Great Altiplano Circuit: Lauca and Salar de Surire
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
The natural jewels of the far north
3 DAYS
Experience two days of deep immersion in the breathtaking beauty of the Chilean highlands. Combine the wonders of
DISTANCIA
625 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
3 days
DESTINOS
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Ascent to Putre and the Copaquilla Fortress
From Arica, your first stop will be traveling towards the mountains to reach Putre, a picturesque town 3,500 meters above sea level. There you can adapt to the highland climate and check in to your accommodation. We recommend doing the Las Cuevas Trail, a simple route where you can see vizcachas and archaeological remains.
End your day with a well-deserved rest in the Jurasi Hot Springs, pools of volcanic waters that are ideal for eliminating ailments and enjoying the immensity of the Andes.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Ascent to Putre and the Copaquilla Fortress
From Arica, your first stop will be traveling towards the mountains to reach Putre, a picturesque town 3,500 meters above sea level. There you can adapt to the highland climate and check in to your accommodation. We recommend doing the Las Cuevas Trail, a simple route where you can see vizcachas and archaeological remains.
End your day with a well-deserved rest in the Jurasi Hot Springs, pools of volcanic waters that are ideal for eliminating ailments and enjoying the immensity of the Andes.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Lake Chungará and Parinacota
Today the adventure continues towards the heart of Lauca National Park. The first major stop is Lake Chungará, famous for its extreme altitude and its emerald waters that mirror the image of the imposing Parinacota and Pomerape volcanoes.
Dedicate the morning to exploring its shores and capturing the best photos from viewpoints such as Chucuyo. The surrounding wetland is a meeting point for Andean fauna: get ready to spot flamingos, giant coots, and elegant vicuñas.
During the return journey, it will be essential to stop in the town of Parinacota. There you will have time to visit its architectural jewel, the 17th-century church (National Monument), and to stroll among the adobe constructions that preserve the Aymara legacy, before returning to Putre for a well-deserved rest.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Lake Chungará and Parinacota
Today the adventure continues towards the heart of Lauca National Park. The first major stop is Lake Chungará, famous for its extreme altitude and its emerald waters that mirror the image of the imposing Parinacota and Pomerape volcanoes.
Dedicate the morning to exploring its shores and capturing the best photos from viewpoints such as Chucuyo. The surrounding wetland is a meeting point for Andean fauna: get ready to spot flamingos, giant coots, and elegant vicuñas.
During the return journey, it will be essential to stop in the town of Parinacota. There you will have time to visit its architectural jewel, the 17th-century church (National Monument), and to stroll among the adobe constructions that preserve the Aymara legacy, before returning to Putre for a well-deserved rest.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 3
Salar de Surire and Polloquere Hot Springs
We close our adventure by traveling from Putre to the Salar de Surire Natural Monument. This salt flat of infinite white, located at 4,200 meters above sea level, is one of the best-kept secrets of the highlands and an important sanctuary for wildlife.
The main attraction of Surire are the three species of Andean flamingos that inhabit and feed in its shallow lagoons. The sight of hundreds of these pink birds, contrasting with the white of the salt flat and the blue of the sky, is a moving and unforgettable spectacle.
Before embarking on the long descent back to Arica, give yourself one last gift: a bath in the Polloquere Hot Springs. These natural pools are located on the same shore of the salt flat, offering an unparalleled panoramic view to relax and close this incredible highland circuit.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 3
Salar de Surire and Polloquere Hot Springs
We close our adventure by traveling from Putre to the Salar de Surire Natural Monument. This salt flat of infinite white, located at 4,200 meters above sea level, is one of the best-kept secrets of the highlands and an important sanctuary for wildlife.
The main attraction of Surire are the three species of Andean flamingos that inhabit and feed in its shallow lagoons. The sight of hundreds of these pink birds, contrasting with the white of the salt flat and the blue of the sky, is a moving and unforgettable spectacle.
Before embarking on the long descent back to Arica, give yourself one last gift: a bath in the Polloquere Hot Springs. These natural pools are located on the same shore of the salt flat, offering an unparalleled panoramic view to relax and close this incredible highland circuit.
What you should know
How to get there by air
If you are coming from abroad, you must land at the Santiago Airport (SCL) and then take a connection to the Chacalluta International Airport in Arica (ARI). 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
For this great 3-day circuit, a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour is absolutely essential. The routes that connect Putre, Lauca, and Surire are remote, high altitude, and largely unpaved, requiring experience driving in these conditions.
Climate and clothing
The highlands are a world of contrasts, with a very strong sun during the day and nights that can be freezing. Dress in layers using thermal clothing and a good windbreaker. A hat, gloves, and sunscreen are essential.
Must-Know Tips
: Don’t underestimate the altitude! Altitude sickness (puna) is a serious risk. For a safe trip, it is vital to sleep the first night in Putre to acclimatize before climbing to more than 4,200 meters in the following days. Remember to respect the local fauna; responsible tourism is a joint effort.
