Arica: Full day to Lauca National Park and Chungara Lake, meals included

Exploring the Wonders of Lauca and Chungara: A Full-Day Tour from Arica

If you’re curious about the far northern reaches of Chile, this full-day tour offers an authentic glimpse into a landscape filled with volcanic peaks, high-altitude lakes, and ancient villages. For around $160 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring Lauca National Park, visiting the spectacular Chungara Lake, and wandering through historic villages like Parinacota and Putre. The tour includes hotel pickup, a friendly guide, and a hearty included lunch, making it a convenient way to see some of Chile’s most breathtaking scenery without needing your own transport.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with cultural heritage. The visits to archaeological sites like the Pucara de Copaquilla and the Tambo de Zapahuira give you a sense of the area’s long history, while the panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes and flamingos wading in the lakes make for unforgettable photos. Plus, the chance to spot local wildlife such as Guanacos, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and Llamas adds a lively dimension to the experience.

One potential consideration is the high-altitude nature of this tour. At points like Chungara Lake, you’ll be at around 4,500 meters above sea level, so some travelers might need to take it easy to avoid altitude sickness. The full-day schedule also means early mornings and a fair amount of driving, which could be tiring for those with limited mobility or young children.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love striking landscapes, are interested in archaeology, and want a comprehensive day trip that balances nature with culture. It’s also a great way to get off the beaten path of Arica and see something truly unique in northern Chile.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: Experience the stunning vistas of volcanic peaks, high-altitude lakes, and lush valleys.
• Cultural Insights: Visit ancient archaeological sites and traditional villages to connect with local history.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot iconic Andean animals like Guanacos, Vicuñas, and flamingos in their natural habitat.
• Inclusive Comfort: Hotel pickup, a guided experience, and a included meal make this a convenient day out.
• Altitude Awareness: Be prepared for high elevations, especially at Chungara Lake, to avoid altitude sickness.
• Small Group: The tour limits to 14 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Detailed Look at the Lauca and Chungara Experience

Starting the Day: Picking Up and Hitting the Road

The day begins bright and early, around 7:00 am, with hotel pickup included. This is particularly handy if you’re staying in Arica, saving you the hassle of finding your way to a meeting point. As you settle into your vehicle—usually a comfortable minibus or car—you’ll quickly notice how scenic the drive is, as you head towards the border with Bolivia and into the Lluta Valley. During this ascent, you’ll get glimpses of lively local villages and archaeological sites that hint at the area’s long history.

First Stops: Archaeology and Local Villages

Within the first two hours, the tour takes you to some fascinating sites. The Tambo de Zapahuira is an Inca-era complex with rectangular adobe enclosures and funerary towers called chullpas, declared a National Monument. Visiting this site offers a tangible connection to the area’s pre-Columbian past. Near there, you’ll see the Pucara de Copaquilla, a defensive fortress from the 12th century, perched on a cliff with about 400 enclosures inside. Both sites are not only impressive remnants of ancient ingenuity but also provide excellent opportunities for photos and understanding regional history.

We loved the way these sites are integrated into the landscape—clinging to cliffs or set against volcanic backdrops—highlighting how ancient cultures adapted to and thrived in these high-altitude environments. The panoramic views of Socoroma and Putre, with its alfalfa fields and snowy volcanoes, are an added bonus, giving you a glimpse into local life and scenery.

Entering Lauca National Park: Volcanoes and Wildlife

After these cultural stops, your journey continues into Lauca National Park, a true sanctuary of volcanoes and snow-capped peaks. Here, the landscape is marked by majestic volcanoes like Parinacota, Pomerape, Quimsachatas, and Guallatire. The park is also home to Guanacos, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and other wildlife, which you might spot grazing or resting in the high-altitude terrain.

While the park entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, the park’s natural wonders are well worth any additional cost. The view of these rugged volcanic giants is striking—imagine the raw power of Earth’s forces condensed into this high-altitude adventure.

