Hard Road Atacama

The culture shock of entering San Pedro de Atacama in Northern Chile may not prepare you for the accommodations in the town. The main shopping streets in the town centre are narrow dirt tracks and not at all what you would expect from a tourist centre. So it seemed a bit strange that the Hard Road Hotel was also down a dirt track. You are left thinking you will be spending the night in a barn. In fact, past the entry gate, the hotel opens up into a more open and more modern (relatively) space where the rooms are located. Many are surrounding the pool, which when I was there in mid-April, wasn’t very inviting and had a bit of a smell. The room though was more than adequate – large enough and with a decent bathroom. The bed was a good size and comfortable. And the receptionist, though not speaking any English, was as helpful as she could be. Breakfast is included but since I was leaving the following morning before breakfast, I was given a packed ration the night before, consisting of a sandwich, some yoghurt, a muesli bar and a banana. There are no services at the hotel beyond breakfast. Even water must be taken from the breakfast area in glasses. There is no drink machine or any food available. For that you have to leave the hotel and walk about 400 metres to the town centre, where there are ample food and drink options. The town does feel a little seedy, so it may be an idea not to stay too long after sunset. Once you become accustomed to the whole wild west feel of the town, the Hard Road Hotel has a convenient location and sufficient positives to be considered if staying in San Pedro de Atacama. Check out my other reviews of places, hotels and experiences throughout South America.