El Tatio Geysers
Witness over 80 active geysers erupting at dawn in the high Andes, followed by a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximum steam visibility
El Tatio Geysers
Best Time
Maximum steam visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness over 80 active geysers erupting at dawn in the high Andes, followed by a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs.
"Absolutely incredible to see. Well worth the crazy early departure from one’s accommodation to get here!"
🧥 Dress for Extreme Cold
Temperatures can be -8°C to -16°C. Pack warm layers, a hat, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
🚗 Tour vs. Self-Drive
Rough roads make tours recommended. If driving, a 4x4 is best.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dawn Geyser Spectacle
Main Geyser Field
Witness over 80 active geysers erupting as the sun rises, creating a breathtaking display of steam against the Andean landscape.
Natural Hot Springs
Designated Bathing Pool
Soak in naturally heated thermal pools amidst the geyser field for a unique and rejuvenating experience.
Andean Wildlife Encounters
Surrounding Areas
Spot llamas and other native wildlife grazing peacefully against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Cold & Crowds
Navigating the Rough Road
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Geysers at dawn on the Altiplano at El Tatio, Chile — Five years ago on a year long road trip
🧥 Dress for Extreme Cold
Temperatures can be -8°C to -16°C. Pack warm layers, a hat, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
🚗 Tour vs. Self-Drive
Rough roads make tours recommended. If driving, a 4x4 is best.
Et Taito tour?
💰 Cash for Entry
Bring Chilean Pesos in cash for the entrance fee. Cards may not be accepted.
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness at 4,300m.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for Extreme Cold
Temperatures can be -8°C to -16°C. Pack warm layers, a hat, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
🚗 Tour vs. Self-Drive
Rough roads make tours recommended. If driving, a 4x4 is best.
💰 Cash for Entry
Bring Chilean Pesos in cash for the entrance fee. Cards may not be accepted.
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness at 4,300m.
📸 Capture the Steam
Go early for the best steam effects. A tripod can help with low light.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Tatio Geysers offers a truly spectacular and unique natural phenomenon, with visitors consistently awed by the dramatic steam eruptions at dawn. The opportunity to soak in natural hot springs adds to the memorable experience. However, the challenging road conditions and extreme cold require careful preparation, and some find the cost to be on the higher side for what's offered.
"El Tatio Geysers – absolutely worth it, but plan your visit well
El Tatio Geysers in Chile are truly beautiful and impressive, but getting there can be a challenge. The road starts off okay, but later becomes very rough – so I recommend either driving a 4x4 or, even better, joining an organized tour. It’s not ideal for regular passenger cars due to the bumpy terrain.
We visited in the afternoon, even though most guides recommend going early in the morning. The reason is that in the early hours, when the temperature is below freezing, the steam from the geysers is much more visible – and the visual effect is stunning. Still, we really enjoyed our afternoon visit too. The geysers were active, we could clearly see the steam and water shooting into the air, and the views of the surrounding mountains were beautiful.
There were also many llamas nearby, which made the experience even more special – great for photos! Just note that the entrance fee is around 15,000 Chilean pesos per adult and about 5,000 for children.
In short: despite the difficult road and our late arrival, it was a unique and memorable experience. I highly recommend visiting El Tatio – just try to go in the morning if you can!"
Krystian Tomaszewski
"It's expensive for what it is, in my opinion. I found the staff very helpful even though I didn't pay the entrance fee (hint: there are other geysers in the region that are free but much less accessible). I would suggest a visitor center with more information about the area, my 2 cents worth. If you want to go, take a tour and get there at 06.00 to see the best show. Temperatures can get as low as -8⁰C to -16⁰C so take a sweater 😉"
Scotdotcom
"Absolutely incredible to see. Well worth the crazy early departure from one’s accommodation to get here! There are some placards with English translations on site. Incredible lunar-like landscape with plenty to of spouts. Be prepared for it to be COLD-just above or below freezing-even in the summer, so dress appropriately."
Jennifer Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach El Tatio Geysers is by joining an organized tour from San Pedro de Atacama. These tours typically depart very early in the morning. Alternatively, you can drive yourself, but be prepared for a very rough, unpaved road. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for self-driving due to the challenging terrain.
The road to El Tatio Geysers is notoriously rough and unpaved for a significant portion. While some visitors have managed with regular cars, it's not ideal and can be uncomfortable. A 4x4 is strongly advised for a smoother and safer journey.
El Tatio Geysers are located at a very high elevation of approximately 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level.
Yes, you can drive to El Tatio Geysers on your own, but it's crucial to have a 4x4 vehicle due to the extremely rough and unpaved road conditions. Many visitors opt for tours for convenience and to avoid potential vehicle damage.
Some reviews mention that there are other geysers in the region that are free to visit, but they are generally less accessible and less developed than El Tatio.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for El Tatio Geysers is approximately 15,000 Chilean pesos per adult and around 5,000 Chilean pesos for children. It's advisable to confirm current pricing before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased at the gate upon arrival. It's recommended to have Chilean Pesos in cash, as card payments may not always be accepted.
