Author: Jan

Locals kept telling me the same thing: “If you really want to relax in Chile, go to the hot springs.” So I did, and they were right. From my first soak, surrounded by forest and steam, I knew this was something special. This guide covers the best hot springs in Chile by region, not a generic worldwide list.

Atacama soak: Puritama hot springs.

Hot springs Chile by region (quick pick)

Quick answer: If you only do one soak in Chile, make it Termas Geométricas near Pucón. If you only have Santiago time, go for Cajón del Maipo.

The best hot springs in Chile for most travelers are Termas Geométricas near Pucón for the iconic forest pools, plus Cajón del Maipo options within 1 to 2 hours of Santiago for an easy day trip.

Official sources: Termas Geometricas official site

There’s nothing like it: sitting in natural volcanic water, mountains all around, feeling completely disconnected from everything else. That’s what makes hot springs in Chile unforgettable – every place has its own personality, from wild and remote to calm and spa-like.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the best hot springs across Chile – from the canyons near Santiago to the forests of Pucón and the deserts of Atacama.

1. Termas Geométricas (Pucón / Villarrica National Park)

The Layout

Imagine stepping into a forest canyon where bright red wooden walkways stretch through mist, connecting more than 20 steaming pools hidden between moss-covered walls. That’s Termas Geométricas. Designed by Chilean architect Germán del Sol, the place feels like a living sculpture – part human creation, part wild nature. Each pool varies in temperature, from a mild 35°C to a scorching 46°C, all fed by natural volcanic springs from deep beneath the Quetrupillán volcano.

A freezing waterfall cuts through the middle of the canyon, letting you jump from boiling water straight into glacial cold – it’s the most refreshing shock you’ll ever feel. Even on a rainy day, the combination of steam, greenery, and wood makes it surreal.

Practical Info

Entrance fee: Around $45-50 USD per person depending on the season and time slot (morning, afternoon, or evening).
Getting there: About 2 hours from Pucón by car. The route passes through Coñaripe, where the paved road ends and a bumpy gravel track begins. Drive slowly – the views of lakes and volcanoes along the way are worth every turn.
Best time to visit: Year-round, though spring and autumn are quieter. In winter, it’s magical with snow on the trees.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops
– Warm layers for after your soak
– Water and a small snack (there’s a café, but limited options)
– Cash for entrance
Facilities: Changing rooms, lockers, and a small café on site. Everything else is pure nature.

Why go

Because no other hot spring in Chile blends design and wilderness this perfectly. The red walkways, the smell of wet wood, the steam rising between trees – everything about Termas Geométricas feels intentional yet untouched. It’s not just a soak; it’s an experience. If you only visit one Hot Springs Chile destination, make it this one.

2. Parque Termal Botánico (Near Pucón)

The Layout

It’s quite new – and it feels that way in the best sense. Parque Termal Botánico isn’t hidden deep in the forest like some of the wilder hot springs, yet it still feels completely surrounded by nature. Paths lead you through lush gardens filled with hibiscus flowers, ferns, and native trees until you reach the pools – ten in total – scattered between plants, rocks, and even a glass “crystal palace.”

Each pool has its own temperature and character: some open to the sun, others shaded by trees, and a few built into cave-like spaces that trap the steam in the air. The whole place feels calm, colorful, and a little bit tropical for southern Chile. It’s the kind of spot where you can easily spend hours moving from one pool to another without realizing how much time has passed.

Practical Info

Entrance fee: Around 40,000 CLP per adult (roughly $40 USD) for up to 4 hours. Children and seniors pay slightly less.
Getting there: About 30 minutes from Pucón, heading toward Caburgua. The drive is easy and paved most of the way, making it one of the most accessible hot springs in the region.
Best time to visit: All year round, though it’s especially nice in spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel (they rent them, but it’s cheaper to bring your own)
– Flip-flops for walking between pools
– Water and light snacks (there’s a café for drinks and small meals)
– Warm layers for when you get out of the water
– Insect repellent if visiting in summer
Facilities: Changing rooms, lockers, showers, and a small café/snack bar. Massage services are available if booked in advance.

