The Early Years
2010Established in 2010, the Atacama Crossing is now 16 years old. From its first edition in San Pedro de Atacama, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Chile.
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Course & Elevation
A stunning desert marathon through the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth. Runners navigate salt flats, sand dunes, and rocky terrain while experiencing dramatic elevation changes and extreme aridity. The course showcases iconic desert formations including the Valley of the Moon and ancient altiplano vistas.
Surface: mixed Profile: Rolling
Weather
Temperature 22°C
Humidity 35%
Rain Chance 5%
Clear skies with intense UV exposure and low humidity. Dramatic temperature swings between sun and shade. Minimal precipitation but wind can be significant.
The Race
San Pedro de Atacama
Race Lore
Running on Empty
The Atacama Crossing takes place in one of the most extreme environments in endurance sport. The desert landscape strips away everything except the essentials: one foot in front of the other, hydration discipline, and the stubborn refusal to stop. It's not just a race — it's a reckoning.
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Registration
Registration Opens March
Registration Closes August
Entry Cost 1850-2200 CLP
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth—some areas receive less than 1mm of rain per year
- ▸ Runners experience extreme UV exposure at high altitude with an incredibly thin atmosphere providing minimal protection
- ▸ The course traverses ancient salt flats that have remained virtually unchanged for millennia
- ▸ San Pedro de Atacama sits at 2,438 meters elevation, requiring acclimatization before racing
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