The Atacama desert, Chile

Behavior in the desert

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Precautions in the desert:

Only use signposted, developed paths. It's better to prefer frequent roads. If possible, travel in two vehicles. Inform yourself about the vehicle's condition (reserve tires, cooling water, brake fluid, etc.).
Communicate the itinerary with your hotel, police, or friends and arrange a time of return.
Jeeps or pickups (camionetas) are a prerequisite in the areas of the cordillera.
Always provide a sufficient amount of drinking water (min. 3 liters per person per day and several canisters of tap water) and food; it is recommended to take more than enough to be supplied in case of a car breakdown or an accident.
Observe the weather and advise the police and the national park guards.
Driving on gravel roads at a reasonable speed, always be prepared for unforeseeable situations (erosion grooves, large stones, wooden parts, etc.).

The high solar radiation always wears a hat and sunglasses and uses a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor.

At altitudes above 3000 m, think of the lack of oxygen. If possible, travel in stages at high altitudes to get used to the decreasing oxygen content of the breathing air. Do not go up from 0 m to 4500 m in one day. Take into account breaks during startup and shutdown.
At higher altitudes, there is almost always severe night frost (-15°C): warm clothing, a good tent, and good sleeping bags are essential. Therefore, think of antifreeze protection for the radiator of the car.

The wildlife mustn't be deliberately disturbed, that no rubbish is left lying around and don't pluck plants.

The Atacama Desert is generally a peaceful and safe excursion area. There are no dangerous animals or other problems except for one exception. Only in some areas should you be aware of a bug (Vinchuca). Some Vinchucas could be carriers of the Chagas disease. But the Vinchuca bug does not live in all areas, not all are infected, and it is relatively large. Usually, there are no problems, but for security reasons, the tent should not provide access to the bug. (See photo and info about the Vinchuca)

All persons should follow this advice, but on the other hand, a trip to the high cordillera is not an incalculable risk; for many people, these roads are the usual way to work (gold and copper mines, road construction, etc.).