SACRED LAGOONS TREKKING

Discover the magic of the Chilean Altiplano on this 4-day trekking adventure through three national parks, where sacred lagoons, ancient trails, and Andean culture come together. Located at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, these lagoons are home to unique highland wildlife, including giant coots, puna ducks, Andean gulls, and flamingos. The surrounding landscapes are inhabited by herds of vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas, while the native vegetation features queñoas, llaretas, tola shrubs, and vast wetlands.

To ensure proper acclimatization, the journey begins with a cultural hike along the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca trail recognized by UNESCO in 2014. Over the following days, travelers will explore the Chucuyo Lagoons, Lake Chungará, the turquoise Cotacotani Lagoons, the mystical Casiri Lagoons, and the breathtaking Surire Salt Flat. This is more than just a trek: it is an immersion into the ancestral landscapes and traditions of the high Andes.

Day 1 – Arica to Socoroma (3,000 m / 9,840 ft)

From your hotel in Arica, the adventure begins with a visit to Cerro Sombrero in the Azapa Valley, where geoglyphs such as La Tropilla illustrate the caravans of camelids that once crossed the Andes. At the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum, you will learn about the world-famous Chinchorro mummies, declared UNESCO World Heritage in 2021. Gradually ascending through ecological zones, you will walk the Candelabra Cactus Trail, the Pucará de Copaquilla, and the ancient Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail). Dinner and overnight in the charming Aymara village of Socoroma.

Day 2 – Socoroma – Lake Chungará – Putre (3,500 m / 11,480 ft)

The second day explores Lauca National Park, one of Chile’s most beautiful reserves. Highlights include trekking the Las Cuevas Trail, the lagoons of Chucuyo, and a visit to the traditional village of Parinacota, with its colonial church and the legend of La Mesa. Continue with a hike around the Cotacotani Lagoons, admire the immense Lake Chungará, and relax at the Jurasi Hot Springs. Dinner and camping overnight in Putre.

Day 3 – Putre – Caquena – Casiri Lagoons – Chivatambo (4,200 m / 13,780 ft)

After breakfast, the trek continues toward Caquena, home to the largest highland wetland in the region. From here, ascend to the mystical Casiri Macho and Casiri Hembra Lagoons, located near the Chile–Bolivia border. After a rewarding trek, continue toward the remote Churigualla hot springs and the pastoral community of Chivatambo, where Andean shepherds still live traditionally. Dinner and camping overnight in Chivatambo.

Day 4 – Chivatambo – Surire Salt Flat – Arica

The final day explores Las Vicuñas National Reserve and the Surire Salt Flat Natural Monument. Walk along the Misitune wetlands and the Diablo Marka trail, cross the Lauca River, and enjoy panoramic views of the Surire Salt Flat. Spot flamingos and other highland wildlife before bathing in the wild thermal waters of Polloquere. The expedition concludes with the return to Arica via Parcohaylla, dropping you off at your hotel.

INCLUDED

• Authorized tourist transportation
• Local Aymara trekking guide (WFR – WAFA certified)
• 1 night in Socoroma
• 1 night camping in Putre
• 1 night camping in Chivatambo estancia
• High-mountain tent (The North Face)
• Down sleeping bag (RAB)
• Insulating mat (Therm-a-Rest) + inflatable mat (Tatoo)
• Camping light
• Full board (breakfasts, box lunches/trekking meals, dinners)
• Hot infusions (tea, mate, coffee)
• A glass of wine with dinners
• Mineral water during treks
• Souvenir gift
• Trekking insurance
• Gourmet local dinner at La Casona del Rey (Putre)
• Optional trekking poles
• Entrance tickets: Cotacotani Lagoons, Jurasi Hot Springs, San Miguel de Azapa Museum

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

• Oxygen
• Oximeter
• Satellite phone
• First aid kit
• Motorola DEP450 radios

NOT INCLUDED

• Additional beverages
• Personal expenses not specified in the program

IMPORTANT

• Minimum: 2 participants
• Discounts available for groups over 4 persons