Puritama River Gorge Hiking Tour

On this hiking route along the Puritama River, we'll follow the Atacameño people in search of waters with curative properties. You will also be able to bathe in its natural pools.

Puritama River Gorge Hiking Tour

At the indicated time, we will meet at unit 2, 429B Tocopilla Street in San Pedro de Atacama to head towards the valley of the Puritama River, one of the torrents of the Chilean Altiplano. We will travel 45 kilometres (27 miles) by bus to the hike's starting point.

This riverbed is characterized by its numerous waterfalls and natural pools, some of which have hydrothermal properties. Erosion has caused the river basin to be flanked by high walls that form an impressive canyon.

We will walk along the Puritama River gorge for half an hour, following in the footsteps of the Atacameño people, who have used the therapeutic waters of the river to treat ailments for centuries. During the route, we will observe the characteristic flora and fauna of this area of the Chilean Altiplano.

At the end of the route, a thermal pool of crystalline waters awaits, where you will have two hours of free time to relax. Afterwards, the bus will pick us up to take us back to San Pedro de Atacama, arriving at the small square in the town 4 hours after departure.