Lago Chungará
One of the world's highest lakes, offering stunning volcanic vistas and unique wildlife at 4,570m.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies for stunning views
Lago Chungará
Best Time
Clear skies for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
One of the world's highest lakes, offering stunning volcanic vistas and unique wildlife at 4,570m.
"Out of this world Breathtaking scenario. The rute from Arica to Chungara is just amazing."
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm clothing, even in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Azure Expanse
Lago Chungará
One of the world's highest lakes, its vibrant blue waters reflect the surrounding volcanoes. A truly breathtaking sight.
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Volcanic Sentinels
Parque Nacional Lauca
Majestic volcanoes like Parinacota and Pomerape frame the lake, creating an unforgettable, dramatic landscape.
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Altiplano Wildlife
Parque Nacional Lauca
Keep an eye out for vicuñas, alpacas, and even pumas in their natural high-altitude habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Plan Your Journey
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm clothing, even in summer.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The highway is good, but be mindful of wildlife and potential hazards.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Respect the pristine environment. Pack out all trash.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Crucial at high altitudes. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm clothing, even in summer.
🚗 Drive Carefully
The highway is good, but be mindful of wildlife and potential hazards.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Respect the pristine environment. Pack out all trash.
🦙 Spot Vicuñas
These graceful animals are often seen grazing near the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lago Chungará for its breathtaking, otherworldly beauty, with many describing it as a 'must-see' destination. The stunning reflections of volcanoes and the unique high-altitude wildlife are major highlights. However, the significant altitude requires careful preparation to avoid sickness, and the long drive from Arica is a factor to consider.
"Beautiful spot you can see the lake the volcano and some animals the altitude is something to be respectful 4.500 mts over sea. But the highway is super good, you can pass to Bolivia and see the other area of the lake."
Paula (Pau)
"Truly amazing place. A long drive but so worth it!!! The different landscapes are truly spectacular. Going from sea level to 4,500 meters in altitude in three hours is crazy. 13 km from Bolivia. Crazy. Glad we did it and took the long drive from Arica."
JP G (JP)
"Lake Chungara near limits with Bolivia , nice scenery you see vicuña around it is over 4000 mts , be careful with the height!"
Peter Steel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car or tour from Arica. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours and is part of the stunning Ruta 11. Tours are highly recommended for ease and acclimatization advice. +1
Yes, the highway (Ruta 11) is generally in good condition, but driving at high altitudes requires caution. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
Lago Chungará is located near the border, and you can cross into Bolivia from here. The highway connects directly to the Bolivian border.
Spend a day in Arica (sea level) and then a night in Putre (around 3,500m) before heading to Lago Chungará. This gradual ascent helps prevent altitude sickness.
Direct public transport is limited. Most visitors opt for organized tours from Arica or hire private transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Lago Chungará itself is free. However, it is located within the Parque Nacional Lauca, which may have associated fees or regulations managed by CONAF.
As a natural attraction within a national park, there are no strict opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
No advance booking is required for entry to Lago Chungará as it is free. However, if you are booking a tour, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Visitors must respect the natural environment, avoid littering, and adhere to park regulations. CONAF park rangers are present to ensure conservation.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to the extreme cold temperatures of the water and the high altitude.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Lago Chungará is situated at an impressive altitude of approximately 4,570 meters (14,993 feet) above sea level.
You can often spot vicuñas, alpacas, flamingos, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for pumas and foxes as well.
There are several viewpoints along the highway offering stunning perspectives of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. The roadside pull-offs provide excellent photo opportunities.
The main concern is altitude sickness. Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. The roads are generally safe, but drive cautiously.
Dress in layers! Include warm clothing, a windproof jacket, hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning offers calm waters and soft light, while late afternoon provides dramatic shadows and golden hour hues. The reflections are often best when the water is still.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The pull-offs along the main highway offer iconic views of the lake with the volcanoes in the background. Experiment with different angles from the shore.
Visit during calm weather conditions, ideally in the early morning or late evening when there's less wind. Patience is key to waiting for the perfect reflection.
The lake itself, the iconic Parinacota and Pomerape volcanoes, vicuñas, alpacas, and the vast altiplano landscapes are prime subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Dress children in multiple layers to adapt to temperature changes. While the drive is long, the visual rewards are immense. The sheer scale of the landscape and the unique animals can create lasting memories. However, be prepared for potential fatigue or discomfort due to the altitude and adjust plans accordingly. Safety and comfort should be the top priorities.
🚗 Road Trippers & Self-Drivers
Acclimatization is paramount. Plan your route to include an overnight stay in Putre to adjust to the altitude before reaching the lake. Take frequent breaks at designated viewpoints to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Be aware of potential wildlife crossings, especially vicuñas and alpacas, and drive cautiously. The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the destination.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't forget to capture the unique Altiplano wildlife, such as vicuñas and flamingos. The changing colors of the desert landscape throughout the day also provide dynamic subjects. Be prepared for extreme temperature fluctuations and protect your gear from dust and cold. A sturdy tripod will be invaluable for low-light shots and capturing sharp images of the dramatic scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Altiplano: Getting to Lago Chungará
For those driving themselves, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in good condition and to be prepared for the significant altitude gain. A recommended strategy is to spend a night in Putre, a charming town situated at around 3,500 meters, before making the final ascent to Lago Chungará. This gradual acclimatization significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the unique flora, fauna, and geological formations.
It's also worth noting that Lago Chungará sits close to the border with Bolivia. The Ruta 11 continues across the border, making it a potential stop for those looking to explore both sides of this magnificent region. However, be aware of border crossing procedures if this is your intention.
The Majesty of Lago Chungará: A Natural Wonder
+1The lake's ecosystem is as remarkable as its setting. Despite the harsh conditions, it supports a surprising array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for herds of vicuñas, the elegant wild relatives of alpacas, grazing on the sparse vegetation. You might also spot alpacas, various species of flamingos wading in the shallows, and a rich diversity of birdlife. The presence of these animals in such an extreme environment is a testament to the resilience of nature.
Lago Chungará is managed by CONAF (Corporación Nacional Forestal) as part of the Parque Nacional Lauca. This designation ensures its protection and preservation. Visitors are reminded to be respectful of the environment, avoid littering, and follow any guidelines provided by park rangers. The experience of standing at the edge of this high-altitude lake, surrounded by such raw, natural beauty, is truly unforgettable.
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