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Best geothermal destinations in South America

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Pucon
Volcano Views and Adventure Bliss
7.6
Villarrica volcano stands about 10.5 miles south of town and has erupted more than 82 times since 1558. Nearby hot springs include Palguin, Rio Blanco, Huife, Quimey Co and Los Pozones. Menetue lies in the neighbouring commune of Curarrehue. The town stands at only 745 feet on Lake Villarrica's eastern shore.
Highlights:
  • 🚣‍♂️ Kayak on Lake Villarrica to private, serene beaches
  • ♨️ Soak in the soothing waters of Termas Geometricas hot springs
  • 🌋 Climb the active Villarrica Volcano and enjoy crater views
San Pedro de Atacama
Mars-like Landscapes and Starry Nights
7.5
This adobe town grew around an oasis at 7,897 feet in the Puna de Atacama. Termas de Puritama is listed among its attractions. El Tatio, a geyser field with over 80 active geysers, lies roughly 50 miles north. Los Flamencos National Reserve and Valle de la Luna add desert scenery.
Highlights:
  • 🌕 Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Valle de la Luna
  • 🧂 Float effortlessly in the salt-rich Laguna Cejar
  • 🌅 Witness sunrise at the geysers of El Tatio
Argentina
Land of diverse natural wonders
8.3
Local hot springs at Termas de Rio Hondo run above 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Argentines visit the spa town for waters believed to help with high blood pressure and rheumatism. La Olla is one of two public pools near the centre. Copahue volcano on the Neuquen border rises 9,833 feet and its name means sulphur waters.
Highlights:
  • 🥩 Taste authentic Argentine steak paired with Malbec wine
  • 💃 Dance tango in a traditional Buenos Aires milonga
  • 🌊 Marvel at the thundering Iguazu Falls from the Devil’s Throat lookout
El Tatio
Misty geysers glow beside crystal waters
At 14,170 feet this is the largest geyser field in the Southern Hemisphere. Only Yellowstone and Dolina Geizerov are larger. The field once held 67 geysers and over 300 hot springs across 12 square miles. Geyser water measures 176 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Steam vents stand out most in the morning.
Highlights:
  • 📸 Capture dramatic desert landscapes with early morning light
  • ♨️ Explore nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak
  • 🌋 Witness sunrise steam vents at El Tatio geysers
Sol de Mañana
Warm waters rise beneath Andean sunrise
Described as among the highest geothermal fields in the world, this area lies at about 16,100 feet. It has steam vents, mud pools, geysers and fumaroles near 158 degrees Fahrenheit. Steam and water occasionally rise up to 656 feet. It lies south of Laguna Colorada inside Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve.
Highlights:
  • 📸 Capture the surreal sunset over the salt flats
  • 🛺 Ride a traditional salt cart across turquoise dunes
  • 🌄 Explore Salar de Uyuni's mirror desert at sunrise
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