Explora en Atacama Comfort and exploration in the driest desert on earth Explorations & activities Casa del Agua - Tturi Puri June 9, 2002 article by Amanda Jones in L.A. Times

	explora: the art of travel Their philosophy, in their own words: We open privileged natural territories. We have the necessary training to organize explorations, with a spirit to adventure and attention to security. Our hotels are sophisticated to assure the enjoyment of the pleasures of life. For us, the world is still a pleasant place, with magic and mystery.

Explora in Atacama is the new sister of well known and successful Explora en Patagonia. It faithfully carries forward the concept of comfort amidst adventure and the remote.

Located on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama in the neighborhood of Ayllu de Larache, an hour's drive from Calama. It sits on 42 acres, formed by 20 still intact small properties. It has 50 rooms aligned along a huge patio, with corridors to the main building.

Each room is 355 square feet, and all rooms are the same size with the same amenities. There is a small sitting area with table and chairs; a wall length wooden double shelf with ample "plop it there" space, and excellent reading lights over each bed. The bathroom is comprised of two areas, with the sink and ample counter space separated from a separate room with the jacuzzi tub and a large "rain" showerhead and a wall heater. Each room has phones with national and international direct dial system. They are ample sized, cozy & comfortable.

The hotel sprawls, with spacious airey bar-lounge and a series of "living rooms" each with over-stuffed couches and chairs fronting a fireplace. Atacama artifacts and art decorate the public areas. There is a game room equipped with videos, laser discs and Karaoke, and a roof-top "observatory" with telescope for night sky gazing. Verandahs and outdoor sitting areas are abundant, and there are four outdoor connected pools. There is a gift shop, library, sauna and massage services, a meeting room, chapel, laundry service and horse stables.

There is also a spa - Casa del Agua or Tturi Puri.