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A phenomenon found nowhere else on Earth: when rain falls on the world's driest desert, dormant seeds awaken and the arid plains explode into a carpet of purple, white and yellow flowers. It is unpredictable, fleeting and absolutely unforgettable.
The 'pata de guanaco', añañucas and garra de león — many of them found only in this part of the world.
Insects, lizards and birds return with the bloom, turning the desert into a living ecosystem for a few weeks.
The Llanos de Challe National Park is one of the best protected spots to admire the phenomenon up close.
Only in years with enough winter rain, usually between September and November. It does not happen every year — check the season's reports before traveling.
The blooms appear along Route 5 between Vallenar and Copiapó. Llanos de Challe NP is reached via Route C-470 from Huasco. A car is essential.
Combine the Flowering Desert with the coast of Huasco and the beaches of Atacama for an unforgettable spring trip.