Tatio Geysers - Atacama

Distance: 48 kilometers away from San Pedro de Atacama 

El Tatio (meaning "grandfather crying") is a geyser field located in the Andes Mountains of northern Chile at about 4200 m. It is the largest group of geysers in the southern hemisphere and the third largest in the world. El Tatio is about 80 geysers, about 8% of those in the world.

It is a geothermal field, located in the Andes Mountains, being the highest in the world and is located at 89 kilometers from San Pedro. Presents the early hours of the morning an impressive steaming fumaroles activity produced by the high temperatures of the craters. It is surrounded by mountains that reach 5900 meters high.

Its edges are soft minerals, you should have caution when approaching. The color of the soil and the sky stands out among the columns of vapor which are 7 meters high, in the first rays of the sun. It is a wonderful show. Nearby are natural pools where you can swim.

Approximately between 06:00 and 07:00 hours, the maximum expression occurs with temperatures reaching 85 ° C, and they emerge from the ground with force reaching approximate heights between 7 and 8 meters. On the way and place, we can see vicuñas, llamas, ostriches and vizcachas, while in flora you can see the giant cactus plants, llaretas and coirón. The temperature fluctuates between 15 ° C day and 2 ° C below zero at night. With its famous and spectacular scene, the Geysers are clearly one of the most impressive attractions to visit.

The place also has thermal water pools, encrusted with mineral deposits, while, in the background, the snowy summits of volcanoes are silhouetted against a sky blue metallic.

It is estimated that the site is visited by about 100,000 tourists each year. People generally do a tour of the Atacama Desert and the village of San Pedro de Atacama before going to El Tatio. Tourists are advised to carry warm clothing, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and bottle of water. It is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful shows offered by the desert.