Parque Nacional Lauca

Located in the Andean Altiplano, this park boasts stunning high-altitude landscapes with volcanoes, hot springs, and the breathtaking Chungará Lake. It's...

Parque Nacional Lauca at a Glance

Location
Far North & Altiplano, Chile, Central & South America
Coordinates
-18.261534, -69.349014
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Parque Nacional Lauca

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 958 km away.

Big Five in Parque Nacional Lauca

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Mountain Lion.

Weather & Climate in Parque Nacional Lauca

The warmest temperatures in Parque Nacional Lauca occur in December, averaging 4.9°C (up to 11.8°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 0.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.6mm. Average humidity: 28.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 4.5°C (rainfall: 132.7mm)
  • February: 4.4°C (rainfall: 110.3mm)
  • March: 3.9°C (rainfall: 110.1mm)
  • April: 2.7°C (rainfall: 21.0mm)
  • May: 1.7°C (rainfall: 3.4mm)
  • June: 0.6°C (rainfall: 1.4mm)
  • July: 1.2°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
  • August: 1.3°C (rainfall: 1.6mm)
  • September: 3.1°C (rainfall: 4.1mm)
  • October: 3.8°C (rainfall: 21.6mm)
  • November: 4.7°C (rainfall: 27.2mm)
  • December: 4.9°C (rainfall: 84.5mm)

Best Time to Visit Parque Nacional Lauca

The best months to visit Parque Nacional Lauca are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 4.45°C, rainfall 132.7mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • February: Poor, temperature 4.44°C, rainfall 110.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 79.6%
  • March: Poor, temperature 3.89°C, rainfall 110.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 81.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 2.69°C, rainfall 21mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 57.3%
  • May: Great, temperature 1.74°C, rainfall 3.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 42.1%
  • June: Great, temperature 0.57°C, rainfall 1.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 34.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 1.22°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 28.3%
  • August: Great, temperature 1.34°C, rainfall 1.6mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 31.6%
  • September: Great, temperature 3.07°C, rainfall 4.1mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 32.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 3.82°C, rainfall 21.6mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 41.3%
  • November: Great, temperature 4.72°C, rainfall 27.2mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 46.5%
  • December: Good, temperature 4.94°C, rainfall 84.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 64.6%

Wildlife in Parque Nacional Lauca

Home to 32 recorded species including 14 waterbirds, 12 birds of prey, 2 predators, 2 iconic birds, 1 big herbivores, 1 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parque Nacional Lauca

Based on average temperature of 3.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 52%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 3°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Parque Nacional Lauca

11 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Far North & Altiplano

Visitor Tips - Parque Nacional Lauca

Parque Nacional Lauca is an otherworldly landscape where the Andes touch the sky, offering breathtaking views of turquoise lakes reflecting snow-capped volcanoes. We love the feeling of immense solitude and the privilege of witnessing vicuñas graze freely at over 4,500 meters, making it a truly unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

Gate Times

Parque Nacional Lauca typically operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, though we always recommend checking the CONAF website for the latest updates, especially concerning weather-related closures during winter months (June-August) when snow can make some roads impassable. Entry permits are required and can be purchased at the park entrance or, ideally, booked online in advance via the CONAF portal to save time.

Tipping

Tipping isn't as ingrained in Chilean national parks as it is in private safari concessions. However, if you hire a local guide for a day trip from Putre or Arica, we recommend tipping around 10,000-15,000 CLP per person for excellent service. For drivers, a smaller amount, perhaps 5,000-10,000 CLP, is appreciated.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Chile

Travel advisory for Chile

Parque Nacional Lauca FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Parque Nacional Lauca to experience its unique high-altitude landscapes and wildlife?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to November, when the skies are generally clear, offering spectacular views of Chungará Lake and the surrounding volcanoes. While daytime temperatures are mild, nights can be very cold due to the high altitude, so layering is essential.

Beyond the well-known vicuñas and llamas, what specific Andean wildlife can I hope to encounter in Parque Nacional Lauca, and in which areas?

You'll frequently spot vicuñas grazing in the altiplano grasslands and alpacas and llamas near local communities. The shores of Chungará Lake and other wetlands are prime locations for diverse Andean waterfowl, including Chilean flamingos and giant coots, while viscachas can often be seen sunning themselves on rocky outcrops.

Given Parque Nacional Lauca's extreme altitude, what are the essential precautions travelers should take to prevent altitude sickness?

Acclimatization is crucial; plan to spend a day or two at a lower altitude, like Arica or Putre, before ascending to the park. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and strenuous activity on your first day, and consult your doctor about medication like Diamox if you're particularly susceptible.

Besides wildlife spotting, what unique natural attractions and activities, such as hot springs or specific viewpoints, should I prioritize within Parque Nacional Lauca?

Don't miss the stunning panoramic views of Parinacota and Pomerape volcanoes reflected in Chungará Lake, often considered one of the highest lakes in the world. You can also visit the charming village of Parinacota with its historic church, or explore the thermal baths at Las Cuevas for a unique high-altitude relaxation experience.

What are the typical transportation options and associated costs for reaching Parque Nacional Lauca, and are there any specific entry fees?

Most visitors arrange tours from Arica or Putre, which typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals, costing around $80-$150 USD per person for a full-day trip. While there isn't a direct entry fee for the park itself, some tour operators might include a small conservation contribution, and private vehicle access is also possible via Route 11-CH.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.