Nevado Tres Cruces National Park
The magnitude of the Chilean highlands
The Nevado Tres Cruces National Park dominates the high Andean landscape with its extensive salt flats and high-altitude wetlands. It is located in the mountain range of the Atacama Region, encompassing the Salar de Maricunga and the Santa Rosa and Negro Francisco lagoons. These bodies of water are the vital habitat for herds of vicuñas and various species of flamingos that add color to the desert.
It is a territory that attracts expert mountaineers due to its enormous volcanoes: The Tres Cruces massif and the Copayapu volcano, considered a deity by the original peoples, guard this remote corner of the Atacama Desert.
Plan your trip to Nevado Tres Cruces National Park
How to get there
How to get there by air
Fly to Desierto de Atacama Airport (CPO), the air terminal of Copiapó. From there, the journey to the park takes about 3 hours (160 km) along Route 31. It is essential to continue in a 4×4 vehicle (rented or on a tour) and consider prior acclimatization, as the route exceeds 3,700 meters above sea level.
How to get there by land
From Copiapó, drive east along Route 31 (International Route). The journey to the park (Santa Rosa Lagoon sector) takes about 3 hours, covering 160 km. A 4×4 vehicle is mandatory, as the route is gravel and ascends to a high altitude. Plan your fuel, as there are no services along the way.
Must-Know Tips
The altitude of the park requires adequate acclimatization. It is essential to wear clothing for extreme cold, even in summer, and complete sun protection. Always check road and weather conditions before traveling. As a protected area, respect the fauna and leave no trace to help conserve this fragile ecosystem.
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