Enjoy a 30-minute hike along the Puritima River, learn about the native vegetation and wildlife, and soak in a thermal pool.

## Unforgettable Exploration of the Atacama Desert and the Puritama River Canyon

Prepare yourself for an enriching four-and-a-half-hour excursion into the heart of the awe-inspiring **Atacama Desert**, a landscape of unparalleled beauty and geological wonder. This journey will lead you to the captivating **Puritama River Canyon**, a hidden gem sculpted by time and nature’s artistry. Your experience will involve a refreshing hike alongside the river, culminating in the ultimate relaxation in naturally heated thermal pools.

The adventure often commences with a convenient pick-up service from a designated meeting location within **San Pedro de Atacama**, a charming oasis town nestled amidst the desert’s vast expanse. Here, you will be greeted by your experienced and bilingual guide, whose expertise will enrich your understanding of the environment and its history. The guide will then transport you to the trailhead, the starting point for your immersive exploration of the canyon.

The hike itself typically involves a leisurely half-an-hour trek alongside the **Puritama River**. As you wander along the canyon floor, absorb the unique atmosphere and allow your knowledgeable guide to unveil the secrets of the native vegetation and the intriguing wildlife that manages to flourish in this arid environment. Keep an eye out for unique desert flora and fauna, each uniquely adapted to the challenging conditions.

The culmination of your trek will be the much-anticipated arrival at the thermal pool. Here, you will be granted approximately two hours to luxuriate in the naturally heated, mineral-rich waters. Allow the soothing warmth to melt away your stresses and embrace the tranquility of your surroundings.

Once your revitalizing soak comes to an end, you will be comfortably transported back to **San Pedro de Atacama**, where you can reflect upon the memories created during this unforgettable experience.

### Unveiling the Highlights of Your Journey

* Embark on a thrilling half-hour trek through the surreal landscape of the **Atacama Desert**, a place of stark beauty and geological wonders.
* Deepen your understanding of the **Puritama River Canyon’s** remarkable native flora and fauna, learning about the intricate ecosystem that thrives in this arid environment. Discover the secrets of desert survival!
* Indulge in the ultimate relaxation by soaking in a thermal pool filled with crystalline, naturally heated water – a true oasis in the desert.
* Relish the convenience of seamless transportation to and from the canyon, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without any logistical concerns.

### Essential Information to Ensure a Smooth Experience

* **Duration:** The complete excursion lasts approximately four and a half hours, encompassing the journey to and from the canyon, the hike, and the time spent relaxing in the thermal pool.
* **Recommended for:** Individuals of all ages are welcome to participate in this enriching experience, making it an ideal activity for families and groups of friends.
* **Group Size:** The tour is conducted in a small group setting, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience with the guide and the surroundings.
* **Food & Drink:** A light snack is provided during the excursion to replenish your energy and keep you refreshed throughout the journey.

### A Detailed Glimpse into Your Itinerary

Your adventure typically commences in **San Pedro de Atacama**, where you will rendezvous with your guide at a pre-arranged meeting point. From there, you’ll embark on a comfortable bus or minibus ride, traversing nearly 28 miles (45 kilometers) through the dramatic terrain of the **Atacama Desert**. The journey itself offers captivating views of the surrounding landscape.

After approximately 45 minutes of scenic driving, you’ll arrive at the gateway to the **Puritama River Canyon**, the starting point for your hiking expedition.

Upon disembarking from the vehicle, you’ll be immediately captivated by the mesmerizing scenery that unfolds before you. Observe the cascading waterfalls, the inviting natural pools boasting hydrothermal properties, and the towering canyon walls, sculpted over millennia by the relentless forces of erosion.

From this vantage point, you’ll commence your half-hour trek along the canyon floor, following in the footsteps of the ancient Atacameño people. For centuries, they revered the therapeutic waters of the river, utilizing them to alleviate various ailments and promote well-being. As you traverse the canyon, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the diverse flora and fauna that have ingeniously adapted to thrive in this demanding desert ecosystem. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the resilience of life in extreme environments.

Ultimately, your journey will lead you to a thermal pool shimmering with crystal-clear water. Here, you’ll be granted nearly two hours of unadulterated free time to unwind, immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters, and savor a delightful snack. Let the warm, mineral-rich waters soothe your muscles and rejuvenate your senses.

When the allotted time has elapsed, your guide will escort you back to **San Pedro de Atacama**, bringing your memorable excursion to a fulfilling conclusion. This experience will undoubtedly leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of the **Atacama Desert** and the revitalizing properties of the **Puritama River Canyon**.

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