TATIO GEISERS

Here in the Andes Mountains, you can explore the world’s highest geyser field (4,300 m above sea level).  The steam vapors, which can reach up to 50 m, provide a stunning forefront to the multicolored Andes.  Here the elegant strutting vicunas (an American camelid) has adapted to living in climatic and geographical extremes.

The Tatio Geysers have been formed as a result of the mixture of mountain water and magma.  The mountain water seeps through the cracks of the Earth’s cortex, reaching deep hot zones, and finally coming into contact with magma.  Once coming in contact with the magma, the water brusquely turns into vapor or boiling water, in turn provoking steaming fumaroles.

On the way back to Atacama, you get a stunning view of the mountains and volcanoes standing over 5,500 m above sea level, in addition to the important bird fauna in the small rivers that lead to the great Atacama Salt Lake.

Located 4,500 m above sea level, these beautiful lagoons are a stunning forefront to the Andes Mountains.  They are home to unique flora and fauna that can only be found in the protected northern areas.  Due to the area’s high altitude, you’re able to be in close proximity to the mountains and volcanoes, some of which are sacred and have inspired beautiful Atacama Desert legends. 

On the way to these lagoons is the Socaire population, which has maintained its ancestors’ traditions and still uses the old Andean terrace agricultural system to raise crops.

Caspana is an important Altiplano population that conserves agricultural and irrigation techniques dating back to the Incas.  From the terraces, you are able to view the diverse agricultural products that are sold in nearby cities. 

The town of Chiu Chiu (located 33 km from Calama) is home to the Chiu Chiu Lagoon.

The Pukara de Lasana was a prehistoric fort that is still home to narrow streets and old structures.  It’s located 10 km from Chiu Chiu and 1560 m above sea level.

Geologic studies consider this salt lake to be the most important lithium reserve in the world - 40% to be exact.  This white and rugged land is home to shallow lagoons, which numerous flamingos use as their mating grounds.  The land is also home to small settlements protected by small tracks of water.  One of the settlements is the picturesque town of Tocanao, home to original architecture constructed of the liparta stone - the most important construction being the old church.  In this town, you are welcomed to stroll through the streets and visit the natives who specialize in fine wool handicrafts.

These hot springs are a welcoming break following a day of exploration.  Rich in minerals and at a temperature of 35º C, the baths will relax you after a long day of travel which began early in the morning.  Robes, towels, and a cocktail are provided to guests.

San Pedro de Atacama is considered the archaeological capital of Chile due to human settlement here 12 million years ago.  Here important ceramic pieces, as well as mummies, were collected by Father Le Paige during his excavations.  These archaeological remains show the different stages of evolution of the Atacamenian culture. 

In the 7th century, the indigenous people constructed the Pukara de Quitor fortress to defend themselves from possible enemy attacks from outside invasions or by neighboring groups. 

The village of Tulor, the oldest habitational enclosure of the region, was occupied between 300 and 500 BC.

This mineral pit consists of two open copper mines.  The deepest mine measures 4,300 m long, 3,000 m wide, and 750 m deep.