Geysers del Tatio★★★
Geysers del Tatio — Steam at 4,320 Meters
The Geysers del Tatio are the highest geyser field in the world and with over 80 active geysers, the third largest after Yellowstone and Kamchatka. They are located at an altitude of 4,320 meters, 89 km north of San Pedro — and the only way to experience them properly is at sunrise.
The tours start at 4:00 AM (yes, really). The drive through the pitch-black desert takes 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, it is freezing cold (−10 to −15°C!) — and then the spectacle begins: As the first rays of sunlight hit the icy air, the geysers shoot their steaming fountains meters high into the air. The steam clouds are bathed in golden sunlight, while the surroundings shine in an unreal contrast of ice, steam, and dazzling light.
The geysers bubble, hiss, and spout in different rhythms — some every few minutes, some continuously. In between are hot pools, where you can actually bathe: a surreal experience to sit in steaming thermal water while the temperature around you is below freezing.
Achtung
The altitude is no joke: 4,320 meters is extreme. Take time to acclimatize on the first day in San Pedro (2,440 m) before visiting the geysers. Those with heart problems or respiratory diseases should consult a doctor beforehand. And: Pack really warm clothing — the −15°C upon arrival is no joke.