the river, and appreciate the contrast between the arid desert and the lush vegetation. It's a peaceful spot for photography and quiet contemplation.
The trails at Quebrada de Jerez are not extensively marked, and some visitors have reported getting a bit lost. It's recommended to stick to the main viewpoint near the parking lot and the path leading to the river. Be cautious if venturing further.
As an oasis, Quebrada de Jerez supports more diverse flora and fauna than the surrounding desert. You might spot various bird species, insects, and small desert animals that are drawn to the water source.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscape, the contrast of green against desert, and the beautiful light, especially at sunset, make it a fantastic spot for photography. Capture the unique desert oasis scenery.
Yes, restrooms are available. Some visitors have noted that the restroom found on the way down to the creeks was clean, which is a welcome amenity in such a remote location.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services directly within Quebrada de Jerez. It's a natural site focused on experiencing the landscape.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. There is a designated picnic area by the river, making it an ideal spot for a packed lunch or snack.
The closest dining options are back in San Pedro de Atacama, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Plan to eat before or after your visit.
It's highly recommended to utilize the picnic area for a meal. It's a peaceful setting to enjoy your food surrounded by nature, especially if you're visiting during the day.
The only noted restriction is that fires are not allowed in the picnic area. Otherwise, you can bring and consume your own food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, particularly around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The warm light accentuates the desert landscape and the oasis.
The contrast between the arid desert and the lush green oasis is a key photographic element. The riverbanks, the viewpoint near the parking lot, and the unique plant life are all excellent subjects.
No special camera is required. A smartphone camera can capture stunning images, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more control over settings, especially for landscape and low-light photography.
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the desert meeting the oasis. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and vegetation. Be mindful of the sun's position for optimal lighting.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trails aren't extensively marked, keeping a close eye on children near the water is essential. The short, accessible paths near the parking lot and river are manageable for most kids. It's a good idea to bring snacks and plenty of water, as there are no facilities for purchasing food on-site. The low entrance fee makes it an affordable addition to a family's itinerary.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks for a picnic is a smart way to save money, as there are no dining options at the site. Visiting with a rental car can be cost-effective if you're splitting costs with others, or you can inquire about local taxis for a more budget-friendly ride than a full tour. It's a worthwhile stop that doesn't break the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Quebrada de Jerez
Visitors often remark on the surprising greenery and the peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the resilience of nature. The trails, though not always clearly marked, allow for exploration of this unique ecosystem. Remember to tread lightly and respect the natural environment during your visit.
For those interested in geology and ecology, Quebrada de Jerez offers a glimpse into how water shapes landscapes even in the driest parts of the world. It's a small but significant natural wonder that provides a refreshing break from the stark beauty of the desert.
Experiencing Quebrada de Jerez at Sunset
This time of day is perfect for a quiet picnic or simply sitting and absorbing the panoramic views. The changing colors of the sky and the lengthening shadows add a dramatic flair to the landscape. It's a moment of peace and natural spectacle that many find deeply rewarding.
Be sure to bring a jacket as temperatures can drop after sunset, and have your camera ready to capture the stunning hues. The combination of the unique oasis setting and the dramatic desert sunset makes this a truly memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit