Hostel Katarpe

The food was the main disappointment for us. We expected more from Tierra Atacama’s reputation, but many dishes tasted bland and average. We had more authentic Chilean flavours and better dinners elsewhere on our trip. The set menu didn’t offer much choice, and the all-day menu was mediocre too. We did love the hotel’s desert setting, its beautiful architecture and inviting feel. Our room was comfortable, nicely decorated and kept spotless. The tours were memorable, with engaging, knowledgeable guides. The facilities were excellent, although I wish the hot tub had been a little warmer. The service had some small but surprising missteps for a hotel of this caliber: welcome items showed up after starters, bread arrived late, and sparkling water was served when we already had still water. The staff themselves were kind, warm and charming, which we appreciated.

We spent four nights here, and my favorite excursion was Guatin valley. I also loved the spa. The changing menu has two options, a creative one and a classics menu with things like burgers and steak. Both were done at an incredibly high level, and we’ve eaten at plenty of Michelin and Top 50 restaurants. Head chef Daniele is clearly pushing for the best. The food and service at Tierra Atacama were unmatched, even compared with other high-end resorts we’ve stayed at. I honestly can’t understand the complaints about the food. World class.

Just perfect for a visit to Atacama. The staff were amazing, and the guides were awesome at helping plan each day and sharing the context and highlights of every trip. I’ll definitely look at the other hotels in this chain too!

The excursions really made the desert experience. Taito Geysers, the Salt Flats of Atacama (Chaxa Lagoon), and the high-altitude lakes at Piedras Rojas were stunning. The guides knew their stuff, and I especially recommend the hotel’s Nightly Stargaze under what felt like the cleanest sky on earth. My wife and I felt like we were in a movie, surrounded by beauty and supported by a great team. The staff were young, friendly, attentive, multilingual and well trained. We were also struck by how proud they are of Chile and how eager they are to share the country and desert with visitors. The hotel itself fits its surroundings so well, with a palette of colors in the rooms and common areas, and an extinct volcano always visible in the distance.