The Highlight: Lago Chungara

The centerpiece of the day is the spectacular Chungara Lake, perched at 4,500 meters. The lake’s expansive, greenish waters reflect the surrounding volcanoes, creating a scene that’s as surreal as it is beautiful. The lagoons nearby—Cotacotani, Llareta, and Paja Brava—add to the vivid landscape, giving you a chance to appreciate the unique flora of the high Andes.

As one reviewer noted, “In its spectacular landscapes, the Bofedales, the Llareta, the Paja Brava and the Cotacotani Lagoons stand out, with their wonderful green color.” Birdlife here is abundant, with sightings of pink flamingos, ducks, and even the giant tagua. We loved the way the scenery seemed almost otherworldly—crisp, clean air, and sweeping views that make you want to pause and take it all in.

Cultural Stops: Parinacota Village and Local Traditions

After soaking in the lakes, you’ll visit the village of Parinacota, with its traditional Andean colonial architecture. The 17th-century church is a highlight, along with the friendly local Aymara people whose traditions continue robustly. This visit offers insight into how communities adapt to the highlands’ challenges and maintain their cultural identity.

Lunch and Return: A Satisfying End to the Day

Lunch is included—likely a hearty Chilean meal—giving you energy after a morning of sightseeing. The return journey to Arica takes you through the Lluta Valley, where you’ll stop at geoglyphs and the impressive Candelabro Cacti in Los Cardones Ravine. These natural and archaeological features provide a fitting finale, emphasizing how geology and culture intertwine in this landscape.

The tour concludes around 8:00 pm back in Arica, tired but enriched by a full day experiencing the high-altitude wonders of northern Chile.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour offers an authentic experience, blending natural beauty with archaeological insights. The small group size (maximum 14 travelers) fosters a more personal experience, and the guide’s knowledge helps you understand what you’re seeing—beyond just snapping photos.

A word of advice: due to the altitude, some travelers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, so staying hydrated and pacing yourself is wise. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially when exploring archaeological sites and walking around the lakes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re drawn to dramatic landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and ancient ruins, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for those interested in archaeology, nature, and photography. If you’re reasonably fit and prepared for early mornings and some altitude, you’ll find this experience both enriching and visually stunning. For families with children under nine or travelers sensitive to altitude, it might be a bit demanding, but for most, it’s an unforgettable adventure.

Final Thoughts

This full-day journey from Arica offers a thoughtful mix of natural splendor and cultural heritage. The chance to see Lauca’s volcanoes, Chungara Lake, and traditional villages all in one day makes it a great value—especially considering the included lunch and hotel pickup. The scenery alone is enough to make it worthwhile, but the archaeological sites and local villages add a tangible sense of history and culture to the experience.

For travelers wanting a comprehensive look at northern Chile’s high-altitude landscapes, this tour delivers. It’s a chance to step away from the typical tourist spots and see a landscape that’s as rugged as it is beautiful, with the added bonus of local stories and traditions that bring the scenery to life.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is usually around 7:00 am, so plan to be ready in advance for a smooth start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 9 are not allowed on this tour, likely due to the altitude and physical demands.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, sun protection, and plenty of water. The high altitude can make the sun more intense and the air dry.

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
No, entrance tickets to Lauca National Park are not included, but the archaeological sites and lakes are free to visit.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of breathtaking landscapes, archaeological sites, and cultural stops makes it a well-rounded day for those wanting more than just scenery.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hearty lunch is part of the package, allowing you to refuel for the afternoon’s activities.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
It’s best to book at least 41 days in advance for availability, but you can check directly with the provider for last-minute openings.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

What about weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions—dress appropriately, especially for high-altitude exposure.

Is it worth the price?
Given the remote locations, guided insights, included meals, and transportation, the price offers good value for a full day of exploration.

This guided trip from Arica beautifully showcases the rugged, ancient, and awe-inspiring sides of northern Chile. Whether you’re snapping photos of flamingos at Chungara Lake, exploring prehistoric sites, or simply marveling at the volcanoes, it’s a trip that will leave you with lasting memories of this dramatic landscape.