World's Driest Desert

Chile

Duration 9/10 days

Suggested group size 12 - 20 students / 2 Envoys Field Staff

Suggested ages 14 - 18

Experience Astronomy
Mining & Conservation

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Understanding Our Shared Future in the World’s Driest Desert

Chile I

Chile, the world's longest country, boasts diverse landscapes from the Atacama Desert to Patagonian glaciers. Santiago, its capital, is a fully developed city with industry, universities, and cultural hubs. However, it grapples with generational trauma from the 1980s dictatorship, indigenous sovereignty, economic stability, and climate change impacts. In this study abroad travel experience, students gain a unique insight into Chile's beauty and complexity.

“Where the Andes stand as nature's fortress, and the Pacific waves echo tales of resilience, is a land where adventure meets poetic landscapes.“

“Chile protects the quiet Atacama, keeping its ancient secrets safe in the desert sands, a promise to care for nature's timeless wonders.“

Impact Statement Everywhere we go, we carry a promise – to engage with respect, act with purpose, and leave a positive imprint. As envoys of our journey is more than travel; Our footprint is light, but our impact is profound, creating bridges of cooperation and mutual growth across the globe.

Day 1

Upon arrival, students are greeted by Envoys educators, transfer to their accommodations, receive a safety briefing and a group building activity. From there, we head out to explore the surrounding area and have a welcome meal together, sampling a Chilean tradition.

Day 2

We navigate Santiago's extensive subway system, exploring Bella Vista, Cerro San Cristobal, the cathedral, Plaza de Armas, and iconic landmarks. In the afternoon, we reflect on Chile's political history and delve into literature, starting with Isabel Allende's works.

Day 3

We start with a tone-setting exercise to delve into Chile's 1970s-1990s dictatorship. Visiting the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, we explore lived history. In the afternoon, we climb Cerro Santa Lucia, discussing its significance and Santiago's original design. Finally, dinner in Lastarria.

Day 4

On the fourth day, we fly to Antofagasta. After settling in, we have lunch and explore the area. In the afternoon, we meet with a social impact organization, Fundación Minera Escondida, gaining insights into the mining industry's influence. Dinner precedes our visit to a copper mine the next day.

Day 5

On our fifth day, we leave our hotel in Antofogasta for San Pedro de Atacama. On the way, we visit one of the largest copper mines in northern Chile for a tour and overview of how copper is extracted from the earth here.

Day 6

Day 7

We wake early for a bus trip to El Tatio in the desert to witness natural fumaroles. At 4,200 meters above sea level, we observe endemic wildlife and enjoy breakfast. After sunrise, we relax in the hot springs. Returning to San Pedro, the afternoon offers free time for town exploration and shopping.

Day 8

We visit the ancient indigenous fortress Pukará de Quitor, explore the site, engage in a mental imagery exercise, and learn about life in the 1300s. We visit the Yerbas Buenas Petroglyphs to learn about ancient desert life. Students reflect on their transformative experience in a closing workshop.

Day 9

On the morning of our 10th day, we return via private bus to Antofagasta and board flights back to the capital city of Santiago. Depending on flight ability, students either depart on an overnight flight back home, or spend one final night in Santiago before departing the next day.

Highlights

Lenses of Inquiry

Environmental Protection and Stewardship

Discover Chile's ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental balance. Analyze cultural and historical influences on environmental matter, emphasizing community and indigenous roles in conservation. The program instills a deep appreciation for environmental protection, stewardship, collaboration.

Youth Leadership

Explore youth activism and its impact on social and political change, analyzing how pop culture reflects reactions to societal challenges and future aspirations. Chilean youth activism's global success in 2016, securing universal education rights through public protests, is a notable highlight.

Urban vs Rural

In Chile, urban centers thrive with modern infrastructure and job opportunities, while rural areas have limited access to healthcare and education, leading to migration. Government initiatives invest in rural development to bridge this gap, aiming for a more inclusive and balanced national landscape