El Tatio Geysers Tour from San Pedro de Atacama
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Don't miss this early morning tour to El Tatio geyser field, one of San Pedro de Atacama’s most popular surrounding attractions and one of the biggest geothermal fields in the world with more than 80 geyers. With a local guide, you'll arrive at El Tatio at sunrise, when the cold, high-altitude air creates a mystical landscape of steam. Then enjoy a light breakfast. End your tour with a stop in the small adobe village of Machuca.
Available options
El Tatio Geysers Tour from San Pedro de Atacama
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Drop off is at the city centre
Breakfast
Hotel pickup
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Your tour starts with hotel pickup by van before dawn — yep, that's early! — from San Pedro de Atacama. The hotel pickup starts from the Hotels located nearby San Pedro de Atacama urban zone. We will drive north of San Pedro de Atacama to El Tatio, an approximate 1.5- to 2-hour trip.
The El Tatio Geyser Field stands just over 14,000 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains of northern Chile and getting there is half the fun. You’ll travel up windy scenic mountain roads surrounded by snow-covered active and dormant volcanic peaks along the way. Magma beneath the surface acts to heat an underground source of water resulting in an explosive release of pressure.
2
Stop 2
Your arrival at the geyser field coincides with the rising sun, which gives the geysers their most spectacular appearance. In the cold, early morning air of sunrise, each geyser is topped with a white column of steam that disappears when the temperature warms up. You have about two hours to walk around the field, marveling at the geothermal wonders and taking pictures. Then enjoy a light breakfast that typically includes a ham and cheese sandwich, biscuit, fruit, juice, tea and coffee.
After about three hours total at El Tatio, head back toward San Pedro de Atacama, stopping in the village of Machuca.
3
You have about an hour here to explore the very tiny village (about 10 residents) at your leisure, checking out its wooden church, handful of adobe houses with thatch roofs, and artisan shop. If you wish, try a llama empanada, the local specialty (own expense).
Finally, make the drive back to San Pedro de Atacama.
4
Finally, make the drive back to San Pedro de Atacama, where your tour ends with hotel drop-off around midday. Remember that this trip takes approximately 3 hours to get back to San Pedro de Atacama.
What's not included
Gratuities
Entrance fee to El Tatio geyser field
Food and drinks, unless specified
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
25 reviews
5★
12
4★
8
3★
1
2★
2
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.5
71 reviews
5★
52
4★
11
3★
5
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes including trekking pants and shoes, and a windbreaker or warm jacket
Note: Please bring cash to pay the entrance fees and any additional expenses
Note: El Tatio sits at an elevation of nearly 14,000 feet, which may cause altitude sickness for some; it is recommended that you drink plenty of hot tea or water prior to the tour and carry any necessary medication
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
Note: It is not recommended for children under 10 years old to use the pools due to the high water temperatures
Pick up is from 5:00 to 5:40 summer time and 04:30 to 05:10 winter time.
You must let us know if you have health problems, medication allergy or any problem that may affect physical performance during the tour
Important notes
Note: Remember that the Hotel pick up and drop off is included only on Hotels located nearby San Pedro de Atacama urban zone. If your Hotel is located on Ayllus far away from the downtown, please contact us as soon as you booked the tour.
About San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is a charming town in northern Chile, known as the gateway to the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. This unique destination offers stunning landscapes, ancient archaeological sites, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Valle de la Luna
Valle de la Luna is a surreal lunar-like landscape with sand dunes, rock formations, and salt formations. It's a must-visit for its stunning views and unique geological features.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Laguna Cejar
Laguna Cejar is a unique saltwater lagoon where you can float effortlessly due to its high salt content. It's a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
Nature
Half-day tour
Moderate (approximately $20-$30 for a guided tour)
Geysers del Tatio
Geysers del Tatio is a geothermal field with boiling hot springs and geysers. It's one of the highest geyser fields in the world and offers a unique experience.
Nature
Full-day tour
Moderate (approximately $50-$70 for a guided tour)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cazuela
A traditional Chilean stew made with meat, potatoes, corn, and pumpkin. It's a hearty and comforting dish perfect for the cool evenings in the desert.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian versions are available
Empanadas de Pino
A popular Chilean snack, these empanadas are filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and a hard-boiled egg.
Snack/Appetizer
Vegetarian and vegan options are available
Popular Activities
Sandboarding
Dune buggy rides
Hiking
Mountain biking
Hot springs
Yoga retreats
Meditation
Visit to the Atacama Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season)
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring the desert, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures during the day. Nights can be quite cold.
10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, Quechua (indigenous language)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (UTC-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Pedro de Atacama is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- El Loa Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama
By bus
San Pedro de Atacama Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses connect San Pedro de Atacama to nearby attractions like the Valle de la Luna and Laguna Cejar. They are affordable but not very frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Cascadas
Day trips
Puritama Hot Springs
20 km (12 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Half-day to full-day
Puritama Hot Springs offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a stunning desert setting. The natural hot springs are surrounded by beautiful rock formations and lush vegetation.
Rainbow Valley (Valle del Arcoiris)
100 km (62 miles) from San Pedro de Atacama • Full-day
Rainbow Valley is known for its colorful rock formations and stunning landscapes. It's a popular spot for hiking, photography, and exploring the unique geological features of the Atacama Desert.
Festivals
Atacama Desert Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Valle de la Luna at sunset for the best views and photography opportunities
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong desert sun
- Dress in layers to accommodate the significant temperature variations between day and night
- Respect the environment and follow the principles of responsible tourism
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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