Why go

Because it’s a perfect mix of comfort and nature. Parque Termal Botánico feels like soaking inside a botanical garden – peaceful, elegant, and designed for true relaxation. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone who prefers a calm, well-maintained atmosphere without losing that connection to the southern Chilean landscape. Among Hot Springs Chile, it’s one of the easiest to access and one of the most beautiful.

3. Termas Valle de Colina (Cajón del Maipo / Santiago)

A few hours from Santiago, deep inside Cajón del Maipo, the landscape changes completely – dusty roads, dramatic cliffs, and the snow-covered Andes towering around you. Then, suddenly, steam appears in the valley, and you realize you’ve found it: Termas Valle de Colina.

These natural hot springs sit at more than 3,000 meters above sea level and cascade down a hillside in a series of tiered pools made of mineral-rich clay. The higher you go, the hotter the water gets – reaching temperatures of around 50°C in the top pools – while the lower ones are cooler and perfect for long soaks. The scent of sulfur mixes with the crisp mountain air, and the views stretch endlessly into the Andes. It’s one of those places where you can literally sit in steaming water while looking at snow.

Practical Info

Entrance fee: Around 10,000-15,000 CLP per person ($10-15 USD). Bring cash – cards aren’t accepted this high up.
Getting there: Around 2.5-3 hours from Santiago. Follow the G-25 road through San José de Maipo until the pavement ends; from there, it’s a gravel road. A 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended.
Best time to visit: October to April. In winter, snow often blocks the access roads.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops or water shoes (the ground can be rough)
– Warm layers – it gets cold fast when you leave the pools
– Water, snacks, and cash
– Sunscreen (the altitude sun burns quickly)
Facilities: Very basic. No changing rooms, no restaurants, and no cell service – just the mountains and the pools.

Why go

Because it’s the purest definition of wild Chile. Soaking in natural hot springs at the edge of a glacier, surrounded by nothing but silence and mountains, feels unreal. Termas Valle de Colina is rugged, raw, and easily one of the most breathtaking Hot Springs Chile experiences – the closest you’ll ever get to bathing in the clouds.

4. Baños Morales & Embalse del Yeso (Cajón del Maipo)

The Layout

Tucked deep in Cajón del Maipo, Baños Morales feels like a hidden mountain village where time moves slower. The hot springs themselves are small, rustic, and community-run – a handful of shallow pools set against a dramatic backdrop of snowcapped peaks. The mineral water here is rich in clay and iron, giving it a reddish hue that locals say is great for the skin.

Just a short drive (or hike) away lies Embalse del Yeso, a turquoise mountain reservoir that looks like it was painted into the Andes. Most travelers combine both spots into one day: a morning hike or photo stop at the reservoir, followed by a long, quiet soak at Baños Morales as the sun drops behind the mountains.

Practical Info

Getting there: About 3 hours from Santiago, following the G-25 road through San José de Maipo. Roads are winding and partly gravel – doable in summer with a normal car, but in winter, snow can close access completely.
Entrance fee: Around 8,000-10,000 CLP ($8-10 USD), cash only.
Open season: Typically October to April. Always check weather and road conditions before you go.
Facilities: Very basic. Expect simple pools, a changing area, and not much else – no café, no Wi-Fi, just mountain silence.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops or sandals
– Warm clothing (the altitude brings cold winds)
– Water, snacks, and sunscreen
– Cash and a camera for Embalse del Yeso

Why go

Because few places mix hiking, mountain views, and thermal waters this perfectly. Baños Morales is peaceful, authentic, and one of the easiest Hot Springs Chile experiences you can reach from Santiago. Add a stop at Embalse del Yeso, and you’ve got the perfect Andes day trip – turquoise lake in the morning, steaming pools in the afternoon.

