Taking a tour in the Norte Grande is a great idea, as traveling with a guide can help to ensure your safety, while also allowing you to see and discover places you might not have otherwise been aware of. Tours are especially recommended for travelers interested in high-risk adventure sports, as safety can be an issue.
When searching for an agency, hit up the larger, conveniently located cities. For excursions to Parque Nacional Lauca, Reserva Nacional Las Vicuñas or Parque Nacional Volcán Isluga, head to Arica or Putre—Putre being the cheaper option. Iquique is a good starting point for day tours around the city, trips to Pica, Pisagua, Mamiña or nearby geoglyph sites. Finally, San Pedro de Atacama is loaded with tourist agencies ready to guide visitors to the Geysers del Tatio, the Termas de Puritama, the Salar de Atacama, and other nearby lakes, mountains, salt flats and volcanoes.