Reserva de Conservación Puritama

Puritama is a cluster of natural thermal pools set into a canyon along the Guatin route outside San Pedro de Atacama, run as a conservation reserve. The pools are the main draw here—warm mineral water collected in a series of connected basins, ringed by desert rock and vegetation, with wooden walkways linking them.

It's set up as a straightforward day-trip stop rather than a resort. There are changing areas, restrooms, and lockers with loaner locks, plus a small café-shop and a picnic zone for anyone who brings their own food. Parking is available but sits about 500 meters from the pools and bathroom facilities, so plan on a short walk in either direction.

The reserve runs the same hours every day of the week: morning session from 9:30 to 1:30pm, then a break before reopening from 2:30 to 6pm. A day pass system is in place, and staff speak both Spanish and English. The site is not clothing-optional and isn't restricted to hotel guests, and it's generally considered a family-friendly stop for travelers passing through the San Pedro de Atacama area. Given the altitude and desert setting, water, sun protection and a swimsuit are the practical essentials to pack before heading out.