Information
Landmark: Termas de PuritamaCity: Arica
Country: Chile
Continent: South America
Termas de Puritama, Arica, Chile, South America
Overview
About 30 kilometers north of San Pedro de Atacama, the Termas de Puritama shimmer in the desert heat-a breathtaking cluster of natural sizzling springs tucked deep in Chile’s Atacama Desert, what’s more warm mineral-rich water fills these thermal pools, tucked into a canyon where red rock rises against the sky, creating a rare mix of deep relaxation and wild beauty in one of the driest corners of the planet.Not surprisingly, The Puritama warm Springs draw their warmth from geothermal water, heated deep underground by volcanic forces that leave the air faintly smelling of minerals, at the same time the water stays between 28°C and 33°C (82°F to 91°F), warm enough that slipping in feels like sinking into a sunlit pool.Tucked into a rocky canyon, the pools sit among thick stands of green totoras and sparse desert shrubs, forming a quiet oasis in Chile’s dry Atacama, therefore the water’s minerals-magnesium, sodium, and a trace of lithium-are thought to soothe tired muscles and leave skin feeling smooth.Eight natural pools link together through trickling waterfalls, with wooden walkways winding between them, in turn changing rooms and quiet rest areas stocked with the basics-a bench, fresh towels, and a cool quaff.Between swims, you can stretch out on a bench or sink into the cool shade and rest, while we keep visitor numbers low, so you can wander in quiet paths and never feel crowded.Morning’s the best time to go-cool desert air, quiet paths, and the sweltering water feels even better against the chill, simultaneously by afternoon, the air warms, a welcome change for anyone who enjoys gentler shifts-like stepping from a shaded porch into soft sunshine.Interestingly, The springs stay warm enough for a dip even in winter, making them a spot you can enjoy any time of year, also you can unwind in the warm thermal pools, letting the mineral-rich water ease your muscles as steam curls into the air.A photograph captures the sharp contrast between the lush green canyon and the dry, rust-colored sands of the Atacama Desert, therefore hike the nearby trails and you might spot a spiny cactus blooming or catch a glimpse of a jackrabbit darting through the brush.You can picnic in the designated spots, but be sure to bring your own snacks and a bottle of water, as a result you can reach it by car in about 45 minutes, driving from San Pedro de Atacama along Route B-245, where the road cuts through rust-red desert hills.As it turns out, By tour, you can book with a local operator who’ll handle the ride and get you through the gate, therefore by bike, adventurous visitors sometimes pedal their way up, but the climb’s steep enough to make your legs burn.Entry fees change with the season and the day-weekdays cost a bit less, while weekends run higher, equally important it’s best to book ahead-especially in high season, when tables fill rapid.Please don’t use soap or shampoo in the pools-keep the water clear and the air free of that harsh, chemical smell, at the same time stick to the marked paths so the fragile ecosystem stays intact-crushed wildflowers don’t recover overnight.Keep visitor numbers low so the trails stay quiet and the scent of pine hangs in the air, also in the heart of the Atacama Desert, the Termas de Puritama offers a rare retreat where steaming mineral pools meet sweeping golden sands, blending natural beauty with pure relaxation and wellness.Stay for a few hours or linger all day, letting the warm mineral waters soak into your skin, and you’ll find this hidden oasis perfect for travelers who crave both excitement and calm.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-10-07
