Did you know that Lauca National Park is home to one of the world’s highest lakes? Lake Chungará sits at a breathtaking 4,570 meters (14,993 feet) above sea level, making it the 31st highest lake on the planet. This pristine body of water, with the perfect cone of Parinacota Volcano reflected in its crystal-clear surface, is just one of the many natural wonders awaiting visitors to this remote Chilean paradise.
Located in northern Chile near the borders with Peru and Bolivia, Lauca National Park spans 137,883 hectares of pristine Andean highlands. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981, this park offers visitors a chance to experience one of South America’s most spectacular landscapes, with snow-capped volcanoes, azure lakes, and abundant wildlife including llamas, alpacas, and flamingos.
This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable journey to Lauca National Park, covering everything from transportation and accommodation to the best activities and essential tips for dealing with the high altitude.
Getting to Lauca National Park
The gateway to Lauca National Park is the city of Arica, located on Chile’s northern coast. Most visitors begin their journey here, as Arica has an international airport with daily flights from Santiago. From Arica, you have several options to reach the park:
- By Bus: Regular buses run from Arica to Putre (a small town about 40km from the park entrance) for around 4,000 CLP one-way. Buses La Paloma offers daily service departing at 7:00 am.
- By Rental Car: Renting a vehicle gives you the most flexibility to explore the park at your own pace. The drive from Arica to the park takes about 3-4 hours via the CH-11 International Highway. Rental Cars are available at Arica airport.
- By Tour: Many tour operators in Arica offer day trips or multi-day excursions to Lauca National Park, which can be a good option if you’re short on time or prefer having a guide.
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Best Time to Visit Lauca National Park
The ideal time to visit Lauca National Park is during the dry season, from September to December. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies, better visibility of the spectacular landscapes, and more comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploration.
From January to March, the region experiences what locals call the “Bolivian Winter” – a period of increased rainfall and occasional storms in the highlands. While the park remains open year-round, weather conditions can be unpredictable during this season.
Regardless of when you visit, be prepared for significant temperature fluctuations. Daytime temperatures rarely exceed 20°C (68°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, especially during winter months (June-August).
| Season | Months | Weather | Recommendation |
| Dry Season (Best) | September-December | Clear skies, minimal precipitation | Ideal for hiking and photography |
| Bolivian Winter | January-March | Occasional rain and storms | Less ideal but still visitable |
| Winter | June-August | Very cold nights, clear days | Good for wildlife, bring warm clothing |
| Shoulder Season | April-May | Transitional, generally dry | Fewer visitors, good conditions |
Where to Stay in Lauca National Park
Accommodation options within and around Lauca National Park are limited but sufficient for most travelers. Most visitors choose to stay in one of these locations:
Putre
This small town located about 40km from the park entrance is the most popular base for exploring Lauca. Putre sits at 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level, making it an ideal place to acclimatize before heading higher into the park. You’ll find several hostels and small hotels here with basic but comfortable amenities.
Parinacota
This tiny village is located within the park boundaries at 4,400 meters (14,435 feet) elevation. Staying here puts you right in the heart of the park, but options are very limited – just a few basic hostels and homestays. The historic church and traditional architecture make it a charming place to spend a night.
Camping
For the adventurous, camping is permitted in designated areas near Lake Chungará and Parinacota. There are no formal facilities, so you must be self-sufficient. Remember that temperatures drop significantly at night, so proper cold-weather camping gear is essential.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Lauca National Park
Book accommodation in Arica or Putre to ensure a comfortable base for your Lauca adventure.
Top Attractions in Lauca National Park
Lake Chungará
One of the highest lakes in the world at 4,570 meters (14,993 feet), Lake Chungará offers spectacular views of the twin volcanoes Parinacota and Pomerape reflected in its crystal-clear waters. The lake is home to various bird species, including Andean gulls and giant coots. The viewpoint on the international highway provides perfect photo opportunities.
Cotacotani Lagoons
Located just 4km northwest of Lake Chungará, this collection of small interconnected lagoons offers a different but equally beautiful landscape. The lagoons are surrounded by wetland vegetation and provide habitat for flamingos and other water birds. A short walking trail allows visitors to explore the area.
Parinacota Volcano
This perfectly cone-shaped volcano stands at 6,342 meters (20,807 feet) and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the park. Its snow-capped peak creates a stunning backdrop for the surrounding landscape. Advanced mountaineers can arrange climbing expeditions to the summit, though this requires proper acclimatization and experience.
Parinacota Village
This small Aymara settlement features a beautiful 17th-century church that was declared a National Monument in 1979. The white adobe church with its distinctive volcanic stone crown is a perfect example of Andean colonial architecture and provides insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
Las Cuevas Trail
This easy 1.5km trail takes about 35 minutes to complete and leads to interesting rock formations and caves. It’s a good option for those who want to experience the landscape without undertaking a strenuous hike at high altitude.
