Our South American adventure continued down the Pacific coast back into Chile. The desert region of San Pedro de Atacama is known worldwide for its favorable conditions for stargazing. Remoteness, high altitude, low humidity, and lack of clouds combine to form the most ideal setting for an unobstructed view of the night sky.

My heart was set on capturing plenty of long exposure star photos every night. Instead, we were treated to the rare spectacle of unusually cloudy evenings.

A dynamic kaleidoscope of psychedelic painting

As if the arid air was unsure of how to handle moisture, the sunset transformed the stratosphere into an electric ocean.

Even heavy-handed editing can’t compare to the real thing.

Star struck

When the clouds did break, the Milky Way did not disappoint.

Also, big shout out to our gracious host, Javiera. Her place is awesome and she’s probably the best AirBnB host I’ve ever had. If you’re visiting San Pedro de Atacama, give her place a look!