La Caleta (Pan de Azucar National Park)

In the Atacama Desert, there is a beachfront national park called Pan de Azucar. Though it's too little to qualify as a town, it's too picturesque to be left off this list. You may stay at Piqueros under a cabana with a view of the beach to the west and the arid grandeur of the Atacama for 3,500 pesos per night if you bring your tent.

Or, for even less money, stay at one of the busier, more raucous campsites like Piqueros Norte or La Caleta. The "town" of La Caleta in Pan de Azucar has two eateries and a mini-market where you may fill up on necessities. After you've got your fill of beach fun, take a boat tour to the island where 5,000 penguins have made their home for 5,000 pesos (about $9).

The boat approaches them enough to view endless rows of them, the young birds still plump with feathers, and the couples standing next to each other in the shade. For a breathtaking perspective of the desert plain sprawling out against the ocean, you may also trek up to the mirador.

Location: Antofagasta Region-Atacama Region