3 – Visit the World’s Highest Geyser Fields of El Tatio
El Tatio is one of the highest elevation geyser fields in the world, at about 14,000 ft in elevation. Known locally as Los Géiseres del Tatio, it is located about 90 kilometers north of San Pedro de Atacama, not far from the Bolivian border.
El Tatio has over 80 active geysers, making it the largest geyser field in the southern hemisphere and the third largest in the world. Its geysers erupt to an average height of about 75 centimeters, with the highest eruption observed at around 6 meters.
The best time to see the eruptions are in the early morning when the tall, billowing steam erupts. The large steam clouds diminish as daytime temperatures rise, but the geyser activity continues throughout. Expect to see lots of steam and gurgling sounds like a jacuzzi.
Beyond the geysers are hot springs too. These are hot pools heated by volcanic rocks which can be a welcome relief to the chilling morning temperatures.
Most tour companies will provide a hot breakfast with freshly cooked eggs, hot coffee and more.
