Chile's Atacama Desert Day 5

Day 05 - Sunday, March 15, 2015 - Optional Tatio Geysers Tour; Explore Valley of the Moon

We set our alarm for 4:50 am to go on the optional pre-dawn excursion to the Tatio Geysers. The stars were so bright; one could easily see the Southern Cross. Ricardo, Krasna, Christian, and six of our group set off for a two hour drive north of San Pedro.

Arriving at the Tatio Caldera at 7:30, the temperature was 38 degrees with a surprising humidity of 96%. The altitude was 13,997 feet above sea level. Several van-loads of brave souls like us were ready to brave the early morning elements in order to see the steam from these famous geysers.

The best time to photograph the full effect of the steam is during the predawn hours while the temperature differential is the greatest. Out on the caldera field, one can feel the grandeur of the ancient volcano basin crater.

We were able to spend about an hour wandering around the waterspouts, boiling water, and erupting steam. There were no rangers on patrol like in Yellowstone, only a sign that reminded everyone that the nearest hospital is in Calama, three and a half hours away.

While we explored the geyser fields with Krasna, Ricardo and Christian drove ahead to prepare a breakfast for us. The highlight was the hot chocolate that was submerged in a geyser pool to heat. Talk about a good use of geothermal energy!

We left the geyser field at 9:15 and made a stop at the registration station to use the restrooms. On the way out of the park we stopped several times for Kodak moments.

There were several herds of vicuñas living at this high altitude. Related to llamas, alpacas, and distantly to camels, they are very delicate with fine, expensive wool. We stopped at a mountain stream to photograph Puna Ducks and Giant Coots.

Our last stop of the morning was at the tiny village of Machuca to use the rest rooms. The views of the erupting Putana Volcano in the distance were spectacular in the early morning sunshine.

Ricardo had us back at our lodge at noon and Christian gave us the hotel box-breakfast to be eaten for our lunch. We had until 5:15 pm to relax, go over the photos and videos from today, and begin the journal.

We also took a walk into town for an ice cream. It was a typical Sunday afternoon with families out and about and enjoying their time together.

At 5:15 we gathered in the lodge again for a drive to the Valley of the Moon. The lunar landscape is formed by encrusted salt uplifted from ancient lake sediments. The wind is strong and has eroded the landscape into interesting configurations.

We were able to hike for about an hour in and out of the ravines and the gorgeous rock formations. There was one more final opportunity for a spectacular sunset.

We drove to Kari Overlook, a popular destination for the end of a perfect day. Ricardo and Christian had planned a sunset cocktail hour with cheese, pistachios, and raisins as well as adult beverages to celebrate our journey to the Atacama Desert.

The drive back into town was interesting as we could see thunderclouds forming over our valley. When we saw the double rainbow we knew that San Pedro had gotten some rain. Imagine our surprise to see the wet muddy streets when we arrived in town.

Ricardo let us off at the C Kunna Restaurant where we had our last dinner in the desert. After the cocktail party at sunset, neither Vic nor I were very hungry so we were able to share a meal – something we should remember to do every evening!

It was after 9:00 when we walked back to the hotel and picked up our key. We finished the journal, the GPS map, and the photos from our day’s adventure.

Tomorrow is a travel day as we drive back to Calama and then we fly to Santiago. We do not have to be out on the van until 10:00.

Accommodations: Hotel La Casa de Don Tomas- - - Meal: B & D

Your journal made me feel as if I was there walking with you. What a day!

Loved todays description of everything. Loved the hike! That little fawn was adorable. That breakfast looks interesting among the geysers! Slep well - talk tomorrow.

As always, wonderful adventures. Thank you for sharing! Love you, Dee

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