"TATIO GEYSERS + PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS" PREMIUM Tour

"TATIO GEYSERS + PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS" PREMIUM Tour

TATIO GEYSERS & PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA, CHILE. Discover two of the Atacama Desert's most extraordinary natural attractions in a single unforgettable day. This exceptional excursion combines the breathtaking geothermal spectacle of the El Tatio Geysers with the soothing thermal waters of the renowned Puritama Hot Springs, offering the perfect balance of adventure, spectacular scenery, and relaxation in one of the world's most remarkable desert landscapes. Your journey begins long before sunrise as you depart from San Pedro de Atacama and ascend into the majestic Chilean Altiplano. Traveling through silent valleys beneath a sky filled with stars, you'll arrive at El Tatio, the largest geothermal field in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the highest on Earth, located at approximately 4,320 meters (14,170 feet) above sea level.

The early morning is the ideal time to experience this extraordinary natural phenomenon. As freezing temperatures meet the intense underground geothermal activity, dozens of geysers release towering columns of steam that rise dramatically into the crisp mountain air. Illuminated by the first golden rays of sunlight, the entire geothermal field transforms into an unforgettable landscape of vapor, color, and volcanic beauty. As you explore the extensive network of geysers, steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and boiling thermal springs, your guide will explain the fascinating geological forces that continue to shape this remarkable region. The surrounding high-altitude plains are also home to an abundance of native wildlife, including vicuñas, vizcachas, llamas, Andean foxes, and numerous bird species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.

Following your visit to El Tatio, the adventure takes a more tranquil turn as you descend toward the spectacular Puritama Hot Springs, one of northern Chile's most beautiful natural spas. Hidden within a scenic canyon surrounded by native vegetation, Puritama offers a completely different perspective of the Atacama Desert, where crystal-clear mountain waters create a peaceful oasis amid the surrounding arid landscapes. The thermal waters originate deep within the Andes Mountains and emerge naturally at temperatures ranging between 20°C and 33°C (68°F–91°F) throughout the year. Rich in naturally occurring minerals, these waters have long been appreciated for their relaxing and restorative qualities.

Visitors can unwind in a series of beautifully designed natural pools connected by wooden walkways that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The gentle sound of flowing water, the impressive canyon scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere make Puritama the perfect place to relax after the excitement and high-altitude adventure of El Tatio. Beyond the thermal pools themselves, the reserve offers exceptional natural beauty, with native plants, mountain streams, and dramatic rock formations creating an idyllic setting for relaxation, photography, and quiet contemplation.

Throughout the day, this excursion showcases the remarkable diversity of the Atacama Desert—from one of the world's most active geothermal landscapes to one of its most serene natural sanctuaries. It is an experience that perfectly combines geology, wildlife, spectacular scenery, and personal well-being. Whether you seek breathtaking natural wonders, unforgettable photography opportunities, fascinating volcanic landscapes, or simply the chance to relax in warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by magnificent Andean scenery, the El Tatio Geysers & Puritama Hot Springs excursion promises an exceptional journey through two of the most iconic destinations in northern Chile.

Itinerary

• Experience one of the most extraordinary mornings of your journey through northern Chile with an unforgettable excursion to the spectacular El Tatio Geysers, one of the world's highest and most impressive geothermal fields. Situated at more than 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level in the heart of the Chilean Altiplano, this remarkable natural wonder offers an unforgettable encounter with the raw energy of the Earth.
• Your adventure begins well before dawn as you leave San Pedro de Atacama and travel across the silent desert beneath a sky filled with countless stars. As the first light of day approaches, you'll arrive at El Tatio just in time to witness its most spectacular moment. The freezing morning temperatures cause the geysers to produce enormous columns of steam that rise dramatically into the crisp mountain air, creating an unforgettable scene illuminated by the golden colors of sunrise.
• Accompanied by your guide, you'll explore the extensive geothermal field while learning about the fascinating volcanic activity that powers its geysers, steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and boiling hot springs. Every corner of the site reveals another extraordinary natural phenomenon, offering countless opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs of one of South America's most iconic landscapes.
• After visiting the main geothermal area, the journey continues to the tranquility of the Puritama Hot Springs, one of the Atacama Desert's most relaxing natural retreats. Nestled within a beautiful mountain canyon, these geothermal pools provide the perfect setting to unwind while surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery and the peaceful sounds of flowing spring water.
• Fed by naturally heated volcanic springs, the pools maintain comfortable temperatures ranging from approximately 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) throughout the year, offering an ideal place to relax after exploring the region's spectacular landscapes.
• The excursion is available in either the morning or afternoon, depending on availability and your preferred schedule. The thermal complex features seven natural pools, all connected by elevated wooden walkways that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. Visitors can also enjoy convenient on-site facilities, including changing rooms, restrooms, and additional services such as a café and internet access, all designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
• Whether you are seeking relaxation, wellness, or simply a peaceful escape in one of the world's most extraordinary desert landscapes, the Puritama Hot Springs offer an unforgettable experience where nature, comfort, and serenity come together in perfect balance.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English.
• Pick-up from your accommodation,
• The El Tatio Geysers and Puritama Hot Springs entrance fee.
• Breakfast.

