"HIKE GUATIN CACTUS" Tour

"HIKE GUATIN CACTUS" Tour

The Valley of the Cactus or Quebrada de Cardones, Guatín, unfolds on the land where the Purifica and Puritana rivers meet. As its pseudonym says, in its lands there is an abundance of Cactus or cardones, many of them centenary and with heights bordering 7 meters. Guatin, an old Atacameño hamlet, home to shepherds and small farmers. 35 kilometers from San Pedro de Atacama and 3,475 meters above sea level, inserted in a large stone ravine, you will find the Puritama Hot Springs. Word that in the indigenous language means “hot waters”. The sector is designed for family relaxation and has 8 pools of warm water that have a temperature between 25ºC and 30 ° C. The water has medicinal and therapeutic properties since it is nourished by the minerals that the Puritama River brings. Its waters are considered as Sulphated-Sodium Meso Thermal Waters, with a pH 7.09 neutral, its components include chlorine, sulfates, magnesium, sodium, lithium, potassium, calcium and boron.

Guatín Cactus Hike – San Pedro de Atacama. Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Atacama Desert with the Guatín Cactus Hike, a journey that combines striking landscapes, geological wonders, and the raw beauty of the Andean highlands. Located just outside San Pedro de Atacama, the Guatín Gorge—also known as the Valley of the Cacti—is a dramatic natural corridor carved by ancient volcanic activity and seasonal rivers. The hike follows a scenic trail along the riverbed, where towering giant cardón cacti, some of them centuries old, rise majestically against the backdrop of rugged mountains and volcanic rock formations. As we move deeper into the canyon, the contrast between the arid desert and the lush riparian vegetation creates a truly surprising and captivating environment.

Along the route, you will have the opportunity to observe native flora and fauna, learn about the geological history of the region, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The trail offers gentle climbs and open paths, making it accessible while still providing a sense of exploration and adventure. The fresh mountain air, combined with the silence and vastness of the landscape, creates a powerful connection with nature. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an active yet rewarding excursion, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The Guatín Cactus Hike offers a unique opportunity to discover one of the lesser-known treasures of San Pedro de Atacama, where adventure, tranquility, and the spirit of the desert come together in an extraordinary outdoor experience.

Itinerary

• We will be picked up from the hotel in San Pedro de Atacama and begin our journey toward the Guatín Ravine, located at an average altitude of 3,215 meters above sea level, following the scenic route that passes by the Tatio Geysers.
• As we venture into this stunning landscape, we will be surrounded by the striking contrast of red ravine walls against the clear blue sky. Along the way, we will encounter the region’s native flora, most notably the giant cardón cacti, which dominate the canyon. These extraordinary plants grow slowly but steadily, reaching 6 meters in height, with spines up to 30 cm long; some specimens can reach 70 cm in diameter over 70 years, a testament to the desert’s resilience and beauty.
• Our hike begins at Guatín, following the riverbed where we will discover abundant fox tail grasses (“colas de zorro”) interspersed with junquillos, delicate desert reeds. Along the way, we will also encounter unique succulents and desert plants, such as rica rica and pingo pingo, which are characteristic of this high-altitude desert ecosystem.
• Descending along the eastern bank of the river, the trail leads to a viewpoint offering a panoramic vista of the ravine and the surrounding landscape, with the Atacama Salt Flat shimmering in the distance. This moment provides an excellent opportunity to take in the grandeur of the desert and capture breathtaking photos.
• The hike continues until we reach our pickup point, where the vehicle will take us back to our accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama, concluding a memorable adventure immersed in the raw beauty of the Atacama Desert.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English.
• Entrance fees.
• Pick-up from your accommodation,
• Snack.
• Water.

Does not include

• Tips and gratuities.
• Professional guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.
• Other services not described in the program.

Notes:

• Level of difficulty: Moderate difficulty (uneven terrain).
• Minimum age required for the tour: 8 years old.
• The pickup and return times depend on the season and will be confirmed upon booking confirmation.