If you have clients seeking exquisite hotel accommodations in South America, now they have a compelling option to consider: Tierra Atacama in northern Chile has reopened as of early April following a year-long, $20 million transformation aimed at redefining high-end lodging in the region.
The property, located in the Altiplano desert town of San Pedro de Atacama, is part of the Baillie Lodges collection and now sets a new benchmark for immersive, culturally rooted experiences in Chile.
The extensive renovation project—led by Tierra Hotels founder Miguel Purcell—preserves the lodge’s historical charm while upgrading the guest experience in accommodations, design, dining, and wellness.
With a backdrop of panoramic views of the Licancabur Volcano and the Andes, the property’s new floor-to-ceiling windows and updated architectural flow help guests feel immersed in the beauty of the Atacama Desert.
Upgrades & More
A key change for travel advisors to note: the suite count has been reduced from 32 to 28, with four new premium suites featuring private plunge pools, exclusive-use vehicles and dedicated guides. These upgrades offer an added layer of privacy and bespoke service.
In the newly enhanced common areas, local materials and traditional craftsmanship are on display. More than 40 Chilean artists contributed custom-made pieces, and local travertine marble sourced from Calama adds depth to the guest lounges. Interiors were refreshed by Carolina Delpiano, a longtime collaborator with Tierra Hotels.
Culinary experiences have also evolved. An expanded open-kitchen concept invites interaction between chefs and guests, while new open-grill areas and a dedicated wine cellar spotlight regional flavors and top Chilean wines.
Wellness has not been overlooked. The reimagined Uma Spa now features a double treatment room for couples and maintains its holistic desert-inspired offerings. Outside, a new sunken lounge space gives guests a relaxed setting to stargaze.
For travel advisors focused on sustainable luxury, Tierra Atacama’s updates reflect a strong commitment to the environment and the local community. Many design elements incorporate native vegetation and traditional adobe structures, with input from noted Chilean architect Matias Gonzalez and landscape architect Teresa Moller. The lodge also sourced furnishings and labor locally to ensure economic benefit to the surrounding area.
As travelers increasingly seek meaningful, place-based experiences, Tierra Atacama’s refreshed look and enhanced service offerings make it a standout recommendation for clients exploring South America.
For more information, visit tierraatacama.com.
