Few people know what a geyser is, or else the vast majority have been in the presence of one. But to say for sure what it is, is a completely different story. In this article we look into this natural phenomenon, how it is formed and we mention the most famous of our geography and some related tours that you will find on our website, so do not miss it!

What is a geyser?

As mentioned briefly in the introduction, a geyser is a hydrothermal source that emits a column of steam, gases and very hot water from the lower strata. These broadcasts are temporary and take place at almost the same time periodically. Its name comes from the famous Geysir in Iceland, which gives its name to all those around the world.

How is a geyser formed?

Geysers require a particular hydrogeological formation consisting of surface water lagoons and internal channels. These formations occur in about 1,000 locations around the world.

A geyser is formed by the contact between the surface rainwater that accumulates in the internal cavities of the earth and the rocks heated by the magma. These rocks heat the water, causing steam to build up and increasing the pressure. Much of that steam begins to escape through the ejection cone crater. Surface water begins to overflow until the surface tension breaks. Finally, due to the increase in pressure, the water is expelled upward. The cycle is then repeated.

Some geysers found in Chile

Chile is famous for having some of the most interesting geysers in the world, due to the height they reach and the size of their columns. We now mention the most relevant ones.

Tatio Geysers

The Tatio Geysers are located in the Antofagasta Region, near San Pedro de Atacama, at 4200 meters above sea level. These reach up to 10 meters in height and usually appear at 6:00 a.m., when the cold drops to sub-zero temperatures.

Ice Geyser

The Géyser de Hielo, or Géyser de Catua, is hidden in the Chilean puna. Like the previous ones, it is close to San Pedro de Atacama. The difference is that this one is made of sculptural ice forms.

Tours available at CaminAndes

In CaminAndes we have a variety of tours in Chile specialized in the Atacama region. Of course, the excursions to the aforementioned geysers stand out, with unique routes that invite us to get to know the majesty of the desert. Other tours in San Pedro de Atacama are the following:

• Tour to the Cejar Lagoon. A 5-hour tour to this saline lagoon that allows us to float smoothly in the water. Includes a cocktail and bathrobes, in addition to the transfer starting at 3:00 pm. We will also visit the Piedras and Baltinache lagoons.
• Tour to the Rainbow Valley and Hierbas Buenas Petroglyphs. A 45-minute ride to the valley, where we will know the most important points of its geological formation. We will experience the rock art of petroglyphs. Includes a meal, depending on the time of day.
• Route of the Salares. A trip through the most emblematic areas of the desert, including the Bofedal de Quipiaco, the Caldera de Pacana and the Salares de Aguas Calientes and Quispiro.

Final considerations

Now that you know what a geyser is, you can study the available tours and visit these wonderful geological formations. Undoubtedly, we will find that ride you were looking for. There are many options for all tastes and preferences. So don’t miss them!