Half Day Tour to Tatio Geysers

Exploring the Atacama Desert’s natural wonders is a must for any traveler. The Tatio Geysers, located high in the Andes, offer a unique chance to witness steam-emitting geysers at sunrise. This half-day tour provides an immersive experience, with the opportunity to spot wildlife like flamingos and vicuñas. While the early start time may seem daunting, the rewards of witnessing this breathtaking spectacle are well worth it. Discover why this tour has earned a 96% satisfaction rate from previous visitors.

Key Points

• The Tatio Geysers tour is a half-day excursion in the Atacama Desert, Chile, offering a unique experience to witness steam-emitting geysers in the early morning.
• The tour includes a breakfast spread and has a maximum group size of 18, with a 96% recommendation rate based on 266 reviews.
• Entrance fees are paid separately in Chilean pesos, and proper preparation for high altitude and cold weather conditions is recommended.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but has infant seats available, and certain medical conditions may limit participation.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful information, and an additional stop for wildlife viewing is included in the tour experience.

Tour Overview

This half-day tour takes visitors to the Tatio Geysers, located in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile near the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

With 266 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, the tour offers an up-close look at the impressive geothermal activity.

Priced from $48 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 18 travelers and starts at 4:30 AM, ending at the Plazoleta La Apacheta in San Pedro de Atacama.

Breakfast is included, though entrance fees are paid separately in Chilean pesos.

Inclusions and Meeting Details

The tour includes a breakfast spread at the Tatio Geysers, featuring fruits, bread, juice, coffee, tea, cookies, cheese, and cake.

Entrance tickets to the geysers aren’t included, costing $19 USD per person in cash.

Entrance tickets to the geysers must be purchased separately, costing $19 USD per person in cash.

Pickup is available, with the meeting point at Plaza Turistur if outside the pickup radius.

Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or respiratory issues.

Health and Accessibility

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

It isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or respiratory issues. Most travelers can participate, but those with concerns should consult their healthcare provider before booking.

The high altitude and cold weather require proper preparation. Visitors should dress warmly and be aware of potential altitude sickness symptoms.

The tour may not be suitable for everyone, but for those who can manage the conditions, it offers a unique and rewarding experience at the Tatio Geysers.

Tour Experience and Highlights

Guides leading the tour are knowledgeable, friendly, and provide insightful information about the geysers and the surrounding geology.

The tour experience offers several highlights:

• Visitors can witness the dramatic, steam-emitting geysers at their most impressive before sunrise.

• An additional stop allows for wildlife viewing, including flamingos and vicuñas.

• A hearty breakfast is served at the geysers, including fruits, bread, juice, coffee, tea, cookies, cheese, and cake.

• The early morning timing captures the geysers at their best, before the sun fully rises.

• Guests can enjoy the unique volcanic landscape of the Atacama Desert.

Reviews and Recommendations

What do the reviews and recommendations say about this tour? Overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 267 reviews.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who provide insightful information. They highlight the early morning visit to capture the geysers at their best.

However, some note communication issues for English speakers on mixed-language tours. Reviewers suggest dressing warmly and being prepared for the high altitude.

Despite the early start and cold weather, this tour is widely recommended as a must-see experience in the Atacama Desert.

Getting to Tatio Geysers

Around a 1.5-hour drive from San Pedro de Atacama, the Tatio Geysers lie at an elevation of over 14,000 feet in the Andes mountains.

The journey is a scenic one, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

To reach the geysers, travelers can:

• Join a guided tour that includes transportation

• Rent a car and self-drive (4WD recommended)

• Take a shared shuttle or bus service

• Book a private transfer for a more personalized experience

• Hire a taxi for a door-to-door service

The early start time ensures visitors can witness the geysers at their most active, before the sun rises and the environment warms up.

What to Expect at the Geysers

Upon arrival at the Tatio Geysers, visitors are greeted by the impressive sight of steam rising from the ground, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

The geysers erupt in dramatic fashion, reaching heights of up to 5 meters. Guides provide informative commentary on the geological formation and unique characteristics of the Tatio field, one of the highest geyser fields in the world at an elevation of 4,320 meters.

Breakfast is served at the site, offering a chance to warm up and refuel before exploring the surrounding area and observing wildlife like flamingos and vicuñas.

Tips for the Tatio Geysers Tour

To make the most of the Tatio Geysers tour, travelers should dress in warm, layered clothing and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Plus, they should:

Dress in warm, layered clothing and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to make the most of the Tatio Geysers tour.

• Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Pack snacks and water to stay energized during the early morning excursion

• Have cash on hand for the $19 USD entry fee (in Chilean pesos only)

• Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning geothermal landscape

• Be prepared for high-altitude conditions and potential motion sickness

These tips will help ensure a comfortable and memorable experience at the Tatio Geysers, one of the must-see attractions in Chile’s Atacama Desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos or Videos at the Geysers?

Travelers can take photos and videos at the Tatio Geysers. The tour guides allow and encourage visitors to capture the stunning natural sights, but recommend being cautious around the active geothermal features for safety.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Tatio Geysers?

The best time to visit the Tatio Geysers is during the dry season from May to September when the geysers are most active and the weather is milder, though the early morning start time can be chilly year-round.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available at the Geysers?

There are basic restroom facilities available at the Tatio Geysers site. Visitors can use these facilities during the tour stop. However, the facilities may be limited, so it’s best to plan accordingly before the early morning departure.

Will I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?

You’ll want to dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes, as the tour takes place in the cold, high-altitude environment of the Tatio Geysers. No special equipment is required, but layering clothing is recommended to stay comfortable throughout the early morning excursion.

Can I Extend My Stay or Explore the Area Further After the Tour?

Yes, you can explore the San Pedro de Atacama area further after the tour. The tour ends in the town, allowing you to extend your stay and visit other attractions in the region at your own pace.

The Sum Up

The Tatio Geysers tour offers a unique and breathtaking experience in the Atacama Desert. With stunning views of the geysers at sunrise, the chance to spot wildlife, and a hearty breakfast in a volcanic landscape, it’s no wonder the tour has a 96% satisfaction rate. At $48 per person, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting the region.