The remote Atacama Desert offers two outstanding thermal experiences worth your time and money. The peaceful Puritama Hot Springs, nestled in the Andes, provide eight natural pools of crystal-clear 33°C (91°F) water. The more dramatic Tatio Geysers, while requiring a pre-dawn departure, reward visitors with spectacular steam displays and a chance to soak in natural thermal pools at 4,320 meters above sea level.
I especially love the 4-hour Puritama morning tours – they avoid the crowds and include comfortable transportation from town. For Tatio, the sunrise tours with breakfast are your best bet, combining the day’s most dramatic geyser activity with a hot meal in the world’s highest geyser field.
Check out our favorite thermal tours in the Atacama:
Key Points
- Puritama Hot Springs offers a serene outdoor experience with thermal pools and Andean landscape, accommodating up to 10 travelers.
- Guided tours to the Tatio Geyser provide early morning access and a breakfast stop, though not recommended for pregnant or mobility-limited travelers.
- Puritama Hot Springs 4-hour tour from San Pedro de Atacama includes lunch and a personalized experience for up to 15 travelers.
- Hassle-free transfer to Puritama Hot Springs with multilingual support, air-conditioned vehicle, and lunch, but not wheelchair accessible.
- The Puritama Hot Spring Experience features 8 thermal pools maintained at 28°C, with pickup from San Pedro de Atacama, but not suitable for certain health conditions.
Puritama Hot Springs
The Puritama Hot Springs are located in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile and offer a unique geothermal experience amidst the breathtaking Atacama Desert landscape.
Operated by Viajando Comigo, this tour allows a maximum of 10 travelers to enjoy the natural hot springs at a rating of 4.4 out of 26 reviews. Priced from $98.09 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, and a bilingual guide.
The tour provides pickup options from your hotel or the meeting point in Caracoles, San Pedro de Atacama. With morning pickups and afternoon meetings at the agency, the activity ends back at the original meeting point.
While the hot springs aren’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, including infants who must sit on laps. With a Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, the Puritama Hot Springs tour is a must-visit experience in San Pedro de Atacama.
Read our full review: Puritama Hot Springs Review
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Guided Visit to Tatio Geyser With Geyser Blanco Hot Springs
Guided tours to the Tatio Geyser in San Pedro de Atacama allow you to witness the region’s most impressive geothermal display. These 26 highly-rated tours, with a 96% traveler recommendation, take you to the stunning Tatio Geyser field and include a breakfast stop at Geyser Blanco.
The tour pickup begins early, at 4:30 AM in summer and 5:00 AM in winter, so you can see the geysers at their most active. While the tour duration includes travel time, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore the unique landscape and marvel at the steaming fumaroles and bubbling pools.
The tour caters to various dietary needs, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options upon request. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with limited mobility, as a moderate fitness level is required.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, and with an overall 5-star rating from 26 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into San Pedro de Atacama’s geothermal wonders.
Read our full review: Guided Visit to Tatio Geyser With Geyser Blanco Hot Springs Review
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4-Hour Puritama Hot Springs Tour With Pick up in Atacama
Explore the tranquil Puritama Hot Springs on this 4-hour tour from San Pedro de Atacama. Operated by Ruta Chile, this tour takes you to the natural wonder of the Puritama Hot Springs, located in the heart of the Atacama Desert.
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 15 travelers, to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience.
Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the thermal waters of the Puritama Hot Springs, surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape. Lunch is provided, allowing you to refuel after your relaxing soak.
This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Most travelers can, however, participate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, you can plan your visit with confidence.
The Puritama Hot Springs tour earns a 3.0 overall rating based on 2 reviews, providing a glimpse into the thermal wonders of the Atacama Desert.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Puritama Hot Springs Tour With Pick up in Atacama Review
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Transfer to the Puritama Hot Springs
How does the transfer to the Puritama Hot Springs work? The tour is operated by GuiasToursSan Pedro de Atacama in Chile.
The activity includes a transfer to the Puritama Hot Springs, with languages offered in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. The maximum number of participants is 15 travelers, and the price starts from €58.62 per person.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pick-up and return in the urban area, lunch, and travel insurance. Admission to the Puritama hot springs is also included, which costs CLP$30,000.
Pickups are from selected hotel locations, starting at 7:30 am, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
The transfer isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate in this experience.
The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility to reserve and pay later.
Read our full review: Transfer to the Puritama Hot Springs Review
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From San Pedro De Atacama: Puritama Hot Spring Experience
Set out on a captivating journey to the Puritama Hot Springs, located just 30 km from the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama. This 5-hour experience promises to immerse you in the natural wonder of 8 different hot water pools, fed by the nearby Tatio Geysers and maintained at a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius.
Priced from $90 per person, this experience offers a hassle-free reservation process with no upfront payment required. Cancellation is also flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Pickup is included, although it doesn’t operate outside urban San Pedro de Atacama. Relax in the warm, soothing waters while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Andes.
The facilities are equipped with bathrooms, dressing rooms, and tables for your comfort. However, please note that this experience may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments or children under 6 years old.
Read our full review: From San Pedro De Atacama: Puritama Hot Spring Experience Review
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Common Questions
How Do I Get to the Hot Springs From My Hotel?
To get to the hot springs from your hotel, you’ll need to arrange transportation. Most hotels offer shuttle services or can help you book a taxi or private transfer. Just ask the front desk for the best way to reach the hot springs.
What Should I Bring With Me to the Hot Springs?
When visiting the hot springs, be sure to bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and water. Dress in light, comfortable clothing that can easily be removed. Don’t forget to pack any personal items you may need for a relaxing soak.
Are There Any Restrictions or Age Limits for the Hot Springs?
Most hot springs have age restrictions, typically 12 or 14 years old. Check with the specific facility before visiting. You’ll also want to follow any posted rules, such as no glass or alcohol. Enjoy the soak!
Are There Any Dining or Food Options Available at the Hot Springs?
Yes, many hot springs in the area offer on-site dining options. You’ll find restaurants, cafes, and snack bars serving a variety of local and international cuisine to enjoy after your relaxing soak. Be sure to check the amenities of each hot spring location.
Can I Visit the Hot Springs on My Own or Do I Need a Tour?
You can visit the hot springs on your own, but a tour can provide more convenience and local insights. Many hot springs offer onsite dining options, so check if they suit your preferences. Explore at your own pace or join a guided experience.
The Sum Up
You’ll find some of the best spa and hot springs experiences in San Pedro de Atacama. The Puritama Hot Springs offer a relaxing escape, while the Tatio Geyser and Geyser Blanco Hot Springs provide a unique natural wonder. Whether you choose a guided tour or transfer, you can easily access these geothermal wonders and enjoy the stunning Atacama desert landscape.