Enquelga Hot Springs
Relax in warm, natural pools amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Tarapacá plateau, with chances to spot alpacas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid afternoon winds
Enquelga Hot Springs
Best Time
Avoid afternoon winds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relax in warm, natural pools amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Tarapacá plateau, with chances to spot alpacas.
"The place is beautiful, surrounded by mountains, a volcano, and alpacas. The water is very pleasant."
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to Enquelga isn't in great condition. Go slow on the way up and down. 🚗
💰 Affordable Entry
Adults pay 3,000 CLP, children over 8 pay 1,000 CLP. Kids under 8 are free. :moneybag:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 28 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Pools
Main bathing area
Relax in the warm, natural waters surrounded by breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.
Tarapacá Plateau Scenery
Surrounding area
Marvel at the dramatic mountains, volcano views, and potential wildlife sightings.
Alpaca Encounters
Near the hot springs
Keep an eye out for alpacas grazing in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Enquelga
Enquelga Hot Springs: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to Enquelga isn't in great condition. Go slow on the way up and down. 🚗
💰 Affordable Entry
Adults pay 3,000 CLP, children over 8 pay 1,000 CLP. Kids under 8 are free. :moneybag:
💧 Pleasant Waters
The water is warm and pleasant, not intensely hot like some hot springs. :droplet:
🌬️ Windy Afternoons
It can get quite windy in the afternoons, so plan your visit accordingly. :wind_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully
The road to Enquelga isn't in great condition. Go slow on the way up and down. 🚗
💰 Affordable Entry
Adults pay 3,000 CLP, children over 8 pay 1,000 CLP. Kids under 8 are free. :moneybag:
💧 Pleasant Waters
The water is warm and pleasant, not intensely hot like some hot springs. :droplet:
🌬️ Windy Afternoons
It can get quite windy in the afternoons, so plan your visit accordingly. :wind_face:
🏞️ Stunning Surroundings
Enjoy the beautiful views of mountains, a volcano, and even alpacas! ⛰️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Enquelga Hot Springs is praised for its stunning natural setting and pleasant, warm waters, offering a relaxing escape in the Tarapacá plateau. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry fees and the opportunity to see alpacas. However, some note that the water isn't intensely hot, and the cleanliness of the facilities could be improved.
"The setting is beautiful, the pools just as nice, although the water wasn't like hot springs, it was cold, more like a swimming pool. Adults pay 3,000, children over 8 pay 1,000, children under 8 are free. There are small tables for camping, you can have a barbecue, and also a place to change clothes, and a pit toilet."
Melisa CarpeDiem
"Nice place. The waters aren't too warm, but pleasant. It's windy in the afternoon. There's a space with tables and benches and restrooms. Tickets are 3,000 per person."
Rudy Muñoz
"It's a natural semi-thermal pool about three hours from Iquique, in the middle of the Tarapacá plateau. If you're lucky, you might even spot some animals wandering around. The water is warm and generally clean, providing the perfect setting for enjoying and relaxing. The only thing that needs to be improved is the cleanliness of the bathrooms and changing rooms."
Paula Andrea Ayarza Olivares
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Enquelga Hot Springs is located about a three-hour drive from Iquique in the Tarapacá plateau. The route is not in the best condition, so it's recommended to drive slowly and carefully. Consider a 4x4 vehicle if possible, or join a tour for easier access.
The road conditions are described as not being in good condition, suggesting it's likely unpaved or rough in sections. Driving slowly is advised.
While possible, it's advisable to drive slowly and cautiously due to the road conditions. Some travelers might prefer a vehicle better suited for rough terrain.
Yes, some tour operators like Altiplano Travel offer tours to Enquelga Hot Springs, which can simplify transportation and logistics.
The journey from Iquique to Enquelga Hot Springs takes approximately three hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is 3,000 Chilean pesos for adults and 1,000 Chilean pesos for children over 8 years old. Children under 8 enter for free.
Children over 8 years old pay 1,000 Chilean pesos. Children under 8 years old get free admission.
Information on advance ticket purchases is limited, but it's generally a pay-on-arrival system. Checking with tour operators might offer package deals.
Specific operating hours are not widely published, but visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid afternoon winds and potential crowds.
While camping is mentioned as an option with small tables available, specific camping fees are not detailed in the provided information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water is described as warm and pleasant, rather than intensely hot like traditional hot springs. It's more akin to a comfortable swimming pool temperature. +1
Yes, there are places to change clothes and restrooms available. However, some reviews mention that the cleanliness of these facilities could be improved. +1
Yes, there are small tables available for camping and barbecues, making it a suitable spot for a picnic.
The hot springs are set in a beautiful natural environment on the Tarapacá plateau, surrounded by mountains, a volcano, and often visited by alpacas.
Crowds can vary, but visiting in the morning or on weekdays is recommended to experience a more peaceful atmosphere and avoid potential afternoon winds.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning panoramic views of the Tarapacá plateau, the surrounding mountains and volcano, and the unique sight of alpacas in their natural habitat. The natural pools themselves also make for beautiful shots.
Early morning light can be ideal for capturing the dramatic landscapes without harsh shadows. Be mindful of the wind picking up in the afternoon.
The entire area offers picturesque views. Look for elevated spots to capture the vastness of the plateau and the volcanic formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscape shots. Consider a telephoto lens if you want to get closer shots of any wildlife like alpacas. A polarizing filter can help manage glare on the water. :camerawithflash:
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in natural or protected areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit