Canyon Warmth: Soaking in Puritama’s Thermal Pools Beneath the Atacama Sky
A warm-water refuge carved into an Andean canyon—how to soak smart in the driest desert on Earth.
The first breath of hot mineral steam hits your face just as the valley narrows and the noise of the desert softens into a single, confident trickle. You’ve driven out of San Pedro de Atacama along a rutted road, past scrub and salt flats, until the landscape submits to a green ribbon: the Puritama River cutting a cool, improbable line through ochre canyon walls. Eight stepped pools have been carved into this canyon—man-made platforms and natural basins where water that has traveled deep beneath the Altiplano rises warm to the surface. Step in and the hot springs take your weight, the water cupping you like a small, steady tide. The desert sun dries your hair while steam threads off the pools, and the canyon seems to exhale around you.
Trail Wisdom
Go early or late
Beat the crowds and catch the best light by visiting at first opening or late afternoon; midday fills quickly during high season.
Bring water shoes
Pool bottoms and connecting boardwalks can be uneven—water shoes give traction and protect toes.
Acclimate first
Spend a day in San Pedro before visiting to reduce altitude effects and enjoy your soak more fully.
No soap, no shampoo
The springs are fed by limited groundwater—avoid any soaps or lotions to protect water quality.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upstream pools and short canyon overlooks a few minutes' walk above the main complex
- •Sunset viewpoints along the access road with panoramic silhouettes of distant volcanoes
Wildlife
vicuña, Andean fox
Conservation Note
Visitor numbers are regulated and there are strict rules against soaps or detergents to protect the springs' water quality and the fragile desert ecosystem.
Local Likan Antai communities have long used the region's scarce water sources; modern visitor management works with municipal authorities to protect those resources.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: pleasant daytime temperatures, fewer tourists than peak summer, wildflower hints in the high desert
Challenges: cool mornings and evenings, possible wind gusts
Spring offers mild days ideal for soaking and daylight exploration but pack layers for chilly mornings and wind.
summer
Best for: long daylight hours, pairing with other high-altitude day trips, easiest road access
Challenges: higher visitor numbers, strong sun and UV exposure
Summer is busy and bright—book ahead and prioritize shade, hydration, and sun protection.
fall
Best for: crisp, clear days, dramatic sunsets, calmer crowds after high season
Challenges: cooling nights, potential for wind
Autumn balances good weather and lighter crowds; evenings are cooler, so time your soak accordingly.
winter
Best for: solitude and stillness, star-filled nights after an evening soak
Challenges: cold air temperatures between pools, shorter daylight hours
Wintry air can be sharp; the contrast between hot water and cold desert air is memorable but requires warm layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
SwimsuitEssential
Basic requirement for soaking—choose quick-dry material for comfort between pools.
Water shoes or sandals with gripEssential
Protects feet on uneven rock and slippery pool bottoms and gives traction on stairs and boardwalks.
Insulating layer (fleece or light jacket)Essential
Useful for the chill between soaks, especially in mornings or evenings.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)Essential
High-altitude sun is intense—protect skin and eyes during walks and time outside the pools.
Common Questions
How far is Puritama from San Pedro de Atacama?
About 33 km (roughly 20 miles); plan on a 30–45 minute drive depending on road conditions.
Are there entry fees or opening hours?
Yes—there is an entrance fee and set visiting hours managed on-site; check current fees and book ahead in high season.
Can I swim in all the pools?
Yes, the pools are designed for soaking rather than lap swimming; temperatures vary between basins, so test before settling in.
Is Puritama accessible for people with mobility issues?
The site includes boardwalks and stairs; some areas have steps and uneven surfaces, so access is limited for those requiring fully level paths.
Is the water safe and treated?
The springs are natural mineral waters; while managed and monitored, avoid ingesting the water and follow site guidelines for hygiene and safety.
Can I combine Puritama with other Atacama tours?
Yes—many travelers schedule Puritama as a half-day stop or end-of-day soak combined with geyser tours, Valle de la Luna, or stargazing excursions.
What to Pack
Swimsuit and towel for soaking; water shoes for traction; sunscreen and hat for high UV exposure; insulated layer for cool air between soaks.
Did You Know
Puritama Hot Springs comprises a series of roughly eight terraced pools in a narrow canyon and is located about 33 km from San Pedro de Atacama, fed by hydrothermal groundwater rising through volcanic rock.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-afternoon slots; carry small bills for entry or snacks; acclimate in San Pedro before visiting; avoid soaps and toiletries in the water.
Local Flavor
San Pedro’s markets sell woven textiles, llama-fiber garments, and local snacks like quinoa empanadas; nearby cafes serve Andean-inflected dishes and strong coffee—perfect after an evening soak.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: ~33 km from San Pedro de Atacama • Drive time: 30–45 minutes • Entry fee: yes (on-site) • Terrain: short boardwalks and stairs • Best time: early morning/late afternoon • Accessibility: limited in places
Sustainability Note
Respect visitor guidelines: no soaps, stay on defined paths, and support local management efforts that balance public access with groundwater protection.