Treasures of the Altiplano: Lauca National Park and Lake Chungará
Updated on 25 de September, 2025
Volcanoes, history, and Andean fauna
2 DAYS
DISTANCIA
340 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
2 days
DESTINOS
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Putre, ancestral caves, and Jurasi Hot Springs
The adventure begins ascending from Arica towards the mountains. The destination is Putre, a picturesque town at 3,500 meters above sea level that will be your base for acclimatizing. The trip itself is a spectacle, with landscapes that change drastically as you gain altitude.
After settling in, begin your adaptation to the highlands with a gentle walk. The nearby Las Cuevas Trail is perfect for this; a short tour where you can observe vizcachas among rock formations and vestiges of ancient inhabitants, an excellent first connection with the history and nature of the area.
End your acclimatization day in the best way: relaxing in the rustic Jurasi Hot Springs. Its pools of volcanic waters are ideal for relaxing your muscles and enjoying the peace of the Andean environment, before having dinner and resting in Putre.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Putre, ancestral caves, and Jurasi Hot Springs
The adventure begins ascending from Arica towards the mountains. The destination is Putre, a picturesque town at 3,500 meters above sea level that will be your base for acclimatizing. The trip itself is a spectacle, with landscapes that change drastically as you gain altitude.
After settling in, begin your adaptation to the highlands with a gentle walk. The nearby Las Cuevas Trail is perfect for this; a short tour where you can observe vizcachas among rock formations and vestiges of ancient inhabitants, an excellent first connection with the history and nature of the area.
End your acclimatization day in the best way: relaxing in the rustic Jurasi Hot Springs. Its pools of volcanic waters are ideal for relaxing your muscles and enjoying the peace of the Andean environment, before having dinner and resting in Putre.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Visit to Lake Chungará
Once acclimatized, today we will go to the heart of Lauca National Park. The destination is the magnificent Lake Chungará, one of the highest in the world. Its emerald waters perfectly reflect the imposing silhouettes of the twin volcanoes Parinacota and Pomerape.
Take time to walk along its shores and visit viewpoints such as Chucuyo to get panoramic views. The park is a paradise for photography and the observation of Andean fauna, such as flamingos, giant coots, and vicuñas that roam freely through the bofedal.
On the way back, make a mandatory stop in the town of Parinacota. Visit its 17th-century church, declared a National Monument, and admire the adobe constructions that preserve the heritage of the Aymara culture before undertaking the descent from the mountains.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Visit to Lake Chungará
Once acclimatized, today we will go to the heart of Lauca National Park. The destination is the magnificent Lake Chungará, one of the highest in the world. Its emerald waters perfectly reflect the imposing silhouettes of the twin volcanoes Parinacota and Pomerape.
Take time to walk along its shores and visit viewpoints such as Chucuyo to get panoramic views. The park is a paradise for photography and the observation of Andean fauna, such as flamingos, giant coots, and vicuñas that roam freely through the bofedal.
On the way back, make a mandatory stop in the town of Parinacota. Visit its 17th-century church, declared a National Monument, and admire the adobe constructions that preserve the heritage of the Aymara culture before undertaking the descent from the mountains.
What you should know
How to get there by air
The starting point is Chacalluta International Airport in Arica (ARI), which receives flights from Santiago (SCL) and other air terminals throughout the country. Upon arrival, it is necessary to continue the journey by land, ascending towards the mountains to reach Putre, the base of your adventure.
How to get there by land
From Arica, you must travel 145 kilometers to Putre on Route 11-CH, a trip that takes about 3 hours. The same route crosses the park and connects with its main attractions. For a smooth trip, you should rent a 4×4 vehicle or hire a guided tour, as the distances are long and the terrain is high.
Climate and clothing
The highlands will surprise you with its intense sun during the day and very cold nights. Always dress in layers, including a thermal base layer, a fleece, and a windbreaker jacket. Do not forget your hat, gloves, and sun protection.
Must-Know Tips
Altitude sickness (puna) is a serious risk! Acclimatize by spending the first night in Putre before climbing to Lake Chungará, at 4,500 meters above sea level. Drink plenty of water, eat light, and avoid alcohol. The Altiplano sun is very strong.
