San Pedro de Atacama: El Tatio Geysers Tour – Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning a trip to the El Tatio Geysers in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile? If so, you’ll find plenty of activities to explore in this stunning Chilean oasis. With its awe-inspiring volcanic landscape, multi-million-year-old geothermal features, and crystal clear night skies, El Tatio is a cryptid-hunter’s paradise.

El Tatio Geysers tour in San Pedro de Atacama offer travellers an up-close and personal experience with this fascinating part of the world. But what can you expect when you go on one of these tours? In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about the El Tatio Geysers tour.

What is the El Tatio Geyser tour?

The El Tatio Geyser tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the areas of El Tatio in San Pedro de Atacama. This is one of the world’s largest geyser fields, with over 80 geothermal features that blast hot steam and water up to 15 meters into the air.

The tour takes place in the early morning, when this geothermal activity is at its peak. During the tour, visitors will learn about the geology and ecology of the area, as well as the history behind it.

Depending on the tour operator, you may also get the chance to soak in a hot spring and visit nearby sites such as Machuca and Pica Lagoons. Many of these tours are able to provide the option to do horse riding, which is a popular activity in San Pedro de Atacama.

Where Is El Tatio Geyser?

El Tatio Geyser is located in the Andes, approximately 150 km northeast of Calama in Northern Chile. The geyser field is located inside a canyon and surrounded by a beautiful landscape of steaming geothermal springs and mud pools.

The area is best accessed from the town of San Pedro de Atacama, located to the east of this geothermal paradise.

When Is the Best Time to Visit El Tatio Geyser?

The best time to visit El Tatio Geyser is at dawn when it is usually around 0°C. This is when the thermal activity of this geothermal hot spot is at its most active.

As such, all El Tatio Geysers tour companies offer early morning departure times to give visitors a full experience and to ensure that they arrive at El Tatio before the thermal activity starts to dim out.

What Should I Bring on an El Tatio Geyser Tour?

When embarking on an El Tatio Geyser tour, you must bring essential items such as weatherproof and comfortable clothing, plenty of water, a camera and tripod (if you wish to take pictures), and a hat and sunglasses.

You should also be prepared for any changes in temperature as you go from one location to another, as temperatures can drop suddenly as you go deeper into the El Tatio Geyser area. Furthermore, be sure to bring a pocket light as parts of this volcanic area can be quite dark.

How Long Does an El Tatio Geyser Tour Last?

Most El Tatio Geyser tours last between three and four hours, including the drive from San Pedro de Atacama to El Tatio. However, many of these tour companies offer extended tours with extra activities and stops at nearby areas such as Machuca or Pica Lagoons.

What Will I See on an El Tatio Geyser Tour?

An El Tatio Geyser tour will take you through a variety of different geothermal features located inside a stunning canyon landscape. As you go around this volcanic area, you will get the chance to see:

• Over 80 geysers venting steam into the air
• Stunningly tall rock formations
• Pools of bubbling mud
• Vibrant colors of the thermal springs
• Vast landscapes bathed in morning sunlight
• Legend and stories about local communities living in the area

You will also get the chance to soak in hot springs with temperatures up to 42°C before heading back to San Pedro de Atacama or carrying on with your day.

How Much Does an El Tatio Geyser Tour Cost?

The cost of an El Tatio Geyser tour can vary depending on if you are booking a private or shared tour, what type of transport will be used during the tour (public bus or private vehicle), and how long the tour will be (extended tours may have extra charges). On average though, most shared group tours cost approximately US $80 people while private tours may cost up to US $200 per person depending on the company and what it includes.

What Is the Best Way to Book an El Tatio Geyser Tour?

The best way to book an El Tatio Geyser tour is through official tour operators based in San Pedro de Atacama or through companies like GetYourGuide who can offer local El Tatio tours. GetYourGuide has plenty of options when it comes to booking a tour of this amazing geothermal landscape, ranging from shared group tours to extended tours that may include hot springs and multi-day trips. Book an unforgettable experience with GetYourGuide today.

Visiting El Tatio Geysers in San Pedro de Atacama should definitely be on your list if you’re visiting this amazing Chilean oasis. Going on an El Tatio tour is an unforgettable experience that will take you through spectacular thermal features in one of Chile’s most stunning environments. With so many options available for booking your El Tatio experience, it has never been easier to explore this geological wonder. So why wait? Book an unforgettable experience and start your adventure at El Tatio today.