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| San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide for backpackers |

San Pedro is certainly the place to visit for history buffs as the town is full of incredible archaelogical treasure. This is where the Jesuit priest, Alfred Le Paige of Belgium, worked for many years uncovering the secrets of the Atacameno Indians. The stunning museum he founded brings in people from all over the world to view it's many fascinating exhibits.
The scenery round the town is pretty sensational too, the Andes mountain range providing a fabulous backdrop to the town. Throughout the area are many ancient towns lost among the salt and the desert sand, some truly prehistoric and others reminders of the golden days of nitrate mining which was the main source of wealth in the area.
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DAILY BUDGET in SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA - Chile is not as cheap as a lot of South American countries but very basic room in a local house will cost US$15-25. Cheap meal's will come in at about US$5-12. If backpackers want to stay in half way decent lodgings and eat out they should expect to spend about US$40-60. |
Archaelogical museumThe internationally famous archaelogical museum is full of rich treasures and is a must for any visit to San Pedro, many scholars come to Chile with the sole aim of seeing it. There is an entrance fee but it well worth paying it.
Atacoma Salt Lake - Take an excursion to this large impressive salt lake, it is a truly amazing sight.
Toconao - Another trip worth making is to the town of Tocanao whish is rich in archaelogy treasures such as the legendary Comino del Inca. The view of the awe inspiring Lascar Volcano is magnificent.
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Cafe Etnico - Tocopillo. This is a funky cyber cafe very popular with the young locals who meet here to indulge themselves on the excellent, reasonably priced breakfasts and access the internet.
Export Cafe - Caracoles. Real coffee is served here, always a winner. Don't even think about carving your initials on the tables, they are handcrafted and fab.
Tierra - Caracoles This tiny cafe is a godsend for vegetarians as it serves excellent veggie food at cheap prices.
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Milagro - Caracoles A young, enthusiastic crowd pack into this bar nightly. Feel the buzz.
Florida - A completely different sort of bar, cheap (always a plus) and unpretentious with simple chilean decor and friendly locals.
Juanita - The Plaza. A fabulous place for people watching while sipping something cold and refreshing after the days exertions.
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