Kari Gorge
This excursion allows us to discover the fascinating mineral world of the Valley of the Moon. The area is renowned for its geological formations, high clay walls, caves, and spectacular salt, gypsum and clay formations. It’s also notable for its faults and bends, eroded by wind and water. Here, the silence is only interrupted by the crunch of salt underfoot.
Season: Year-round
Type of Excursion: Half-day hike
Difficulty: Moderate. This excursion can present difficulties for people prone to vertigo. A minimum level of physical aptitude is required to cross two rocky stretches, which involve climbing.
Altitude: 2,600 meters above sea level.
Distance: 4.5 km
Duration: Two hours
Environment: Valle de la Luna (“Valley of the Moon”), Salt Mountain Range
Itinerary: We depart by van from Casa Atacama, heading northeast until we reach the Kari Lookout (15 min). The excursion begins here, continuing along the Valley’s cornice before descending to the Kari Gorge, which we will follow until its end. There, a van awaits to take us back to Casa Atacama.
Description: The hike begins from the Kari Lookout, which offers a spectacular view of the Valley of the moon. We descend from the cornice to a sandy area, and cross a dry lake before entering the Kari Gorge, following the old course of the river. The path includes two rocky stretches (which were formerly waterfalls, now dry), where you’ll need to support yourself with your hands and feet.
Recommendations: Bring light clothing, a jacket, comfortable footwear for hiking, sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, and a backpack.
Noi Equipment: This excursion requires no special equipment.
Includes: A cooler (water and refreshments), trail mix.
Duration:
Distance and Altitude
Environment:
Valle de la Luna (Cordillera de la Sal)
Difficulty:
Media. Puede presentar dificultades para personas muy sensibles al vértigo. Requiere un mínimo de habilidad física para pasar dos tramos rocosos que necesitan escalada.
Excursion mode
Trekking
Transport mode
Caminata, Van
