Atacama Crossing - The Atacama Desert Race (Chile)

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Last Updated on December 29, 2022

The Atacama Crossing (Chile), is a 7 day, 250 km / 155 mile self-supported footrace located in the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world located in north of Chile.

Starting at 3,300 meters / 10,500 feet above sea level, the course takes competitors through canyons and valleys (including the rainbow coloured Arcoiris Valley, the Valley of Death and the Valley of the Moon), up old Inca roads, past salt lakes and small Chilean villages, and across sand dunes, salt flats and rivers, always surrounded by a range of stunning volcanoes including the iconic Licancabur at 5,920 meters / 19,420 feet.

Competitors will race more than 1 mile above sea level, covering the horizontal crossing of the country of Chile (250 kilometers / 150 miles).

Race Information

The Atacama Crossing is a multi-stage ultramarathon that is known for its challenging terrain and harsh conditions, and it attracts runners from around the world who are looking for a unique and challenging endurance event.

The Atacama Crossing is a self-supported race, which means that runners are responsible for carrying all of their own food, water, and equipment. The race covers a distance of approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) over the course of 7 days, and runners must navigate through a variety of terrain including sand dunes, salt flats, and rocky trails.

To participate in the Atacama Crossing, runners must meet certain eligibility requirements and be in good physical condition. The race organizers recommend that runners have previous experience in endurance events and be well-trained for the physical challenges of the race.

If you are interested in participating in the Atacama Crossing, you can find more information on the race website, including details on registration, training, and safety guidelines.

Atacama Crossing 2023

September 24th – September 30th, 2023

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile – REGISTRATION

The Atacama Crossing is a 7-day, 250 km / 155 mile footrace that takes place in the incredible Atacama Desert of Chile. Through the seven days, competitors traverse through salt flats, massive sand dunes, icy cold slot canyons, river crossings, and experience starry nights while in the foothills of the Andes mountains as they complete the 250-kilometer / 155-mile course. The race goes through the Salar de Atacama, Moon Valley and Valle de la Muerte, and finally ends in the Town Square of the adobe-like village of San Pedro de Atacama.

Directions

The best way to get to the host town is:

STEP 1: Fly into the Santiago International Airport (also known as the Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport or SCL) in Santiago, Chile

STEP 2: Take an internal flight to Calama Airport (also called El Loa International Airport or CJC).

STEP 3: Take a one-hour ride by bus or taxi from the airport to the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

Competitors arrive in San Pedro and go to the meeting point by 4pm to go to Camp 1 on September 23rd.

All stay overnight at Camp 1 for two nights before the race starts.

Volunteer training (all day)

Read also: Upcoming Desert Marathons 2023-2024

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