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Sightseeing
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Discover one of the most surprising landscapes of the Chilean altiplano on a sunrise excursion to the El Tatio Geysers, one of the largest and highest geothermal fields in the world.
Sitting at more than 4,200 metres above sea level, the El Tatio Geysers offer a unique setting of fumaroles, columns of steam, thermal pools and volcanic landscapes deep in the Andes.
The excursion starts before dawn so you reach the geothermal field at sunrise, when the low temperatures make the steam from the geysers especially visible, creating one of the most striking natural displays in the Atacama Desert.
During the visit you will walk through different sectors of the geothermal field and learn more about the volcanic and geological activity that shapes this part of the altiplano.
On the way back to San Pedro de Atacama, the route continues through mountain landscapes where you can spot altiplanic wildlife and stop at the traditional village of Machuca, known for its small church, its adobe buildings and its distinctly Andean atmosphere.
An experience for travellers who want to combine nature, high-altitude landscapes, photography and local culture during their stay in San Pedro de Atacama.
Duration: approximately 7 hours.
Schedule
Departure from San Pedro de Atacama at 05:00 hrs.
Estimated return to San Pedro de Atacama at 12:00 hrs.
Itinerary
04:30 am - Departure from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama

Visit to the El Tatio Geysers
With more than 80 active geysers and a wide variety of fumaroles and boiling mud pools, we will immerse ourselves in a unique and fascinating geothermal setting. The panoramic views of the mountains and the surrounding nature are striking, giving a sense of vastness and natural beauty.

Visit to the village of Machuca
Despite its small size, Machuca offers some interesting sights. We will explore the village on foot, visit the church and meet the local residents. You can also try some of the region's culinary specialties, such as llama empanadas, sold at small food stalls.
12:30 hrs. approx. - Return to your accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and return to your hotel or hostel located within the urban area of San Pedro de Atacama.
The El Tatio Geysers are one of the highest geothermal fields in the world, located on the Andean altiplano at more than 4,200 metres above sea level and known for their fumaroles and volcanic activity.
The best moment is at sunrise, when the low temperatures intensify the columns of steam and let you appreciate the geothermal phenomenon at its fullest.
The excursion can be done all year round. During winter the fumaroles tend to look more intense because of the low temperatures.
Yes. Because of the altitude and the timing of the excursion, during the early morning hours temperatures can drop below zero, especially between May and August.
For this reason, it is very important to come with thermal clothing and several layers.
Included
- Transport Service
- Passenger Transportation Insurance
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Bilingual Guide spanish/english
During excursions and departures mentioned in the itinerary -
Expert advice and coordination
Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls. -
Booking Fee – Reservation Management
Included in the final price. This fee covers the administrative expenses associated with managing and confirming the reservation, processing payments, and coordinating the service with local operators.
Not Included
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Entrance Fee Geyser del Tatio
US$ 16,00
Payable at the destination.
General public entrance fee: CL$15000. Payment only in cash. - Medical, accident or travel insurance
Tickets and entrance fees payable at the destination are a direct contribution to the conservation of ecosystems and infrastructure, and support culture and the local community.
General Conditions
Conditions for Minors
- The minimum age to take the El Tatio Geysers tour is 12 years old.
Safety Conditions During the Service
- Whether due to weather conditions or the state of the route (roads) not offering the minimum guarantees for a safe operation, our supplier reserves the right to cancel the service.
Acceptance of the Risks of the Activity
- The passenger declares that they know and understand the risks involved in taking part in adventure tourism activities, which cannot be completely eliminated even when the safety standards accredited to the service provider are met, standards whose purpose is to reduce the risks that this activity involves.
- It is the duty of the adventure tourism service provider to inform participants of the conditions and requirements for carrying out the activity. Likewise, it is the duty of participants taking an adventure tourism service to properly inform themselves about the conditions under which the service is provided, the minimum conditions the participant must meet before undertaking the activity, and to follow the instructions given by the company and the guide in charge of the activity.
Commercial Conditions
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations with 3 days or more before the service date: 90% refund.
- Cancellations with 2 days or less before the service date are not eligible for a refund.
Other Conditions
- Prices in United States Dollars (USD) are calculated using the exchange rate of the day based on their value in Chilean Pesos (CLP) and may vary depending on the day the payment is made.
- Entrance tickets to National Parks or Reserves are not included in the price of the tour.
- For safety and operational reasons, schedules may be modified without prior notice.
- On excursions, pick-up is at the hotel indicated.
- Excursions with a bilingual Spanish and English guide.
Our apply on everything not mentioned before.
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El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
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