San Pedro de Atacama is the name of a desert in northern Chile and also the name of a state. The town San Pedro means "Saint Peter." The intense sunlight and high temperatures make the arid, dusty desert landscape feel even more tangible. As it is a region where it rarely rains throughout the year, the Valley of the Moon (Luna Valley) remains preserved, known for its peculiar formations resembling the surface of the moon.
To take in the vast desert canyons and layered rock formations, I decided to walk along the dusty paths. In the distance, a Hyundai SUV from Korea sped by, kicking up a trail of dust. The scorching sun and dry air made the desert feel even more intense. Walking side by side with Jenny, Ellen, and Cahi, we sipped bottled water, trying to stay hydrated in the relentless heat.