A Refreshing Escape to the Puritama Hot Springs: What You Need to Know

If you’re visiting San Pedro de Atacama and craving a break from the dusty desert landscape, the Puritama Hot Springs offer a soothing retreat. For $88 per person, this 4-hour tour includes transportation and tickets to these naturally heated pools, making it a popular choice for those wanting to unwind and soak in mineral-rich waters. The pools, set within a canyon environment surrounded by fox tails, are a highlight, with temperatures hovering between 28° and 31°C, perfect for relaxing regardless of age or fitness level.

What we love about this tour is the scenic setting—you’ll enjoy the quiet of the canyon and the sight of eight natural pools, each offering a different vibe. Plus, the mineral content of the water, rich in calcium, magnesium, sodium, and boron, promises revitalizing benefits you might feel even after just one soak. An additional perk is the convenient pickup service, which takes you comfortably from your hotel to the springs, eliminating the hassle of organizing transport.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour can be hit or miss—reviews suggest some travelers have experienced booking issues or delays, which can dampen the experience. Also, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to plan some snacks or a meal afterward if you’re hungry.

This tour suits travelers who are looking for a simple, relaxing outing with minimal fuss, especially if they value scenic natural pools and a peaceful setting. It’s great for families, couples, or anyone wanting a gentle break in their desert adventure.

Key Points

Relaxing mineral pools with temperatures around 28°-31°C provide a soothing experience.
Scenic canyon setting enhances the peaceful atmosphere and offers beautiful natural views.
Transportation included simplifies logistics, with pickup from your hotel or accommodation.
Limited included amenities—lunch isn’t covered, so plan accordingly.
Variable reviews highlight the importance of reliable booking and communication.
Suitable for most travelers seeking a tranquil, natural experience.

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A Closer Look at the Puritama Hot Springs Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides air-conditioned transportation from your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, along with tickets to the springs. The total duration is about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the environment without feeling rushed. Notably, lunch is not included, so many travelers bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail

The main attraction is Termas Banos de Puritama, a series of eight natural pools carved into the landscape, set within a canyon. The pools, with their hot waters, are suitable for all ages, making this an ideal outing for families or those seeking gentle relaxation.

The pools are surrounded by fox tails and the scenery is stunning, with rock formations and mountain views creating a tranquil backdrop. The water’s mineral content—calcium, magnesium, sodium, and boron—adds a healthful element, which many visitors find revitalizing.

What Travelers Can Expect at Each Stop

Once at the site, you’ll have time to wade between the pools, each offering a slightly different temperature and ambiance. The experience is about soaking and unwinding—no strenuous activities here. Many find the setting quiet and peaceful, perfect for disconnecting from the busyness of travel.

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Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated with small groups, capped at 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the transfer comfortable, especially after a day of exploring the desert. The pickup service is a significant convenience, especially if you’re staying in central San Pedro.

Authenticity and Experience

While the core experience is quite standard—nothing overly elaborate—many travelers appreciate the natural setting. The pools are not artificially enhanced, maintaining their authenticity, and the setting within a canyon adds to the sense of a true natural oasis.

Review Highlights and Challenges

One recent reviewer described their experience as a “nightmare,” citing issues with no-shows and rebooking delays, which underscores the importance of confirming your reservation beforehand. Conversely, another reviewer enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere, saying, “it was relaxing and interesting to share with my daughters in such a peaceful environment.”

The Value Perspective

At $88, the price covers transportation and entry, which is reasonable considering the remote location and the cost of organizing a similar self-guided trip. Still, considering the mixed reviews, it’s important to weigh the value against potential booking frustrations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking relaxation rather than adventure. It’s ideal for those who want a peaceful, scenic setting to unwind after busy days touring the desert or archaeological sites. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who value natural beauty and mineral-rich waters will likely find this a worthwhile outing.

If you’re prone to booking issues or last-minute changes, you might want to confirm your reservation well in advance or consider alternative options. Also, be prepared to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward, as lunch isn’t included.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Puritama Hot Springs tour offers a genuinely relaxing experience in a beautiful canyon setting. The key attractions—the series of natural pools and tranquil scenery—deliver exactly what many travelers seek in a quick nature escape.

While the experience’s value depends on your expectations and how well your booking process goes, it remains a popular choice for those wanting to soak in mineral waters surrounded by stunning landscapes. The small group size and transportation included make it a convenient option for most visitors, especially those who appreciate a peaceful, natural environment.

However, careful planning and confirmation are advisable to avoid the pitfalls some travelers have encountered. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and relaxing outing that complements your desert adventure, the Puritama Hot Springs are worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and pickup from your hotel or accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is approximately 4 hours, including travel time and time spent at the hot springs.

Are lunch and other meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring snacks or eat afterward.

Can I visit the hot springs with children?
Yes, the pools are suitable for the whole family, as the water temperatures are gentle and safe for children.

What is the best time of day to visit?
Most tours operate in the afternoon, between 1 PM and 1:30 PM pickup, but check for confirmation. The late afternoon often offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

What should I bring for the visit?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and snacks if desired. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection.

To sum it up, the Puritama Hot Springs tour offers a peaceful, scenic experience with mineral-rich waters perfect for relaxing after days of exploring the Atacama. While booking reliability can be an issue, careful planning and realistic expectations will help ensure you enjoy this natural oasis. If your goal is gentle relaxation amid stunning landscapes, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.