Overview
Lauca National Park is a stunning high-altitude national park in northern Chile, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including vicuñas and flamingos. The park offers breathtaking landscapes with volcanoes, lagoons, and Andean wildlife.
natural
Location
Address
Putre, Arica and Parinacota
Neighborhood: Alto Andes
Coordinates
-18.178600, -69.185300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning 8-10am
clear skies, fewer tourists
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild with occasional rain
- • wildflowers
- • bird migration
summer
warm and dry
- • long daylight hours
- • warm temperatures
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
- • clear skies
winter
cold, possible snow
- • snow-covered landscapes
- • fewer crowds
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online for best prices
- Altitude sickness possible, acclimatize before visiting
- Modest dress code recommended
- Cash needed for some vendors
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate - involves walking and hiking
- • high altitude
- • uneven surfaces
- • no shade in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid station at main entrance
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards, mobile payments
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
comfortable and warm clothing, layers for changing temperatures, hiking boots, comfortable walking shoes required, high heels, flip-flops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks recommended
- • official website for best prices
- • full refund 48 hours before
- • express passes available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Lauca National Park App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Interactive GPS map, Audio guide in 3 languages, Wildlife spotting tips, Real-time weather updates, Digital ticket storage
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Main plaza
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Chacalluta International Airport
Distance: 200 km
Travel Time: 3-4 hours
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Important cultural and historical site for the Aymara people
Historical Significance: Site of ancient Aymara settlements
Insider Tips
- Free wildlife spotting tours every Tuesday at 8am
- Best local snacks from vendor at the main entrance
- Guides may allow special access if asked politely
- Local artisans sell handmade crafts near the park entrance
Local Recommendations
- • Try the famous local empanadas at the park's cafeteria
- • Ask for guide Carlos who speaks English and Spanish
- • Staff canteen serves authentic local food at great prices
- • Early morning visitors can see the most wildlife
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Aymara
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Chungará Lake viewpoint
Best Time: Golden hour (6-7pm)
Tips: Shoot from a low angle to capture the full landscape
Result: Dramatic reflection of the volcano in the lake
Parinacota Volcano base
Best Time: Early morning for clear skies
Tips: Get a wide-angle shot to capture the entire volcano
Result: Stunning view of the volcano against the sky
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Putre Market
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Market
Santa Rosa de Huarcas Thermas
Distance: 20 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Hot Springs
Reviews
Based on 8,420 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to save 10% and skip lines"
- "Best wildlife viewing from 6am to 9am"
- "Free guided tour at 8am is excellent"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
2
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
8,420
Adult Entry
$10