Chile : Hot Springs Guide : Baths of Puritama

The Baths of Puritama, the indigenous word for "hot water", are situated in the heart of the Atacama desert, approx. 19 miles (30 km) north of San Pedro de Atacama, and 11,398 ft. (3,475 m) above sea level. The Atacaman Town Council took over the administration of these baths a few years ago and is currently in charge of maintaining the area's facilities.

These hot springs were discovered centuries ago by the local residents, but they opened to the public for tourism only a few years ago, allowing the hot springs to preserve their original purity and charm. Surrounded by desert, the Baths of Puritama boast modern, comfortable facilities that are ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxing amidst nature in an impressive desert landscape.

To get there you should leave from the town of San Pedro and follow the road that leads to the Tatio Geysers until you arrive at a detour that takes you to the Baths. If you are traveling there on your own you must have a private or rented vehicle since there is no public transportation from San Pedro, except taxis.

These waters are warm, refreshing, and revitalizing and flow up from under the ground at temperatures close to 91.4°F (33°C). The Baths of Puritama are sulfuric and are recommended for the relief of rheumatic illnesses and to combat stress and fatigue.

The area that surrounds the Baths of Puritama is famous around the world for its archeological deposits, especially San Pedro de Atacama which was declared a "Typical Zone" in 1980. Some nearby attractions that also offer some mystery include the Valley of the Moon, unique landscapes such as the Atacama Salt Flat, famous handicraft towns like Toconao, and other fantastical places like Los Flamencos Reserve and the Tatio Geysers.

If you are driving an automobile that is suitable for the region's dirt roads you may be able to visit all the attractions near the Baths of Puritama. There are also vehicle tours and hiking specials through the desert that pass by all the important and well-known places in and around San Pedro de Atacama.

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Hotels

Explora Atacama Hotel San Pedro de Atacama Explora´s architecture evokes the nature and culture of Atacama, where the rooms are all alike and lined up side by side. This hotel is equipped with all the necessary comforts and the best means for exploring your surroundings.
Tulor Hotel Domingo Atienza 523, San Pedro de Atacama This modern establishment was designed and constructed to harmonize with its natural environment. It boasts 9 comfortable rooms with private bath and terrace, constructed from natural materials within the area.
Kimal Hotel Domingo Atienza, no #, San Pedro de Atacama The Kimal Hotel is a labyrinth of volcanic rock and adobe structures, situated in the center of the town of San Pedro de Atacama, just steps away from the plaza. It provides all the services you need to enjoy a relaxing vacation.
La Casa de Don Tomás Tocopilla, no #, San Pedro de Atacama Located amidst the magical surroundings of the archeological area of San Pedro and owner of the charming Atacaman architectural style, these characteristics turn La Casa de Don Tomás into a pleasant and comfortable establishment that offers tranquility and quality service to its guests.

Tours

Facilities

The thermal center is found in a ravine encircled by desert vegetation and boasts outdoor pools, a pool with a waterfall, sauna, baths that are connected to pools by wooden footbridges, and changing rooms.

Water Characteristics

• Hypothermic waters (91.4ºF/33°C)
• Sulfated

Indications

• Rheumatism
• Rheumatic illnesses

Discrepancies

• Unknown

Applications

Thermal Baths

Attractions

San Pedro de Atacama, Valley of the Moon, Toconao, Los Flamencos National Reserve, Tatio Geysers

Activities

Baths, photography, hiking, excursions. Archeological excursions, visits to towns that are characteristic of Chile's Big North Region.