San Pedro de Atacama is one of the most expensive stops on a trip through Chile, mostly because the excursions that make it worth visiting, the geysers, the lagoons, the Moon Valley and the stargazing, are spread across a huge landscape and need a vehicle and a guide. That makes a low-priced bed a practical choice, and Rey Lagarto Hostel is aimed at backpackers, solo travellers and anyone who would rather spend on tours than on a room. Hostels in the village are generally friendly, relaxed places with shared lounges or courtyards, dormitory beds, a few private rooms and staff who know which tour companies are reliable. The social side is a real benefit here. It is easy to meet other travellers over breakfast or in the evening, share a rental car or a minibus, and compare notes on the best viewpoints and the coldest nights. Staying in the village also means you can walk to the plaza, the cafes and the tour offices, and wander back at night under a sky full of stars. Because bed types, bathrooms and services vary, check the current details when you book, including whether breakfast is included, whether there is heating and what the policy is on quiet hours.
Choosing a room
A shared dorm is the cheapest and most sociable option, while a private room costs more but gives better sleep before pre-dawn departures such as the Tatio geysers. Ask about the number of beds in a dorm, whether there are lockers, and whether linen and towels are provided. Desert nights are cold, often close to freezing in the colder months, so check that heating or enough blankets are available.
Getting around
The plaza and the main lanes are a short walk, bikes can be rented in the village for nearby sights, and tour operators commonly collect guests from hostels for excursions. The village is at roughly 2,400 metres, so spend your first day taking it easy, drinking plenty of water and avoiding heavy exertion.
The nearest airport is at Calama, roughly an hour and a half by road, and shared buses and transfers link it with the village, so confirm your options when you book. Who it suits: backpackers, solo travellers, students and couples on a budget who want to meet people and do not mind shared spaces.
Trade-offs
Expect simple furnishings, some noise and no resort-style extras such as a spa or an on-site restaurant. Keep valuables locked up, carry cash for small purchases, and bring a warm layer, a hat and strong sun protection. Book early for the high season from roughly December to March and around long weekends.
Why stay here
- ✓Dorm and private room options
- ✓Shared common areas
- ✓Tour booking assistance
- ✓Wi-Fi
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Walk to the plaza
- ✓Tours and bikes nearby
- ✓Breakfast available
Good questions
Are private rooms available?+
Hostels in the village commonly offer both dorms and private rooms. Check the room types when you book.
Can I meet people to share tours with?+
Often yes. Hostel common areas are a good place to meet other travellers and split the cost of excursions and transfers.
Are the nights cold?+
Yes, often close to freezing in the colder months. Check what heating or bedding is provided when you book.