5. Geysers del Tatio (San Pedro de Atacama)

The Layout

At over 4,300 meters above sea level, Geysers del Tatio is the kind of place that feels like another planet. You arrive before sunrise, shivering in the freezing desert air, and then watch as the first rays of sunlight hit dozens of steaming geysers erupting from the earth. The landscape is surreal – bubbling pools, columns of vapor, and a golden glow spreading over the Andes.

While it’s not a “soak and relax” kind of hot spring, there is one thermal pool where visitors can bathe. The water temperature hovers around 35°C, which feels glorious after the early morning cold. But the real magic of Tatio is the setting – one of the largest geyser fields in the world, surrounded by flamingos, vicuñas, and the endless silence of the Atacama Desert.

Practical Info

Getting there: About 2 hours from San Pedro de Atacama. Most people join a guided sunrise tour, since roads are rough and it’s easy to get lost in the dark.
Entrance fee: Around 15,000 CLP ($15-18 USD) per person, payable in cash at the entrance.
Best time to visit: Early morning (around 6:00 AM) for the full geyser effect – the contrast between freezing air and hot steam is strongest then.
Facilities: Basic. A small visitor center, restrooms, and a designated bathing pool. Bring your own towel and snacks.
What to bring:
– Warm layers (temperatures can drop below zero)
– Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to bathe)
– Water, snacks, and altitude pills if needed
– Camera for sunrise shots (tripod recommended)

Why go

Because it’s not just one of the best Hot Springs Chile experiences – it’s one of the most unique landscapes on Earth. Watching the sunrise over Geysers del Tatio feels like witnessing the planet breathe. And if you dip into the hot pool afterward, it’s the perfect ending to one of the coldest, most unforgettable mornings you’ll ever have.

6. Termas de Puritama (San Pedro de Atacama)

The Layout

Hidden in a narrow canyon just north of San Pedro, Termas de Puritama is an oasis in the middle of the Atacama Desert. Eight crystal-clear pools are connected by wooden walkways, each one warmed naturally by underground volcanic heat. The name comes from the Kunza word “Puri-Tama”, meaning “hot water,” and once you step in, you’ll understand why locals have bathed here for centuries.

Unlike the raw power of Geysers del Tatio, Puritama feels peaceful and refined – warm water flowing between desert rocks, small waterfalls trickling from one pool to the next, and the scent of desert plants drifting through the air. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and the contrast between dry desert cliffs and lush green canyon walls feels almost unreal.

Practical Info

Getting there: About 30 km (45 minutes) from San Pedro de Atacama, via Route B-245. There’s no public transport, so you’ll need your own car or a guided tour.
Entrance fee: Around 25,000-35,000 CLP ($25-35 USD), depending on season and time of day. Booking ahead is recommended.
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
Facilities: Wooden paths, shaded resting decks, changing rooms, restrooms, and a small visitor area. simple but well maintained.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops (wooden paths can get hot)
– Water and snacks (no café on-site)
– Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

Why go

Because Termas de Puritama shows the softer side of the desert. It’s the perfect balance between nature and comfort – clean, quiet, and surrounded by surreal Atacama scenery. If you’re traveling through northern Hot Springs Chilespots, this is your must-do desert oasis: warm waters, clear skies, and absolute calm just minutes from San Pedro.

7. Los Pozones (Pucón)

The Layout

Tucked deep in the forest near the Liucura River, Los Pozones is the definition of rustic charm. Picture a string of natural stone pools carved right into the riverbank, surrounded by trees, mist, and the sound of rushing water. There’s no fancy architecture or modern design here – just raw, wild nature and steaming volcanic water.

At night, the atmosphere becomes even more magical. Steam rises under the stars, the river glows in the moonlight, and conversations fade into quiet. It’s one of those places where you feel completely off the grid – the kind of experience that reminds you why Chile’s hot springs are so special.