Things to Do in Lauca National Park
Hiking
Several well-marked trails cater to different fitness levels. The most popular route is the 16km trail connecting Parinacota Village to Lake Chungará via the Cotacotani Lagoons. This trail takes approximately 6 hours round-trip and offers some of the most spectacular views in the park. For less strenuous options, try the Las Cuevas Trail (1.5km) or the Chungará Trail (1km).
Wildlife Watching
Lauca is home to an impressive array of Andean wildlife. Look for vicuñas, guanacos, and viscachas (similar to rabbits) on the plains, and keep your eyes on the skies for condors. The wetlands around the lakes attract three species of flamingos, Andean geese, and giant coots.
Photography
The combination of dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and extraordinary light conditions makes Lauca a photographer’s paradise. The early morning light on Lake Chungará with the volcanoes reflected in its surface is particularly magical. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries as they drain faster at high altitudes.
Cultural Exploration
Visit the historic church in Parinacota Village and learn about the indigenous Aymara culture that has thrived in this challenging environment for centuries. If possible, time your visit to coincide with local festivals where you can witness traditional music, dance, and customs.
Mountaineering
For experienced climbers, the volcanoes of Lauca present an exciting challenge. Parinacota (6,342m) and Pomerape (6,282m) are the most popular climbing objectives. These expeditions require proper acclimatization, technical skills, and preferably a local guide. Several companies in Arica and Putre offer guided climbing services.
Practical Tips for Visiting Lauca National Park
Dealing with Altitude
The high elevation of Lauca National Park (mostly above 4,000 meters/13,123 feet) means that altitude sickness is a real concern. To minimize your risk:
- Spend at least one night in Putre (3,500m/11,483ft) to acclimatize before heading higher into the park
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals
- Consider taking acetazolamide (Diamox) after consulting with a doctor
- Move slowly and avoid strenuous activity during your first day at altitude
- Chew coca leaves or drink coca tea, traditional Andean remedies for altitude sickness
What to Pack
Proper preparation is essential for an enjoyable visit to Lauca. Be sure to bring:
- Warm clothing (even in summer) including a windproof/waterproof jacket
- Layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes
- Sturdy hiking boots
- High SPF sunscreen (the sun is intense at high altitudes)
- Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
- Insulated water bottle
- Basic first aid kit including medication for headaches
- Snacks and food supplies (limited options in the park)
- Camera with extra batteries (they drain faster in cold)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Safety Information
While Lauca National Park is generally safe, there are some important considerations:
- Cell phone coverage is limited or non-existent in most of the park
- Inform someone of your plans if hiking independently
- Carry sufficient water and emergency supplies
- Be aware of weather changes, which can happen rapidly
- The nearest medical facilities are in Putre (basic) and Arica (more comprehensive)
Food and Supplies
Food options within the park are extremely limited. The small settlements of Putre and Parinacota have a few basic restaurants serving simple Andean cuisine, but don’t expect gourmet dining. It’s advisable to:
- Stock up on supplies in Arica before heading to the park
- Bring non-perishable snacks and easy-to-prepare meals if camping
- Carry more water than you think you’ll need (at least 2-3 liters per person per day)
- Try local specialties like alpaca meat and quinoa dishes when available
There are no gas stations in Putre or within the park, so fill your tank in Arica if driving. ATMs are also scarce, so bring sufficient cash for your entire stay.
Map of Lauca National Park
Suggested Itinerary for Lauca National Park
For the best experience, we recommend spending at least 3 days exploring Lauca National Park. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Acclimatization in Putre
Arrive in Arica and drive or take the bus to Putre. Spend the day exploring this small Andean town and adjusting to the altitude. Visit the colonial church and take a short walk around the surroundings to help your body adapt. Overnight in Putre.
Day 2: Parinacota and Las Cuevas Trail
Head into the park and visit the historic village of Parinacota. Explore the 17th-century church and take the easy Las Cuevas Trail to begin experiencing the park’s landscapes. Continue to Lake Chungará for sunset views. Overnight in Parinacota or return to Putre.
Day 3: Lake Chungará and Cotacotani Lagoons
Spend the morning at Lake Chungará for wildlife watching and photography. Take the trail to the Cotacotani Lagoons and enjoy a picnic lunch with spectacular views. In the afternoon, visit other viewpoints along the international highway before returning to Putre or continuing to Arica.
For those with more time, consider adding a day for the longer Parinacota-Cotacotani-Chungará hike or, for experienced mountaineers, arrange a guided climb of one of the volcanoes (which would require additional days for proper acclimatization).
Create Your Perfect Lauca National Park Adventure
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Conclusion
Lauca National Park offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of South America’s most spectacular landscapes. From the perfect cone of Parinacota Volcano to the mirror-like surface of Lake Chungará, the park’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking. While the high altitude and remote location present challenges, proper preparation ensures a rewarding adventure that few travelers experience.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, hiker, or cultural explorer, Lauca has something special to offer. The combination of dramatic Andean scenery, unique wildlife, and ancient cultural heritage creates an unforgettable destination that showcases Chile at its most magnificent.
Ready to witness landscapes where the Andes touch the sky? Lauca National Park awaits your discovery!
The above is subject to change.
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