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Just 4 hours from Tacna in southern Peru in the Vilacota-Maure Regional Conservation Area one of the many hidden and mostly unknown natural treasures the country has to offer, can be found: the Valley of the Geysers (El Valle de los Géiseres).
Located far off the beaten path in the district of Candarave at 4,300 m (14,000 feet) above sea level the area is composed of several geysers that regularly eject hot water and steam.
Additionally, over 80 natural hot springs with water temperatures between 37°C (98°F) and 80°C (176°F) are in the area. Visitors can use two of them as natural thermal bath (37°C / 98°F and 40°C / 104°F). Their sulfurous water is known for its therapeutic properties and used by locals for centuries to help treat skin, respiratory and musculoskeletal disorders including arthritis and rheumatism.
Next to the phenomenal geysers and thermal springs, visitors can enjoy the amazing Andean scenery with its extremely special and partly endangered flora and fauna as well as small communities living and cultivating their fields in this harsh environment.
A great ecotourism destination away from mass tourism.
How to get to the Valley of the Geysers in Candarave
From Lima either take a flight to Tacna (about 2h), drive your own / rental car or go on a bus ride (20 h).
From Tacna it takes another 4 hours to get to the Valley of the Geysers.
While it’s possible to go with your own car (a special permission from the “Gerencia de Recursos Naturales del Gobierno Regional de Tacna”, the Management of Natural Resources of the Regional Government of Tacna, is necessary), the best is to book a tour at one of the tour agencies located around the Plaza de Armas in Tacna or any other tour operator in Peru.
Day trips start at around S/ 210 per person (2019) and usually include transportation from Tacna to the Valley of the Geysers and back (the Queñuales Forest, the Yucamani volcano and the Blue Lagoon are on the way as well), a guide and lunch.
When to visit the Valley of the Geysers?
The best time to visit the Valley of the Geysers is between April and November during the dry season
What to wear when visiting the Valley of the Geysers?
Best wear comfortable clothes and shoes. As the valley is at an altitude of 4,300 m (14,000 feet), it can get bitter cold; so dress accordingly. Sunglasses and sun cream are a must. And if you want to enjoy the hot springs bring your bathing suit / swim trunks and a towel.