Practical Info

Getting there: About 35 minutes from Pucón by car, following the road toward Huife. The last part is gravel but manageable with a regular vehicle.
Entrance fee: Around 10,000 CLP ($10-12 USD), cash only.
Best time to visit: Early morning or at night. Both give you peace and space – midday tends to be busier with tours.
Facilities: Very basic. A few changing cabins, restrooms, and wooden stairs leading down to the pools. No café or lockers.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops or water shoes
– Water and snacks
– Warm clothes for after your soak
– Headlamp if visiting at night

Why go

Because this is Hot Springs Chile in its purest form – simple, natural, and unforgettable. Los Pozones isn’t about luxury; it’s about feeling connected to nature. If you want a raw, peaceful soak surrounded by forest and river sounds, this is your spot.

8. Salto El León (Pucón)

The Layout

Salto El León isn’t just about soaking – it’s about the view. Around 30 km from Pucón, this hidden gem combines a roaring waterfall with a few natural thermal pools nearby. The main fall drops nearly 90 meters into a misty canyon, and the pools sit close enough that you can feel the spray while you bathe. The contrast between the icy mountain water crashing down and the warmth of the pools makes it a one-of-a-kind experience.

The area around Salto El León is lush and green, filled with ferns, moss, and the constant hum of the forest. It’s a short walk from the parking area (about 300 meters), and while the pools themselves are small and simple, the setting more than makes up for it.

Practical Info

Getting there: Roughly 40 minutes from Pucón by car, on the road toward Palguín. The final stretch is gravel but accessible in a regular car.
Entrance fee: Around 8,000-10,000 CLP ($8-10 USD).
Best time to visit: Spring to early autumn (October-April), when the falls are at their fullest and the weather is pleasant.
Facilities: Basic but clean. A small café and restrooms are available near the entrance, and parking is straightforward.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Water, snacks, and camera
– Light rain jacket (the waterfall spray can soak you)

Why go

Because Salto El León combines two of Chile’s best natural experiences – waterfalls and thermal baths – in one peaceful setting. It’s less famous than Geométricas or Botánico, but that’s part of its charm. For travelers exploring Hot Springs Chile, this stop offers something truly unique: the sound of thunderous falls while you soak in warm volcanic water.

9. Termas Quimey-Co (Pucón)

The Layout

Set in a sunny clearing surrounded by forested hills, Termas Quimey-Co offers a laid-back, open-air hot springs experience that feels both natural and comfortable. Several pools of different temperatures are spread across grassy terraces, with views of trees and mountains in the background. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed – more like a mountain retreat than a spa.

The pools themselves are clean and well-kept, with smooth stones and warm volcanic water averaging between 36°C and 40°C. On clear days, sunlight reflects off the water, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking or exploring Pucón.

Practical Info

Getting there: Around 30–35 minutes from Pucón, following the same road that leads toward Huife and Los Pozones. Easy to reach by car.
Entrance fee: Roughly 10,000-12,000 CLP ($10–13 USD).
Best time to visit: Late morning or afternoon – it gets sunny and warm, ideal for lounging in the outdoor pools.
Facilities: Moderate – changing rooms, restrooms, a small café, and picnic areas. More structured than Los Pozones but still surrounded by nature.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops or sandals
– Sunglasses and sunscreen
– Water and light snacks

Why go

Because Termas Quimey-Co strikes the perfect balance between rustic and organized. It’s not as dramatic as Geométricas or as curated as Botánico, but it’s peaceful, warm, and easy to reach. For anyone exploring Hot Springs Chile, this is a great middle-ground option – affordable, scenic, and authentically local.

10. Eco Termas Río Blanco (Cochamó / Lake District)

The Layout

Deep in the forested valleys near Cochamó, Eco Termas Río Blanco feels like a hidden sanctuary for travelers who want to disconnect completely. The pools are set along a quiet river, surrounded by green hills and native trees. Steam rises through the morning mist, and the only sounds you’ll hear are birds and running water.

