“PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS + APERITIF” Tour
Puritama Hot Springs – An Oasis of Wellness in the Atacama Desert. Hidden within the rugged walls of the Puritama Canyon lies one of the Atacama Desert’s most serene treasures — the Puritama Hot Springs, a natural sanctuary of wellness and tranquility. Located just 30 kilometers north of San Pedro de Atacama, at an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level, this oasis emerges from the depths of the Andes Mountains, where the earth’s volcanic heart warms the underground waters to a soothing 30°C–33°C (86°F–91°F). The name Puritama, meaning “hot water” in the indigenous Kunza language, reflects the essence of this place: a refuge where mineral-rich waters, naturally infused with lithium, calcium, and other therapeutic elements, flow gently through the canyon, creating a sequence of crystal-clear pools nestled among volcanic rock formations.
Renowned for their healing properties, the waters of Puritama are said to relieve rheumatic pain, muscle tension, and stress, offering visitors a rejuvenating experience in complete harmony with nature. Elegant wooden walkways connect the pools, blending seamlessly with the landscape and leading to thoughtfully designed changing rooms and rest areas that preserve the tranquility of the environment. Immersed in the silence of the desert and surrounded by the grandeur of the Andes, the Puritama Hot Springs invite you to unwind, restore your senses, and reconnect with the elemental purity of the Earth — a rare and unforgettable moment of luxury in the heart of the Atacama.
Itinerary
- From San Pedro de Atacama, around 9:00 AM, we will head in the same direction that leads to the Tatio Geysers, where we find the beautiful thermal river called Puritama, located 30 km north of the town. Thanks to volcanic activity, its waters acquire temperature and flow underground until they emerge on the surface with medicinal properties, due to their richness in minerals and temperatures ranging between 30°C and 33°C. The water has a significant concentration of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and boron, all of which are revitalizing for the body and mind.
- We will enjoy the 8 natural thermal pools that flow among the rocks, creating pools around impressive archaeological sites, surrounded by vegetation.
- While enjoying the thermal bath, we will have the opportunity to relax and savor a delicious appetizer consisting of serrano ham, cheeses, and beverages to conclude our day of exploration.
- Return to the hotel (approx. 12:30 pm).
The tour includes
- Hotel pickup.
- Entrance fees for admission to Puritama Hot Springs.
- Towel service.
- Bilingual driver (English/Spanish).
- Water.
- Snack.
- Round-trip shared transportation.
The tour does not include
- Professional tour guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a tour guide in one of these languages, please request one in advance and be aware that there will be an additional charge.
- Extra meals and drinks.
- Tips for the tour guide and driver.
- Other expenses not mentioned in the program.
- Immigration fees at the border crossing.
- Travel medical insurance.
Difficulty level: Moderate (due to altitude)
Distance to be covered on the tour (round trip): 65 km / approximately 1.10 hours.
Important notes:
- The order of visitation to the sites may vary depending on weather conditions, physical conditions of the group, and other operational factors.
- The times are approximate and vary throughout the year depending on the season and sunrise time. The final schedule will be confirmed upon your arrival in San Pedro de Atacama.
- This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, and children under 10 years old.
- Please note that a specific pool or the number of people per pool cannot be guaranteed, as this depends on availability at the time of purchase.