San Pedro De Atacama: the Tatio Geysers & Machuca Lagoon Trip

San Pedro de Atacama, a desert oasis in northern Chile, beckons adventurous travelers to explore its remarkable geothermal wonders. One such journey takes visitors on an unforgettable day trip to the stunning El Tatio Geysers and the serene Machuca Lagoon. Witness the spectacle of over 100 geysers erupting steam at sunrise, followed by a delightful breakfast amidst the otherworldly landscape. Then, discover the tranquil wetland of Machuca Lagoon, home to diverse highland birds. This tour promises to enrich visitors with the region’s natural beauty and geological marvels, leaving them captivated and eager to uncover more of what San Pedro de Atacama has to offer.

Key Points

• This tour offers a visit to the third-largest geyser field in the world, the El Tatio geysers, showcasing impressive steam eruptions.
• The tour includes a stop at the Machuca Lagoon, a wetland habitat for highland birds like flamingos and ducks.
• The 7-hour tour departs from San Pedro de Atacama and includes transportation, a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide, and a complimentary breakfast.
• Customers have praised the seamless execution, engaging guide, and overall exceptional experience of the tour.
• The tour provides an opportunity to explore the unique geological and ecological wonders of the Atacama Desert.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

The activity offered is a San Pedro de Atacama tour to the El Tatio Geysers and Machuca Lagoon, priced from $45.90 per person.

The 7-hour duration trip is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour highlights include the third-largest geyser field in the world at El Tatio, as well as the Machuca Lagoon wetland inhabited by flamingos and ducks.

The itinerary includes a 1.5-hour walk to the geysers, a breakfast while observing the steam eruptions, and a visit to the Machuca Lagoon before returning to San Pedro de Atacama.

Highlights and Attractions

El Tatio geyser field stands as Chile’s most important geothermal activity zone, boasting the title of the third-largest geyser field in the world. Visitors can experience the steam eruptions from over 100 small craters, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Nearby, the Machuca Lagoon is a wetland home to a variety of highland birds, including the iconic flamingos and ducks. Trekking through this unique landscape allows travelers to enjoy the natural wonders of the Atacama Desert.

Whether it’s the geothermal activity at El Tatio or the vibrant wildlife at Machuca Lagoon, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s remarkable geological and ecological treasures.

Itinerary

According to the itinerary, the tour departs from San Pedro de Atacama at the scheduled meeting time.

The first stop is the El Tatio geyser field, located over 4,000 meters above sea level. After a 1.5-hour walk, guests will enjoy a breakfast while observing the geothermal activity at sunrise.

The tour then proceeds to the Machuca Lagoon, a wetland inhabited by highland birds like flamingos and ducks.

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation by bus and a Spanish-speaking guide to accompany guests throughout the experience.

Breakfast is provided during the visit to the El Tatio geysers, where participants can witness the steam eruptions from over 100 small craters.

The entrance fee to the El Tatio geysers, which costs approximately 14.20 euros per person, is also included in the overall price.

This comprehensive package ensures that travelers can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the region without having to worry about additional costs or logistics.

The inclusions cater to the needs of the travelers, making the San Pedro de Atacama trip a seamless and enjoyable experience.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have expressed a high level of satisfaction with their San Pedro de Atacama trip, as evidenced by the overall 5/5 rating based on a single review.

The customer provided positive feedback, highlighting the following:

• The trip’s seamless execution, with timely departures and returns
• The knowledgeable and engaging Spanish-speaking guide
• The enjoyment of the included breakfast while witnessing the geothermal activity at sunrise
• The opportunity to visit the picturesque Machuca Lagoon and observe the diverse highland bird life

While the customer noted a critique regarding late pickup notification, the overall experience appears to have been exceptional, reinforcing the appeal of this San Pedro de Atacama adventure.

Departure and Arrival

The San Pedro de Atacama trip departs from the town according to the pre-determined meeting time.

The journey to the El Tatio geyser field takes approximately 1.5 hours, as the group travels over 4,000 meters above sea level.

Upon arrival, a breakfast is served while participants observe the mesmerizing geothermal activity at sunrise.

After visiting the Machuca Lagoon, the tour returns to San Pedro de Atacama, arriving back in town between 11:30 and 12:00 noon.

This comprehensive 7-hour excursion allows visitors to experience the natural wonders of Chile’s most important geothermal zone and the diverse wildlife of the Machuca Lagoon.

Geothermal Activity at El Tatio

What makes the El Tatio geyser field so captivating is its sheer scale and intensity.

Located over 4,000 meters above sea level, this geothermal wonderland boasts:

1. Over 100 small craters continuously erupting steam and boiling water.
2. Temperatures reaching up to 85°C (185°F) in the geysers.
3. A unique, otherworldly landscape of bubbling pools and hissing fumaroles.
4. The opportunity to witness the daily spectacle of sunrise over the geysers, when the steam plumes are at their most dramatic.

Visitors can stroll among the geysers, marveling at the raw power of the Earth’s natural processes on display in this remote corner of the Atacama Desert.

Wetland of Machuca Lagoon

After marveling at the geothermal wonders of El Tatio, the San Pedro de Atacama tour takes visitors to the serene Machuca Lagoon, a wetland habitat home to an array of highland birds.

The lagoon’s tranquil waters provide a stunning contrast to the volcanic landscapes of the region. Visitors can expect to spot native species like flamingos and ducks wading in the shallow waters or taking flight across the mirrored surface.

The Machuca Lagoon offers a peaceful respite, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of Chile’s high-altitude wetlands before returning to San Pedro de Atacama.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Participants are generally permitted to take photos and videos during the tour. However, it’s advisable to check with the guide for any specific restrictions or guidelines to ensure an enjoyable and respectful experience for all.

What Should I Wear or Bring for This Trip?

For this trip, you’ll want to dress in warm, layered clothing and bring sun protection. Pack snacks, water, and comfortable walking shoes. Bringing a camera or GoPro is also recommended to capture the stunning geothermal landscapes.

Is There Any Age or Fitness Requirement to Participate?

There are no specific age or fitness requirements for this trip. However, participants should be able to walk for approximately 1.5 hours at high altitudes. Those with health concerns should consult their doctor before booking.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour?

Yes, you can request a private or customized tour. Many tour operators offer personalized experiences to accommodate your preferences and schedule. Simply inquire about their available options when booking your trip.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Mentioned?

The price provided includes all necessary fees and costs for the tour. There are no additional expenses or hidden charges beyond the listed price per person. The tour package covers transportation, guide service, breakfast, and entrance to the geysers.

The Sum Up

Exploring the otherworldly landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama’s Tatio Geysers and Machuca Lagoon is a must-do experience. Witnessing the steam-spewing geysers at dawn, followed by the tranquil wetland teeming with highland birds, immerses visitors in the region’s captivating natural wonders. This excursion offers a comprehensive glimpse into the area’s remarkable geothermal and ecological treasures, leaving lasting memories of Chile’s stunning Atacama Desert.

You can check if your dates are available here: