Trekking in Candarave Geysers Valley

Trekking in this part of Tacna is the best, why? Well, in the area to visit, Calientes, as its name suggests, enjoys very high temperatures. The thermal baths can reach over 80 degrees. On one hand; however, the climate of the area is quite cold. The fusion of both temperatures and climates makes it an ideal exotic destination for all adventurers.

From Tacna to Candarave (Mirador Paloma and Cóndor), by vehicle. From here, everything is done trekking passing through the Aricota lagoon, which you can contemplate for a moment. You deserve a rest, to finally arrive at the Yucamani volcano. Here, a beautiful forest awaits you, which will open its foliage wide. Finally, we made it! Along the way, what do you find? The queñuales Forest, the town of Santa Cruz, and the Yucamani volcano, among other natural resources.

Routes

On the route, walker, you can contemplate the Chacawira River, the Ancient settlement, and the Qala Qala Caves. Then, Ticaco and the thermal baths await you, here it would be good to take a break and then continue the journey towards Santa Cruz (Yucamani volcano); passing through the queñuales and the Geysers Valley. Destination? Calientes.

• Distance

If you visit Candarave along the way, you will find majestic landscapes with their respective contrasts. What does the geography show you? The scenery is perfect: rugged peaks, rivers, lagoons, Tacna valleys, and terraces ideal for hiking. 45 km from the center of Candarave, is the province of the latter and also the Calientes Thermal Springs composed of geysers whose temperature exceeds 80º C producing large vaporizations.

• Difficulty Level

Keep in mind that the hiking difficulty level is intermediate, at least on the way to the Santa María viewpoint.

• Travel Time

The walk is towards the Santa María viewpoint, which is done from Candarave. Duration? One hour.

• Season

In winter, there will be snow, but it is possible to go all year round. When is the warm season in Tacna? From December 24 to April 2, with an average maximum temperature during the day of over 25º C. The hottest day of the year is February 12 with an average maximum temperature of 27º C and an average minimum temperature of 18º C. And the cool temperature? From June 3 to September 16, with a daily average maximum temperature of less than 20º C. The coldest day of the year? July 26.

What to bring (equipment)

For hiking in the area, it is vital to bring the following:

• Definitely: Tent, sleeping bag, and flashlight.
• Don't forget trekking shoes or footwear with good grip (optional).
• Sunscreen.
• Sunglasses.
• Swimwear to immerse yourself in the Thermal Waters.
• Warm clothing (Tacna highlands).
• Windbreaker jacket.

Recommendations

Finally, did you know that the Candarave Geysers, besides being an important tourist attraction, are also considered an ideal source for treating ailments such as arthritis and rheumatism? In conclusion, they are thermomedicinal waters. That's right, they are water sources with healing properties.

To conclude, we recommend that you hire the services of a local professional guide or a travel agency. This is because if you do the tour, whether by car, autonomously, the journey will be very difficult. Remember: it's a rough road, but. Can you imagine? Having an accident or your vehicle getting stuck in the middle of nowhere. Who will assist you? It's always good to be prepared.