The setup is simple but beautiful – a few wooden tubs and stone pools filled with natural geothermal water, perfectly warm for long soaks. It’s the kind of place where you bring your own food, stay at the nearby campground, and let time slow down. There’s no rush, no crowds, and definitely no phone signal – just peace, nature, and the steady warmth of the thermal water.

Practical Info

Getting there: About 2 hours from Puerto Varas or 1.5 hours from Cochamó by car. The final stretch is on a gravel road, but it’s well-marked.
Entrance fee: Around 10,000 CLP ($10–12 USD).
Best time to visit: Year-round, though it’s especially cozy on rainy days when the surrounding forest turns misty.
Facilities: Rustic and eco-friendly – basic changing cabins, restrooms, and a small camping area. No restaurant or Wi-Fi, but cold drinks (and sometimes beer) are sold on-site.
What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Water, snacks, and cash
– Warm layers for the evening
– Flip-flops or water shoes
– A tent if you plan to stay overnight

Why go

Because Eco Termas Río Blanco captures the heart of Hot Springs Chile – remote, raw, and deeply relaxing. It’s not about luxury; it’s about immersion in nature. If your idea of the perfect hot spring is one where you can hear the forest breathe and forget the rest of the world exists, this is exactly where you want to be.

Final Thoughts on Hot Springs Chile

After soaking in steaming pools beneath volcanoes, beside rivers, and under starlit skies, one thing’s clear – Chile does hot springs better than almost anywhere. Whether you’re after wild and remote or cozy and curated, each spot offers its own version of calm.

If you only visit one, make it Termas Geométricas for pure magic. But honestly, every stop on this list reminds you why slowing down – just sitting still in nature – might be the best part of traveling Chile.

I’d heard a lot of good things from locals about the Hot Springs Santiago – stories about natural pools hidden in the Andes, surrounded by snow and silence. Everyone said the same thing: “you have to go, it’s incredible”. So of course, I had to try it myself.

Part of our hot springs Chile collection. Santiago hub: Santiago travel guide. Day trips: day trips from Santiago. Hotels: best hotels in Santiago.

Part of our Santiago activities collection — start with things to do in Santiago. Itinerary: 1 week in Santiago · Day trips: from Santiago.

Day trip from Santiago? Chile safety overview · Santiago travel guide.

The best hot springs near Santiago are in Cajon del Maipo, within 1 to 2 hours of the city, including Banos Morales and Termas Valle de Colina.

A few hours after leaving the city, the noise and chaos of Santiago faded behind me. The road climbed higher into the mountains, and soon there was nothing but winding valleys, steaming air, and that crisp Andean wind. The moment I stepped into the hot water, I got it – the locals were right.

Every hot spring I’ve visited in Chile has been special, but there’s something unforgettable about the ones near Santiago. The combination of raw landscape, altitude, and peace hits different. It’s the kind of experience that makes you stop, breathe, and realize how stunning this country really is.

Also planning to go further south to Chile’s Lake District? Check out the best hot springs of Pucón!

1. Termas Valle de Colina (Cajón del Maipo)

My Termas Valle de Colina Review

The road to Termas Valle de Colina feels like an adventure in itself. Once you leave Santiago, the highway slowly turns into a narrow mountain road that winds deeper into Cajón del Maipo. Dust clouds rise behind every car, the air gets colder, and the Andes start to dominate the horizon. By the time you reach the valley, the only sounds left are the wind and the bubbling of the hot springs.

My first dip into the pools was pure magic – warm volcanic water, thin mountain air, and snow still sitting on the peaks above me. It’s one of those places that make you forget you’re only a couple of hours away from a capital city. The contrast between the icy air and the steaming pools is something you’ll never forget.

The Layout

The layout of Termas Valle de Colina is something out of a postcard. Seven or eight natural pools cascade down a small slope, each one slightly cooler than the one above. They’re formed from mineral-rich mud and rock, so the edges feel rough and natural – nothing polished or built-up here.

