Puritama Hot Springs Tour: A Relaxing Day in the Atacama Desert

If you’re exploring San Pedro de Atacama and craving a tranquil escape, a visit to the Puritama Hot Springs might seem like a perfect choice. Priced at around $50 per person and lasting about 4.5 hours, this tour offers a chance to soak in warm thermal waters surrounded by striking desert landscapes. Your journey begins from Caracoles, with a comfortable van ride through the arid terrain leading to this natural oasis.

What we like most about this experience is the scenic drive that gradually shifts from dusty desert to lush vegetation near the springs, and the natural pools themselves, which are set amidst interesting rock formations. Plus, the light lunch served overlooking the vast, quiet desert is a simple but lovely touch. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the inconsistency in the experience, as some travelers report issues like unreliable transfers or unexpected extra costs. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxing, scenic break from more active outings, and who are comfortable handling some variability in service quality.

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Key Points

Relax in thermal waters amid stunning desert scenery.
Comfortable transportation included for easy access.
Free time allows for personal exploration and relaxation.
Light lunch offers a nice break with desert views.
Expert guide provides insights into local geology and flora.
Potential for service issues, such as transfer reliability and extra costs.

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An In-Depth Look at the Puritama Hot Springs Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from Caracoles, a common starting hub for many excursions in San Pedro. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for a roughly 40-minute ride through the desert landscape. The ride itself is a chance to get a sense of the surroundings — from rocky outcroppings to sparse vegetation typical of the Atacama.

However, some reviews highlight issues with transfers — one traveler recounted, “My transfer didn’t arrive at the place and then they didn’t answer me,” which can be frustrating. It’s worth confirming your pickup details in advance or having a backup plan just in case.

Arrival at Puritama Hot Springs

Once at Puritama, you’ll find a series of natural pools fed by thermal waters — the main draw. The pools are set amidst boulders and lush greenery, creating a surprisingly tranquil scene considering the surrounding desert. The water temperature is generally warm, ideal for relaxing, though some visitors note it may not be as hot as expected — possibly due to recent rain or other factors. One reviewer said, “It was cool to be in them but nowhere near as warm as expected,” which might leave you wishing for a bit more heat, especially if your main goal is soaking.

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Free Time and Exploration

The tour allocates about three hours of free time for visitors to soak, stroll around, or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery. The pools vary in size and depth, so you can choose a spot that suits your comfort level. No showers are available, so be prepared for a possibly chilly exit — some find this a bit of a shock after the warm water.

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The Lunch with a View

After soaking, you’ll enjoy a light lunch overlooking the desert. This is a simple but pleasant way to break up the experience, giving you a moment to appreciate the stark beauty of the landscape while enjoying a snack.

Guided Tour and Explanations

Your guide will provide insights into the local geology and flora, which adds an educational component to the trip. This enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in understanding the natural environment of the region.

Additional Considerations and Potential Downsides

While many find the experience relaxing and picturesque, some reviews reveal disappointing moments. For example, one traveler mentioned, “they claimed they were shut” when trying to get food at the cafeteria, and “no showers” meant a chilly return trip.

Another point to keep in mind is the cost of entrance tickets, which are not included in the tour price — adding to the overall expense. For those expecting snacks and drinks like other tours, be aware that this tour may fall short, as some guests have reported not receiving any refreshments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxing escape and enjoy scenic, natural environments without intense physical activity. It’s ideal for those interested in geology and nature but who are tolerant of some service inconsistencies. If your priority is soaking in thermal waters with great vistas and minimal effort, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. However, if you expect perfect service or hot, well-maintained pools, you might find yourself a bit disappointed.

The Experience from Our Perspective

We loved the beautiful scenery and the chance to unwind amid the desert’s quiet beauty. The pools offer a genuine sense of relaxation, and the lunch overlooking the landscape is a simple delight. That said, the uncertainties in transfer reliability and lack of amenities like showers are worth noting. Be prepared for the possibility that the water might not be as hot as hoped, especially if recent weather has cooled things down.

In terms of value, $50 for the transport, access, and guide feels reasonable, but keep in mind the additional costs for entrance tickets and potential disappointment if the facilities are closed or the water temperature isn’t ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Puritama Hot Springs Tour offers a peaceful break in a stunning setting, combining nature, comfort, and a touch of education. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize scenic relaxation over luxury or perfect service. If you’re prepared for some variability and enjoy soaking in natural waters with desert views, this tour can be a memorable part of your Atacama experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, comfortable transportation from Caracoles to the hot springs is included, but be aware of potential issues with transfer reliability based on reviews.

How long do I get to stay at the hot springs?
You’ll have about three hours of free time to relax, explore, or take photos at the pools.

Are food and drinks included?
No, a light lunch is provided, but snacks and drinks are not included or guaranteed. Some guests have found that the cafeteria was often closed.

What is the water temperature like?
The thermal waters are warm and relaxing, but some visitors mention they’re not as hot as expected, possibly due to recent weather or natural conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but consider the walking involved and the cold showers if heading back to the van.

Do I need to buy entrance tickets separately?
Yes, entrance fees to the hot springs are not included in the tour price, so plan for this additional expense.

In the end, the Puritama Hot Springs tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and culturally interesting way to enjoy part of the Atacama Desert’s natural beauty. Just keep your expectations in check regarding service consistency and facilities, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your trip.