Arrival at Calama Airport. Transfer to hostel. Free day
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Free day to relax or taking optional tours like Moon Valley, Altiplanic Lagoons or Astro Photography tour.
Note: as the Geisers are located in high place it is best to do the tour on Day 3 and leave Day 2 for optional tours that are not in high terrain.
Afternoon
Geysers del Tatio Excursion: You will be picked up at the hostel between 4.30 and 5 am depending on season to be able to admire the driest and highest desert in the world. The road will take you between hills and mountains of the tough Andes range until you reach the geothermal site of the Geysers, 1 hour and a half after departure. There you will be able to admire the out of this world Geysers, fumaroles and steaming craters that show the volcanic activity of the region. The Geysers reserve is located at 89 km from San Pedro and 4.230 meters above sea level. So temperature is low in summer (-6 degrees Celcius) and even colder in winter (july-august) (-20 degrees Celcius). It is very important to take warm clothes and plenty of water to help your body adapt to such a high altitude. Breakfast is offered viewing the geothermic field. Back to San Pedro hostel at about mid day
Tatio Geysers - San Pedro de Atacama
🌋 El Tatio Geysers: San Pedro de Atacama - A Sunrise Adventure at 4,000 Meters
Witness the earth breathe at one of the highest geothermal fields in the world. Located 4,230 meters above sea level in the heart of the Andes, El Tatio is a spectacular display of volcanic power. Every morning, as the sun rises, dozens of geysers, fumaroles, and steaming craters create a surreal landscape that feels like a journey to the beginning of time.
✨ Tour Highlights
Geothermal Spectacle: Watch as massive columns of steam erupt into the freezing morning air, creating a dramatic contrast against the desert sunrise.
High-Altitude Breakfast: Enjoy a unique breakfast served directly in the geothermal field, surrounded by active geysers and the silence of the high Andes.
Machuca Village: On the return journey, visit this traditional highland village. Discover its historic adobe church and get a taste of local Andean life.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for vicuñas, Andean foxes, and giant vizcachas that inhabit these extreme altitudes.
⏱️ Logistics & Schedule
Departure: Early morning pick-up between 04:30 AM and 05:00 AM (varies by season).
Travel Time: A 1.5-hour journey through the mountains to reach the field.
Return: You will be back at your hostel in San Pedro around 12:00 PM (midday).
Pick-up Window: Please allow a 30-minute tolerance window for group coordination.
ℹ️ Practical Information
Activity Level: Moderate (Due to extreme altitude).
Included: Professional bilingual guide, round-trip transportation, and breakfast.
Not Included: National Park Entrance Fee (Approx. CLP 15,000 per person).
⚠️ Crucial Note: The entrance fee must be pre-paid in CASH at the Horizonte Atacama office (Caracoles 238) before the tour. It cannot be paid at the park.
✅ Hi Travel Get Ready Checklist
[ ] Dress for Extreme Cold: Temperatures can drop to -6°C (summer) and -20°C (winter). Wear thermal layers, a heavy down jacket, a warm hat, and gloves.
[ ] Altitude Preparation: Drink plenty of water the night before and avoid heavy meals or alcohol. The site is at 4,230 meters, so move slowly and breathe deeply.
[ ] Cash for Fees: Ensure you have the CLP 15,000 ready to pay at the agency office before your trip.
[ ] Sun Protection: Once the sun comes up, the radiation at this altitude is extremely strong. Bring high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses.
Supplier: Horizonte Atacama - Phone: +56 978859999
Check out, end of trip