El Tatio Geysers
Atacama
El Tatio Geysers is a vast geothermal field situated at 4,320 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains of northern Chile. It is the third-largest geyser field globally and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, featuring approximately 80 active geysers among numerous hot springs and sinter terraces. The geysers emit steam and water at temperatures near boiling point adjusted for altitude, creating an otherworldly landscape of steaming vents and mineral deposits. The field lies at the western foot of a volcanic chain forming part of the Central Volcanic Zone, with several high stratovolcanoes nearby. El Tatio is ecologically significant as a habitat for extremophile microorganisms and has been studied as an analogue for early Earth and potential Martian life. It is a major tourist attraction in northern Chile, drawing visitors who often combine their visit with excursions to the Atacama Desert and San Pedro de Atacama. Despite historical geothermal prospecting efforts, development of geothermal power was halted after a 2009 incident involving a well blowout. The name "El Tatio" derives from the nearly extinct Kunza language, meaning "oven," "to appear," or "grandfather," reflecting local cultural interpretations.
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Tip: The best time to visit El Tatio is early morning, around sunrise, when geyser activity is most visible due to cooler temperatures. Visitors are advised to dress warmly due to the high altitude and cold desert climate. Booking tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure access and transportation. Some tours offer discounts for early bookings or group visits. Visitors should bring water, sun protection, and be prepared for limited facilities at the site.
Interesting facts
- •El Tatio is the third-largest geyser field in the world and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
- •The geysers emit water at approximately 86°C, which is the boiling point at the high altitude of over 4,300 meters.
- •The field contains about 80 active geysers, representing roughly 8% of the world's total geysers.
- •El Tatio's geothermal vents host extremophile microorganisms studied as analogues for early Earth and possible Martian life.
- •The name "El Tatio" comes from the Kunza language and can mean 'oven', 'to appear', or 'grandfather'.
- •The geyser field is situated within a tectonic graben about 4 km wide and 6 km long, surrounded by stratovolcanoes reaching over 5,000 meters in elevation.
History
El Tatio has been known since at least the late 19th century, with early mentions in academic literature dating back to 1943.
Geothermal prospecting began in the 1920s and intensified between 1967 and 1982.
The area was historically traversed by an Inca trail and hosted a mountain sanctuary, indicating its cultural significance.
The geothermal field lies within a tectonic graben flanked by volcanic formations that have shaped its geothermal activity over millions of years.
A notable event in recent history was a 2009 geothermal well blowout that caused political controversy and halted power development plans.
Place Guide
Main Terrace
The largest area of the geothermal field, covering around 5 square kilometers, featuring the highest concentration of geysers and large sinter terraces. This zone includes the tallest geyser observed, reaching heights up to 5 meters, and some geysers with predictable eruption intervals.
Middle Terrace
Located immediately south of the Main Terrace, this silica-rich plain contains deep pools up to 3 meters deep with continuous, short eruptions resembling fountains. The geyser activity here is erratic in timing and height.
Lower Terrace (River Group)
Situated about 2 kilometers downstream near the Rio Salado, this area has fewer silica deposits and features some underground geysers and around 10 springs erupting close to the river, with water jets reaching 1 to 3 meters high. Some eruptions occur within river channels, depositing sediments on riverbanks.
Contact
Phone: 9 5215 4756
