Samsara suspends Flowering Desert festival amid controversy

The production company behind Samsara has suspended the originally announced date for an event promoted as the ‘Official Festival of the Flowering Desert’ (Desierto Florido). The decision follows public criticism regarding the event's location, necessary permits, and the unauthorized use of institutional logos.

Organizers clarified that the event was intended to be a multi-activity experience—including music, astronomy, yoga, and a pisco tour—rather than solely a 12-hour electronic music party. They emphasized that the activities would take place within a private, delimited area in Chehueque on land belonging to the Jahir Saba Distillery, and not on protected lands or areas managed by CONAF.

Samsara also addressed the controversy surrounding the use of logos from the Atacama Regional Government and other institutions. The company admitted to a ‘communicational error’ by releasing promotional material prematurely that included these logos before formal backing was secured. The Atacama Regional Government had previously denied any involvement, sponsorship, or consultation regarding the event.