Puritama Hot Springs
A chain of terraced pools in a desert canyon, warm from a fault and reached by a long stair.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
The Puritama river comes out of the ground at around 30 degrees in a narrow canyon north of San Pedro, and a series of pools has been formed along it - partly natural, partly walled - stepping down the canyon floor between reeds, joined by boardwalks and stairs. The water is heated at depth along the fault system rather than by a magma body directly beneath, and the name is Kunza for warm water. The site is administered under the AtacameƱo community with numbers capped and booking required, which is a change from the days when it was a free stop on the way back from El Tatio.
What you actually see
- Terraced pools down a canyon - part natural, part walled.
- Water at around 30 degrees - warmed along the fault at depth.
- Reeds and boardwalks - between the pools.
- Capped numbers and booking - the current access arrangement.
When to go
Year round; midday is warmest for getting in and out. Half a day.
Honest expectations
Booking is required and slots sell out, particularly in high season. There is a long stairway down and back, at altitude. Prices have risen sharply. Sunscreen must be washed off before entry.
Nearby
El Tatio is further up the road; San Pedro is south.
What to pack for Puritama Hot Springs
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.