El Tatio Geysers are best visited at dawn, so tours and access usually start very early in the morning, often before sunrise. The site remains active throughout the day, but the visual spectacle is most dramatic in the early hours.
According to some traveler reports, it's best to bring Chilean Pesos in cash for the entrance fee, as credit card facilities may not be available or reliable at the gate.
Yes, there are discounted entrance fees for children, typically around 5,000 Chilean pesos, compared to the adult fee of approximately 15,000 Chilean pesos.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You must dress in very warm layers. Temperatures can be well below freezing, even in summer. Pack a heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal underwear. Waterproof outer layers are also a good idea.
Due to the high elevation (4,300m), altitude sickness is a significant concern. It's recommended to acclimatize in San Pedro de Atacama for a few days before visiting. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol. Some tours offer guides experienced in recognizing and managing altitude sickness.
Yes, there is a designated natural hot spring pool where visitors can bathe. It's a unique experience to soak in warm water while surrounded by the geyser field. Remember to bring your swimsuit and a towel.
You can often spot llamas grazing in the vicinity of the geyser field. Keep an eye out for other native Andean wildlife as well. They make for great photo opportunities.
Basic facilities, including restrooms, are usually available at the El Tatio Geysers site. However, they are generally quite rudimentary.
📸 📸 Photography
The absolute best time for photography is at dawn. The cold morning air creates dramatic, thick steam plumes rising from the geysers, which is visually stunning against the rising sun. The lunar-like landscape also looks incredible in the early morning light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the geyser field and the surrounding mountains. A tripod can be very useful for low-light conditions at dawn and for capturing sharper images of the steam. Consider a camera that performs well in cold temperatures.
The entire geyser field offers incredible photographic opportunities. Focus on the contrast between the steaming geysers, the rugged Andean landscape, and any wildlife like llamas. The bathing pool also offers unique shots.
To capture the steam best, shoot during the coldest parts of the day (dawn) when the temperature difference is greatest. Experiment with different shutter speeds to freeze the steam or create a sense of movement. Backlighting the steam can also create beautiful effects.
The main challenges are the extreme cold, which can affect camera batteries, and the low light conditions at dawn. The rough road can also be a concern for equipment if not packed securely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the geysers are fascinating, the extreme cold might make it less enjoyable for very young children. The opportunity to soak in the hot springs can be a highlight for kids, but supervise them closely. Consider if your child is sensitive to high altitudes; if so, consult a pediatrician before your trip. Opting for a tour can simplify logistics, allowing parents to focus on their children's comfort and safety.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're adventurous and have a suitable vehicle, self-driving can be cheaper than a tour, but factor in fuel costs and potential wear and tear on your car. Research free alternatives in the region if budget is a major constraint, though these are typically less accessible and developed. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help reduce on-site spending.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing the contrast between the steaming geysers and the stark Andean landscape. Experiment with different angles and compositions. The natural hot springs also offer unique photographic opportunities. Don't forget to include any wildlife, like llamas, in your shots for added interest. Remember to protect your camera from moisture and dust.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Geysers
The visual spectacle is most pronounced at dawn because the extreme temperature difference between the geyser's steam and the frigid morning air (often below freezing) causes the steam to condense into thick, visible clouds. This phenomenon is what makes the early morning visit so highly recommended by travelers and guides alike. The landscape itself is often described as lunar-like, adding to the otherworldly experience of witnessing these natural wonders.
While the main geyser field is the primary attraction, the surrounding area also offers opportunities to see native wildlife, such as llamas, grazing peacefully. The presence of natural hot springs also allows visitors to enjoy a unique bathing experience amidst this dramatic geothermal landscape.
Altitude Sickness: What You Need to Know
The best defense against altitude sickness is acclimatization. Spend at least 2-3 days in San Pedro de Atacama (which is at a lower elevation) before heading to the geysers. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your trip, and avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Some travelers find that chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea can help alleviate symptoms, though this is a traditional remedy.
If you are prone to altitude sickness or have pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before your trip. Many tour operators are experienced in recognizing and managing altitude sickness, and some may carry oxygen. If you start experiencing severe symptoms, it's important to descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Navigating the Terrain: Tours vs. Self-Drive
Many visitors opt for organized tours for good reason. Tour operators provide vehicles equipped to handle the terrain, often 4x4s, and their drivers are experienced with the road. Tours also handle logistics like early morning pickups, entrance fees, and often include breakfast. This is particularly beneficial for those concerned about vehicle damage or navigating the difficult conditions, especially in adverse weather.
If you choose to self-drive, ensure you have a robust 4x4 vehicle. Check your tires, brakes, and suspension before you go. Be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride, and consider the risks involved, especially if traveling alone or during inclement weather. Some reviews suggest that even a two-wheel-drive vehicle can manage under normal conditions, but a 4x4 offers significantly more peace of mind and comfort.
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