The Flowering Desert is alive: Learn how to enjoy and take care of this unique and wonderful natural phenomenon in the Atacama Region

Did you know that every so often the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world, becomes filled with color? That’s right, because due to the rains that accumulate over the previous months in its northern zone, the phenomenon known as the Flowering Desert occurs. More than 200 species of plants with large extensions of vegetation and abundant flowers germinate and flourish in the Atacama Region, specifically between Chañaral de Aceituno in the south and Caldera in the north. 

This natural and unique phenomenon had not been seen since 2017. So, if you want to plan a visit, the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) recommends a series of good practices that you should follow to protect the flowers. That way, more people will be able to enjoy this beautiful spectacle now and in the years to come. Your best memory is taken with your phone and camera, not with your hands. 

Why does the Flowering Desert occur and in what areas of the country can it be observed? 

When it rains in the Atacama Desert, annual plants and other formations that have remained dormant for decades are activated in areas between the Arica and Parinacota and Coquimbo regions. However, the presence of more than 200 species of plants with large extensions of vegetation and abundant flowers occurs in the Atacama Region, between Chañaral de Aceituno in the south and Caldera in the north. 

When is the best time to observe this phenomenon? 

According to CONAF records for the Atacama Region, this 2022 the phenomenon will be seen from the second half of August in the municipalities of Freirina, Huasco and Vallenar, and from the first half of September in Caldera and Copiapó. 

This prediction is subject to environmental conditions, since the current average temperature, a little lower than normal, could slightly delay the opening of the flowers. Also, the life of the flowers could be reduced in the face of probable heat waves during the first month of spring, as they could wither more quickly. 

This information is important so that people can organize and plan their trip, thus avoiding an excess of people visiting the same place at the same time. 

The behavior of visitors is key to extending the growth and life of the Flowering Desert in the region; for example, if people cut or crush the flowers, the life of this phenomenon will be reduced. 

What are the most common flowers? 

More than 200 native plant species have been counted, some of which germinate from “dormant” seeds that await the rains to flower, and others that grow from bulbs or tubers. 

The most common flowers to see on the inland plains of Vallenar and Copiapó are the rock purslane and Chilean bell flower, which can extend for kilometers between plains and sandy mountains, accompanied by the evening primrose. 

The blooms on the coastal mountains are now very different, and the landscapes are painted with the diverse colors of the rock purslane, Chilean bell flower, Inca lily, Peruvian lily, Chilean brittlebush, evening primrose, glory of the sun and Ravenna, the queen of the flowers, which can only be seen in a small coastal stretch between the Carrizal ravine to the south and the Tototal ravine to the north. 

Do you want to learn about the flowers of Huasco in the Atacama Region? Download the digital book Expresiones del Desierto Florido (Expressions of the Flowering Desert). 

What are the threats that could deteriorate or shorten this phenomenon? How can we care for it? 

Ten commandments for the good visitor: 

• Use established vehicle tracks and do not take your vehicle off-road. Use only footpaths and marked trails when walking. 
• Stop and park only in authorized and safe places. Drive carefully. 
• Do not step on the plants and do not handle or cut the flowers, nor collect seeds or bulbs; they will only grow in their natural environment. 
• Do not take pets, as they disturb the habitat of native flora and fauna species. And REMEMBER, pets are prohibited inside protected wild areas (Llanos de Challe National Park, Pan de Azúcar National Park and Nevado de Tres Cruces National Park in the Atacama Region). 
• Respect wildlife, do not feed wild animals, do not make excessive noise, and do not listen to loud music; listen to the sound of nature. 
• Take your garbage with you and thrown it away in authorized places. 
• Mutual respect among visitors is essential to enjoy the experience that the desert offers. 
• Remember to follow COVID-19 self-care measures: wash your hands well, maintain social distancing and use a face mask when necessary. 
• Always choose tourist services registered with SERNATUR to discover the Flowering Desert. Support the local economy. 
• If you want to report damages to our natural heritage, call the investigator of crimes against the environment and cultural heritage (BIDEMA) on134 and/or 52 2540845, or go to the nearest local police court. 

Why is it recommended that you DO NOT take pets to the Flowering Desert? 

Cats and dogs are a THREAT to the native fauna and, therefore, to the Flowering Desert. Why? Because pets can transmit diseases or attack native fauna (even if they have a collar or are vaccinated), which can cause death. 

The flowers and plants of the desert attract guanacos, foxes, reptiles, birds, and other native animals, which feed on the flowers. This contact between flowers and native animals is key to the continued survival of the Flowering Desert, as it facilitates the transfer of seeds and germination in other areas. That is why the guanaco is considered the gardener of the Flowering Desert. 

Doubts or queries? 

Send an email to: atacama.oirs@conaf.cl or follow CONAF on social networks. 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/conaf_minagri 

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