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 generally treated and meets national safety standards. However, due to local infrastructure variations, quality may vary.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Visitors often prefer bottled or filtered water to avoid potential stomach issues. The region's arid climate and remote location can affect water system reliability.

For sensitive individuals, using bottled water is recommended. Local health authorities advise caution and suggest drinking treated or bottled water to ensure safety.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

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 primarily comes from underground aquifers and wells in the Andean foothills. These sources provide groundwater.

Additionally, some water is sourced from small local reservoirs collecting Andean snowmelt. This contributes to the limited, seasonal water supply.

The water undergoes treatment to remove contaminants before distribution. However, scarcity and high mineral content can impact water quality locally.

San Pedro de Atacama Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in San Pedro de Atacama may not always guarantee safe water due to potential contamination and inconsistent maintenance.

Visitors are advised to be cautious and consider using bottled or treated water instead to avoid health risks.

Local health guidelines generally recommend avoiding direct consumption from public fountains unless clearly marked as 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.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

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.