
The Amphitheater and the Great Dune (Gran Duna), located in the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, are interesting for a number of reasons:
Otherworldly Landscape: The Atacama Desert is one of the driest non-polar deserts in the world, and the Moon Valley is a particularly dramatic part of it. Wind erosion has sculpted the valley into strange and beautiful formations, with towering sand dunes, deep canyons, and colorful rock strata. The Amphitheater, a massive concave wall, and the Gran Duna, a towering dune reaching over 1,100 feet (340 meters) tall, are some of the most impressive sights in the valley.
Unique geological formations: The Amphitheater and the Gran Duna are formed from layers of sediment that have been compressed and uplifted over millions of years. The erosion has exposed these layers, creating a banded effect that is particularly striking in the Amphitheater. The wind has also sculpted the dunes into constantly changing shapes, making each visit to the Moon Valley unique.
Stargazing: Due to its high altitude, dry climate, and lack of light pollution, the Atacama Desert is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The Moon Valley is a particularly good spot, as there are no trees or other obstructions to block the view of the night sky.
Activities: Visitors can hike to the top of the Gran Duna for stunning views of the surrounding desert. They can also explore the Amphitheater on foot, or take a sandboarding or sandboarding tour down the slopes of the dunes.
If you’re looking for a place to experience a truly otherworldly landscape, the Moon Valley, the Amphitheater, and the Gran Duna are definitely worth a visit.
Posted by ER’s Eyes – Our planet is so beautiful. on 2019-02-17 21:52:07
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