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  • Sightseeing

  • Transportation

  • Guide

  • Snacks

Discover one of the most striking 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.

Set at more than 4,200 metres above sea level, the El Tatio Geysers offer a singular scene 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 impressive 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 altiplanic wildlife can be spotted, with a stop at the traditional village of Machuca, known for its small church, its adobe houses and its distinctly Andean atmosphere.

An experience worth taking for those 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.

Physical Demand
medium low
Although the walking is straightforward, the altitude of approximately 4,300 metres and the low temperatures place greater physical demand on the body. Because of the altitude, we recommend taking this excursion after 24 to 48 hours of acclimatisation in San Pedro de Atacama. The lower amount of oxygen at altitude increases the sense of physical effort, even during short, low-difficulty walks.
Experience
For Everyone
No previous experience needed.
Altitude Range
2400-4300 meters of height above mean sea level

Itinerary

04:30 am - Departure from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama

El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
Visit to the El Tatio Geysers

With more than 80 active geysers and a wide variety of fumaroles and bubbling mud pools, we'll immerse ourselves in a unique and fascinating geothermal setting. The panoramic views of the mountains and the surrounding nature are striking and give you a sense of the scale and natural beauty of the place.

El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
Visit to the village of Machuca

Despite its small size, Machuca has plenty to offer. We'll 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.

El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
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 over 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
  • 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

  • Entrance Fee Geyser del Tatio CL$ 15 000 Payable at the destination.
    General public entrance fee: CL$15000. Payment only in cash.
  • Medical, accident or travel insurance
Additional fees to be paid locally
per person, from
CL$ 15 000

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 service provider complies with accredited safety standards, whose purpose is to reduce the risks that this activity involves.
  • It is the duty of the adventure tourism service provider to inform passengers 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 doing 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 5 days or more before the service date: 90% refund.
  • Cancellations with 4 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 day's exchange rate from their value in Chilean Pesos (CLP) and may vary depending on the day payment is made.
  • Entrance tickets to National Parks or Reserves are not included in the tour price.
  • Rates valid for services at the times indicated.
  • Services apply with a minimum number of passengers at the time of booking. Minimum of 2 passengers.
  • Rates per person subject to change.
  • For safety and operational reasons, schedules may be modified without prior notice.
  • On excursions, pick-up is at the hotel indicated.
  • For transfer services, pick-up applies from all hotels in San Pedro de Atacama (does not include Ayllus on the outskirts).
  • Excursions with a bilingual Spanish and English guide.

Our apply on everything not mentioned before.

Request with GreatChile

El Tatio Geysers and the Village of Machuca
4.8/5 (5 reviews)
per person, from
CL$ 45 000


      Per Person Price

    Prices available for travel between Sep 14, 2026 and Mar 6, 2028.

    Urban area, within 1 km from downtown; if you’re unsure about coverage, select "Assisted booking"

    During the booking process we will request the following data per traveler: Full Name, Birth Date, Nationality, Passport Number, Mail, Phone Number, Allergies.

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