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San Pedro de Atacama, Chile - Trek and Drive Tour

By Bonnie Hamre, About.com

5 of 10

Day 5: Machuca to Geysers del Tatio - Trek and Drive

El Tatio geyser Atacama Chile

El Tatio geyser, Atacama, Chile

Victor Kabath Portillo

Option 1: Machuca via Puritama to Geysers del Tatio

It's a short trek from Machuca, along the river route, to the hot springs of Puritama for a relaxing bath. The hot springs are seven natural pools of water heated to 35 degrees C. After, you'll continue to the Geysers del Tatio for overnight camping.

Geyser El Tatio is one of the wonders of the Atacama Desert in the Antofagasta region of Norte Grande. At 14,200 ft (4300 m), these are the highest geysers in the world. The geysers are surrounded by fumaroles and mountains reaching almost 20,000 ft (6000 m).

Option 2: Machuca to Baños de Puritama and El Tatio

A morning drive and a short trek will get you to Puritama hot springs with time to enjoy a relaxing bath before continuing to the Geysers del Tatio where you'll camp overnight.

Tip:

Even in summer, desert nights are cold. In addition to your clothes, including T-shirts, shorts, jeans or long pants, bathing suit, comfortable hiking boots, sneakers, sandals and socks, you'll want a sweater, a jacket and a wool cap. Gloves are optional. You'll also want a warm sleeping bag and a comfortable pad. Remember a hat, sunglasses and sun tan lotion. Check this climate chart.
Bonnie Hamre
Guide since 1997

Bonnie Hamre
South America Travel Guide

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