From the top pools, you get a clear view of the Andes stretching endlessly in every direction. Steam rises into the cold air, mixing with the smell of sulfur and the sound of distant meltwater streams. The higher you sit, the hotter the water – it can reach up to 50°C – while the lower pools are milder and perfect for just floating and watching the light change on the mountains.

Practical Info

Entrance fee: Around 10,000–15,000 CLP per person (roughly $10–15 USD), depending on the season. Bring cash – there’s no card payment this high up.

How to get there from Santiago: Drive southeast toward San José de Maipo, then continue about 75 km into the Cajón del Maipo valley. The last stretch is gravel and can be rough, so a 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended. The total drive is around 2.5 to 3 hours from Santiago.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early autumn (October to April). In winter, snow often blocks the access roads.

What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Flip-flops or sandals (the ground is rocky and hot)
– Water and snacks (no shops around)
– Cash for entrance
– Warm layers – once you get out of the water, the wind can be freezing

Facilities: Very basic. There are no changing rooms, no café, no showers – just nature. Most visitors change behind their cars or wrap up in towels.

Why go

Because this is as close as you’ll ever get to bathing in the sky. The combination of wild scenery, pure silence, and steaming mineral water surrounded by snow-covered peaks makes Termas Valle de Colina one of the most unforgettable Hot Springs Santiago has to offer. It’s raw, real, and exactly the kind of experience that reminds you how powerful and peaceful nature can be – all within a few hours of the city.

2. Baños Morales & Embalse del Yeso

My Baños Morales Review

After soaking in Valle de Colina, I wasn’t sure another place nearby could compete – but Baños Morales has a completely different charm. It’s smaller, quieter, and feels like a little mountain village lost in time. The hot springs here are community-run, simple stone pools tucked between massive peaks, with steam rising gently into the cold air.

The drive up is worth it alone. You pass turquoise rivers, sharp cliffs, and finally reach Baños Morales, sitting at over 1,800 meters above sea level. The air is thin, crisp, and filled with the sound of running water from nearby streams. And if you have time, combine it with a visit to Embalse del Yeso, the stunning turquoise reservoir just a short drive away – one of the most beautiful mountain views near Santiago. It’s the perfect day trip: adventure first, relaxation second.

The Layout

The pools at Baños Morales are simple but beautiful. Two or three small thermal pools sit on a rocky slope, surrounded by the Andes on all sides. The water temperature hovers around 25–30°C – not boiling, but comfortably warm – especially nice when the mountain breeze hits your face.

What makes the experience special isn’t luxury; it’s the setting. You’re sitting in natural mineral water with snow-capped peaks towering above you and the sound of a mountain stream below. It feels peaceful, honest, and refreshingly local.

Practical Info

How to get there from Santiago:
Take Route G-25 toward Cajón del Maipo and continue past San José de Maipo until you reach Baños Morales (around 93 km from Santiago). The drive takes roughly 3 hours. A car with good clearance is recommended; the last stretch can be rough and narrow.

Entrance fee / open season:
Entrance costs around 8,000–10,000 CLP per person. The hot springs are usually open from October to April, but it depends on weather and road conditions. In winter, snow often closes access.

Road conditions / accessibility:
The gravel road after San Gabriel can be challenging, especially after rain or snow. Check conditions before you go, and start early – there’s no phone signal in most of the valley.

Facilities:
Very basic. There are no changing rooms or restaurants, just a small area managed by locals. Bring everything you need for the day.

What to bring:
– Swimsuit and towel
– Water and snacks
– Sunscreen (the altitude makes the sun strong)
– Cash (no card payments)
– Warm clothes for when you get out
– Camera – the landscape is unreal

Why go

Because Baños Morales gives you the purest version of mountain relaxation – no crowds, no fancy facilities, just the Andes, warm mineral water, and silence. Pair it with a quick stop at Embalse del Yeso, and you’ve got one of the most scenic day trips in Chile. It’s peaceful, authentic, and one of the easiest ways to mix hiking, adventure, and soaking in nature near Santiago.