El Tatio

Information

This is a geothermal field full of geysers and fumaroles, located in the Andean zone of Chile above 4300 metres above sea level, and is undoubtedly one of the great attractions of this region.

The steam coming out of these geysers and fumaroles is due to the fact that, under the surface, underground water flows come into contact with lava producing steam that comes out of the ground through different fissures.

From San Pedro de Atacama it is an 80 km drive along a dirt road (Route B-245) to the north, which also leads to Guatín and Machuca. In San Pedro de Atacama there are many agencies that offer the excursion to the geysers at affordable prices.

On arrival there is a car park and to enter the geothermal field you have to pay a ticket. It is visited by many tourists. The place has a tour and a thermal pool. It is advisable to arrive very early in the morning at 6 or 7 a.m., just before sunrise (take a coat because the temperature at that time is very low), because at that time you can see the steam columns better.

IMPORTANT: Never step on or get too close to the mud or steam plumes of the geysers, as this can cause burns or accidents. Always stay at a safe distance and take into account the safety warnings of the guides and those who supervise the site.