Descripcion
This tour offers a complete immersion into the history, culture, and nature of northern Chile. From archaeological and cultural sites to spectacular natural landscapes, you will experience a rich and diverse day that reveals the wealth of the Andean highlands.
Day 1
We will pick you up from your hotel in Arica at 8:00 AM. Our first stop is the Azapa Valley, known for its lush vegetation contrasting with the surrounding desert. Here, we will visit the San Miguel de Azapa Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of archaeological artifacts and Chinchorro mummies, one of the oldest forms of mummification in the world. Next, we will head to the Lluta Valley, a fertile valley offering a beautiful contrast to the desert landscape. In this valley, we will visit the Church of Poconchile, a charming colonial church that reflects the architecture and cultural heritage of the region. Our next stop will be at the Quebrada de Cardones National Monument, an area known for its impressive giant candelabra-shaped cacti. We will also explore the Magnetic Zone, an area of unique geomagnetic phenomena that offers a fascinating and one-of-a-kind experience. We will continue to the picturesque village of Malku, where we will experience life in a traditional Andean community and enjoy local hospitality. Then, we will head to the Pucará de Copaquilla, an ancient archaeological site that served as a fortress and ceremonial center. Here, we will explore the pre-Hispanic ruins and learn about the history and culture of the Andean inhabitants. Our next stop is the Tambo de Zapahuira, an old rest and supply site for travelers in the Andean region. This place offers interesting insights into ancient roads and communication networks in the highlands. We will continue to the town of Socoroma, known for its traditional architecture and charming surroundings. Here, we will explore the Inca Road, an ancient trade and communication route showcasing the engineering and skill of pre-Columbian civilizations. Finally, we will conclude our tour in Putre, a peaceful and picturesque Andean town located at a high altitude. Here, you will have time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the highlands.
Day 2
At 8:00 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel in Putre and head toward the surroundings of Lauca National Park: a beautiful high plateau landscape located in the far north of Chile, near the border with Bolivia. Our first stop will be at Lake Chungará, situated at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. After admiring its stunning scenery, we will proceed to the heart of Lauca National Park to take in the impressive Payachata volcanoes. The main peaks are Parinacota, Pomerape, Acotango, and Guallatiri, all exceeding 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) in elevation. As we explore this protected natural area, we will see the famous alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas of the Chilean high plateau. We will pause for a set-menu lunch at a local restaurant. The route will continue to the Cotacotani Lagoons, another natural jewel of Lauca National Park. The park’s surroundings also have a very special charm, which we will discover by visiting the town of Parinacota, whose church is declared a National Monument. Additionally, we will learn about the area’s past at the archaeological sites of Chaku and Las Cuevas.
Finally, between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, we will return to your hotel in Putre.
Day 3
At 7:00 AM, we will depart from your hotel in Putre heading to the Las Vicuñas National Reserve. On the border with Bolivia lies the spectacular Surire Salt Flat Natural Monument. During the tour of the salt flat, located at 4,245 meters above sea level, we will see the landscapes of one of the main flamingo nesting sites in South America. This area of the high Andean mountain range is also home to various native animals such as ñandus, vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and Andean geese (guallatas). As we try to spot some of these animals, we will cross different zones including rivers, lagoons, volcanoes, and bofedales (high-altitude wetlands). We will also visit the main inhabited sites in the area. The most important is the town of Guallatire, known for its picturesque church. Next, we will take a break for a picnic-style lunch that includes sandwiches, nuts, chocolates, and natural juices. After recharging, we will visit another major attraction of the Surire Salt Flat: the Polloquere hot springs. Finally, between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, we will return to your hotel in Putre.
Finally, we will begin the return trip to Arica, with an expected arrival at your hotel around 8:00 PM.
Includes: Shared transportation, first aid, Spanish-speaking driver-guide. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and accommodations. If you need a private trip or an English-speaking guide, the price can be negotiated. There is plenty of time to plan your visit. Small groups with a minimum of 2 passengers to start.
*Ticket price for San Miguel Museum: $2,000.
Not Included: English-speaking guide, alcoholic beverages, drinks or juices, hot and cold water.
English 
Spanish