Is San Pedro de Atacama Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile is not recommended for drinking due to high levels of arsenic.

Local authorities do not guarantee tap water safety, and residents often use bottled or filtered water for consumption.

Visitors are advised to stick to bottled or purified water to avoid health risks associated with arsenic exposure.

Chile is ranked as number 35 globally with a score of 80.1% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Tap water in San Pedro de Atacama comes from local wells and underground aquifers, which are prone to arsenic contamination.

Some tap water sources are also sourced from the Salar de Atacama salt flat, which can contribute to high salinity levels.

Additionally, surface water from the San Pedro River and surrounding streams may be used, but treatment is often inadequate.

San Pedro de Atacama Drinking Fountains

Some drinking fountains in San Pedro de Atacama are safe, using reverse osmosis or UV treatment to purify water.

These safe fountains are often found at hotels, hostels, and tourist facilities, which prioritize guest health and safety.

However, it's essential to verify the fountain's treatment method before drinking, as not all public fountains are safe.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in San Pedro de Atacama. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in San Pedro de Atacama is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.