Purico complex
Mountain Volcanic and geothermal complex in Chilean Altiplano
A volcanic complex in Chile’s Antofagasta Region on the Altiplano. Geologists, high‑altitude trekkers and landscape photographers visit for volcanic features, pumice fields and high‑desert vistas.
How to Get to Purico complex #
Located in the Antofagasta Region of northern Chile on the Altiplano. Access is by high-altitude roads from towns such as San Pedro de Atacama or Calama; sturdy 4x4 vehicles are recommended. Permits or coordination with regional authorities may be required for scientific access.
Tips for Visiting Purico complex #
- Permits are required for scientific and many recreational visits-coordinate with Chilean park authorities if planning fieldwork.
- Altitude and aridity require careful hydration and sun protection-UV is intense above 4,000 m.
- High-altitude acclimatization is necessary: plan staged ascents and avoid heavy exertion on the first day.
Best Time to Visit Purico complex #
Best visited in the austral spring and autumn for milder temperatures and clearer roads; high altitude conditions demand acclimatization.
Weather & Climate near Purico complex #
Purico complex's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with cold summers (peaking in January) and freezing winters (coldest in June). Temperatures range from -14°C to 11°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -4°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -4°C. The wettest month with 32 mm of rain.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -5°C. Light rainfall.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -8°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is freezing with highs of 7°C and lows of -11°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is the coldest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -14°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -14°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is freezing with highs of 5°C and lows of -14°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is freezing with highs of 7°C and lows of -11°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is freezing with highs of 9°C and lows of -9°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -7°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of -5°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
.jpg?width=600)
