Puritama River Gorge Hiking Tour

On this hiking route along the Puritama River, we will follow the Atacameño people's search for waters with curative properties and enjoy bathing in its natural pools.

Puritama River Gorge Hiking Tour

At the designated time, we will meet at unit 2, 429B Tocopilla Street in San Pedro de Atacama to travel 45 kilometres (27 miles) by bus to the valley of the Puritama River, one of the torrents of the Chilean Altiplano.

This riverbed features numerous waterfalls and natural pools, some with hydrothermal properties. Erosion has shaped the river basin into high walls, creating an impressive canyon.

We will walk along the Puritama River gorge for half an hour, tracing the footsteps of the Atacameño people who have utilized the river's therapeutic waters for ailments since ancient times. The route allows us to observe the native flora and fauna of the Chilean altiplano.

At the end of the hike, a thermal pool of crystalline waters will be available for a relaxing dip for two hours. After this, the bus will return us to San Pedro de Atacama, arriving at the town's small square 4 hours after departure.