Note: Our PREMIUM collective excursion service provides personalized attention and the expertise of highly experienced tour guides, designed for groups from 1 up to a maximum of 9 passengers. This tour operates daily with a minimum of 2 passengers.

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.

Estimated Schedule:

• Pick-up: Between 5:00 AM - 5:30 AM from accommodations located within the urban area of San Pedro de Atacama.
• Estimated Return: Approximately 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, subject to weather conditions, road conditions, visit durations, and daily operational coordination.
• Approximate Duration: 7.00 hours - 8.00 hours.

Transportation available for this excursion:

• 1 to 4 passengers: Toyota Hiace, Toyota 4Runner, or Toyota Hilux.
• 5 to 7 passengers: Toyota Hiace or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
• 8 to 12 passengers: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. (Shared services accommodate a maximum of 9 passengers.)

Availability:

This excursion does not operate with daily departures, as tour availability depends on several factors, including seasonal weather conditions, actual availability and minimum passenger requirements.

• December 25 and January 1: The excursion does not operate due to national holidays.

Reservation Deadline:

• We strongly recommend booking this excursion as early as possible. Ideally, reservations should be confirmed at least 10 days prior to the scheduled departure date, with no further reconfirmation required.
• As the operation of this excursion is subject to daily availability and operational conditions, bookings made less than 10 days before departure will be subject to confirmation. In such cases, the local operator reserves the right to decline the reservation if the minimum number of participants required to operate the excursion is not met.

Important Note:

Our agency strongly recommends that passengers follow an appropriate sightseeing schedule based on altitude levels. This gradual acclimatization helps the body adapt more comfortably to the region’s elevation and significantly reduces the risk of altitude-related discomfort during the trip. We recommend the following:

• High-altitude excursions should be scheduled from the second day of your stay onward. Our suggested order is: Piedras Rojas & Altiplanic Lagoons first, followed by El Tatio Geysers, and finally the Salt Flats Route, which reaches the highest elevations.
• For passengers continuing their journey to Uyuni, we strongly recommend completing at least two high-altitude excursions in San Pedro de Atacama before traveling to Bolivia in order to facilitate proper acclimatization.
• For volcano ascents, we recommend a minimum of three full days of acclimatization in San Pedro de Atacama. Guests should ideally complete the region’s higher-altitude excursions before attempting trekking activities such as Cerro Toco or Láskar Volcano.

Following these recommendations will help ensure a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable experience while exploring the Atacama Desert and the surrounding Altiplano region.

Notes:

• Level of difficulty: LOW.
• Maximum elevation during the excursion: 4,200 m.a.s.l. (meters above sea level).
• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Basic fitness level is sufficient. No trekking experience required. Suitable for most active travelers.
• Recommended minimum age: There is no official regulation that prohibits or restricts minors from participating in this excursion. However, our agency does not recommend the participation of infants or young children due to the long travel distances, the nature of the terrain, the desert's weather conditions, and the limited access to medical facilities, as the nearest hospital is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from San Pedro de Atacama.
• Children's rates: No special child fare applies. Under Chilean law, all minors must travel using an approved child restraint system or safety seat, occupying an individual seat inside the vehicle. Therefore, all children are charged the full adult fare.
• The activity takes place in a remote area with no shelter or restroom facilities available. Weather conditions may change rapidly, and stop durations may vary accordingly.
• Excursion days and schedules may vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and the groups forming.
• The pickup and return times depend on the season and will be confirmed upon booking confirmation.