Overview
Lauca National Park sits in the far north of Chile on the altiplano, at 4,000 m or higher. Lake Chungará, at about 4,517 m, is one of the highest lakes in the world, with the twin snow-capped volcanoes Parinacota and Pomerape reflected in its water.
The park is home to herds of vicuña, alpacas and llamas, flamingos and Andean birds, and villages with colonial-era churches, such as Parinacota. Many people stay in Putre, at about 3,500 m, to adjust to the altitude. The park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, and altitude and cold are the main challenges for visitors.
Highlights
- Lake Chungará and the Parinacota volcano
- Vicuñas and flamingos in the wetlands
- The village of Parinacota and its white church
- Hot springs and stargazing near Putre
Best time to visit
April to November is the dry season, with clear days and very cold nights. December to March is the altiplanic winter, with afternoon storms and rain that can affect roads. Sun is strong all year at this altitude.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Good
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Arica (ARI), then drive about three hours to Putre, spending a night or two to acclimatise before going to the lake. Tours and rental cars run from Arica. The roads are paved to the park, but weather can close sections.
What to expect
Moderate. The effort is mainly from altitude: headaches, tiredness and breathlessness are common above 4,000 m. Take it slowly, drink water and avoid heavy exertion on the first days.
Practical tips
- Acclimatise in Putre or Arica for at least a night before going to the lake.
- Carry warm clothes, sun protection and plenty of water.
- Drive carefully, as the roads have altitude, wind and wildlife hazards.
- Respect local communities and park rules about wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Lake Chungará?
About 4,517 m above sea level.
Is altitude sickness a problem?
It can be. Acclimatise in Putre first and go slowly.
When is the best time to visit?
April to November, when the weather is dry and clear.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Chile Travel, the official tourism website
- CONAF, Chile's national parks agency
- UK government travel advice: Chile
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Ferna.mf (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
