"ALTIPLANIC LAGOONS & CHAXA LAGOON" Tour

"ALTIPLANIC LAGOONS & CHAXA LAGOON" Tour

ALTIPLANIC LAGOONS & CHAXA LAGOON in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. Discover one of the most spectacular natural experiences in northern Chile with the Altiplanic Lagoons & Chaxa Lagoon excursion, a journey into the heart of the Andean highlands surrounding San Pedro de Atacama. This unforgettable tour showcases breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and the serene beauty of high-altitude ecosystems set against the majestic backdrop of the Andes Mountains. The experience begins with a scenic drive across the Altiplano, where vast open plains, volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon. The highlight of this journey is a visit to the stunning Altiplanic Lagoons, typically Miscanti and Miñiques, located at over 4,000 meters above sea level. These deep-blue lagoons are surrounded by dramatic volcanic terrain and are home to native bird species such as flamingos, Andean geese, and vicuñas. The contrast between the intense blue waters, golden grasses, and towering mountains creates an awe-inspiring and tranquil atmosphere.

The tour continues to Chaxa Lagoon, part of the Atacama Salt Flat within the Los Flamencos National Reserve. This shallow saltwater lagoon is one of the best places in the region to observe Andean, James’s, and Chilean flamingos in their natural habitat. Wooden walkways allow visitors to explore the area respectfully while enjoying close-up views of these elegant birds and the unique salt formations that characterize this extraordinary landscape. Throughout the excursion, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the geology, biodiversity, and cultural significance of the Altiplano, enriching the experience with stories about ancestral Andean communities and their relationship with this extreme environment.

The Altiplanic Lagoons & Chaxa Lagoon tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking an authentic connection with the high-altitude beauty of the Atacama Desert. Combining dramatic scenery, wildlife observation, and cultural interpretation, this experience offers a truly memorable glimpse into one of Chile’s most remarkable natural regions.

Itinerary

• Our excursion departs early in the morning (approximately between 8:00 and 8:30 am), heading toward the Andean highlands. As we gradually ascend into the puna ecosystem, we will be surrounded by vast landscapes characterized by unique high-altitude vegetation, native wildlife, shimmering lagoons, and expansive salt flats.
• We will enjoy a guided walk of approximately 30 minutes along marked trails, allowing us to explore the impressive Laguna Miscanti, the largest lagoon in the Antofagasta Region, as well as the scenic Laguna Miñiques, beautifully set at the foot of surrounding volcanoes.
• The journey continues to the Salar de Atacama, with a special visit to Laguna Chaxa, a key site within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, renowned for its biodiversity and flamingo populations. Along the route, we will stop to visit the traditional village of Toconao and enjoy a box lunch, which will be served either during a scenic stop along the way or in the charming town of Socaire, depending on the group’s preferences.
• We will also make a stop at the Tropic of Capricorn, an important geographic landmark that signals the start of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, where remnants of the ancient Inca Trail can still be observed.
• The excursion concludes with our return to San Pedro de Atacama at approximately 4:00 pm, followed by hotel drop-off.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English.
• Entrance fees.
• Pick-up from your accommodation,
• Snack.

Does not include

• Tips and gratuities.
• Professional guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.
• Other services not described in the program.

Notes:

• Level of difficulty: medium difficulty (due to the altitude of 4200 meters above sea level).
• Minimum age required for the tour: 8 years old.
• The pickup and return times depend on the season and will be confirmed upon booking confirmation.
• The order of site visits may vary depending on weather conditions and group dynamics.