Full Day Tour to Geyser Del Tatio, Vado Putana and Machuca

The full day tour to Geyser del Tatio, Vado Putana, and Machuca promises an unforgettable exploration of San Pedro de Atacama’s stunning geothermal landscapes. Travelers can marvel at erupting geysers, unique wildlife, and breathtaking vistas, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pick-up, shared transportation, and knowledgeable guides. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 66 reviews, this tour offers an exceptional value at just $50 per person. However, the early morning start and high-altitude terrain mean visitors must be prepared for the challenges. Those willing to embrace the adventure are sure to be rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Full-Day Tours in San Pedro De Atacama.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion to explore the geothermal wonders of Geyser del Tatio, Vado Putana, and Machuca, with hotel pick-up, shared transportation, breakfast, and entrance fees included.
• The tour is rated 5.0 out of 5 from 66 reviews and has a maximum capacity of 12 travelers, offering a personalized experience.
• Participants will witness the impressive geysers, boiling mud pots, and diverse wildlife, while being guided by an English/Spanish-speaking driver/guide.
• Early morning timing (4:30-5:00 AM) allows for witnessing the geysers at peak activity and taking advantage of ideal lighting conditions for photography.
• Due to the high altitude, the tour is not recommended for individuals with serious medical issues, and medical authorization may be required for those with hypertension.

Tour Overview

The Geyser del Tatio Tour offers a full-day excursion to explore the stunning geothermal field of Geyser del Tatio, along with visits to Vado Putana and Machuca, all located in the San Pedro de Atacama region of Chile.

Priced at $50.00 per person, this tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers and has received an impressive 5.0 rating from 66 reviews.

The tour includes pick-up from your hotel, shared transportation with an English/Spanish-speaking driver/guide, breakfast, and entrance fees to the Geyser del Tatio.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off in the center of San Pedro de Atacama, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions and Schedule

The tour includes pick-up from your hotel between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM, providing shared transportation with an English/Spanish-speaking driver/guide throughout the day.

Breakfast is also provided as part of the experience.

Upon arrival at the Geyser del Tatio, you’ll receive an entrance ticket costing 15,000 CLP ($16 USD) per person. After exploring the impressive geysers, the tour continues to Vado Putana and Machuca.

At the end of the day, you’ll be dropped off at the center.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Travelers should be aware of several important health and safety guidelines before embarking on this tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. On top of that, a minimum age of 12 years is required as per the agency’s policy.

Travelers should also have a strong level of physical fitness, as the tour involves activities at high altitudes. Individuals with hypertension will require medical authorization to participate.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Traveler Experiences

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the unique and unforgettable experience of the Geyser del Tatio tour, with travelers praising the knowledgeable and informative guides.

Visitors rave about the stunning views and impressive geysers, which provide a truly breathtaking spectacle early in the morning.

Many recommend dressing in layers to combat the chilly temperatures, and note that the provided breakfast is both enjoyable and energizing.

The tour also offers opportunities to spot local wildlife like flamingos, llamas, and a variety of birds, adding to the overall sense of adventure.

Travelers consistently rate this tour as a highlight of their time in San Pedro de Atacama, making it a must-do activity for those visiting the region.

Early Morning Start

One aspect that sets the Geyser del Tatio tour apart is its early morning start, with hotel pickups between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. This timing is widely regarded as worthwhile by past participants, as it allows visitors to witness the geysers in their most dramatic and impressive state – when the steam and water eruptions are at their peak. The benefits of the early start are evident in the following table:

Benefit	Explanation
Impressive Displays	The geysers are most active in the early morning hours
Fewer Crowds	Arriving before other travelers ensures better views and access
Ideal Lighting	The soft, golden light of sunrise creates stunning photography opportunities
Acclimatization	The high altitude (4,300 m) is easier to manage in the cooler morning temperatures

This well-timed start is a key factor in the overwhelmingly positive reviews for this Geyser del Tatio tour.

Geothermal Wonders

The Geyser del Tatio, a vast geothermal field nestled high in the Andes of northern Chile, beckons visitors with its otherworldly display of steaming vents, boiling mud pots, and erupting geysers that can reach up to 6 meters in height.

As the sun rises, the morning chill contrasts with the steam billowing from the ground, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle.

Travelers can wander among the active geysers, observing their powerful eruptions and delighting in the vibrant colors of the mineral-rich waters.

This unique geothermal wonderland offers a glimpse into the dynamic processes shaping the earth’s interior, captivating visitors with its raw, primal energy.

Wildlife Encounters

Visitors to the Geyser del Tatio tour can expect to encounter a variety of native wildlife, from the iconic Andean flamingo wading in the nearby lagoons to the graceful guanacos (a relative of the llama) roaming the rugged terrain.

The tour also offers the chance to spot the elusive vicuña, a wild camelid prized for its soft, fine wool.

Sharp-eyed travelers may even catch a glimpse of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the Western Hemisphere, soaring high above the geothermal landscape.

The diverse array of birdlife in the area includes Andean geese, giant coots, and the striking Andean lapwing.

This unique wildlife experience adds an extra layer of wonder to the already breathtaking Geyser del Tatio tour.

Altitude Considerations

Trekking to the Geyser del Tatio at an elevation of 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) requires proper acclimatization due to the high altitude.

The tour agency recommends that travelers spend a day or two in San Pedro de Atacama prior to the excursion to allow their bodies to adjust.

Those with hypertension or other medical conditions may need to obtain medical authorization before participating.

Travelers should also be aware of the potential for altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

Maintaining hydration, avoiding alcohol, and taking it slow are crucial.

The early morning departure time means dealing with chilly temperatures, so dressing in layers is advised.

With some preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the unique thermal features and wildlife at this high-altitude destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Group of 20?

Unfortunately, the tour has a maximum capacity of 12 travelers, so booking for a group of 20 would not be possible. The tour operator may be able to accommodate a smaller group or suggest an alternative tour option.

Do I Need to Pay a Deposit to Reserve My Spot?

Yes, a deposit may be required to reserve your spot on the tour. The tour operator’s policies typically state the deposit amount and deadline to secure the booking for your group of 20.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to Private Transportation?

Yes, there may be an option to upgrade to private transportation for an additional fee. Travelers should check with the tour provider about availability and pricing for a private tour experience rather than the shared transportation.

Can I Add Additional Stops to the Tour Itinerary?

Typically, tour operators allow customers to add extra stops to the itinerary for an additional fee. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour provider to understand their policies and any associated costs for customizing the tour.

Will There Be Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t explicitly include time for souvenir shopping, but participants may have opportunities to purchase local crafts or goods at certain stops along the way. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any planned souvenir stops.

Recap

This full-day tour offers an unforgettable exploration of San Pedro de Atacama’s stunning geothermal landscapes.

With a perfect 5.0 rating from 66 reviews, it’s a must-do experience for visitors.

The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, breakfast, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.

Travelers can witness erupting geysers, encounter unique wildlife, and learn from knowledgeable guides, all while navigating the region’s high-altitude terrain.