Upon arrival in Arica, pick up your rental vehicle at the airport and begin the drive to Putre. Along the way, discover the petroglyphs of the Lluta Valley, the village of Rosario, and the church of Poconchile, before reaching the Valley of the Cardones, famous for its majestic candelabra cacti.

A visit to the Pukará de Copaquilla, an ancient Andean fortress, is planned, including a short walk to explore the site and enjoy its panoramic views. The journey continues via Socoroma to Putre, located at an altitude of 3,500 metres, an ideal place to acclimatize to the altitude. This historic Andean village once served as a strategic passage for caravans connecting Potosí with Arica.
Overnight in Putre.

Suggested itinerary: A day dedicated to discovering the Salar de Surire salt flat.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Putre and head towards Salar de Surire (4,245 m), located 127 km to the southeast. The route crosses a protected area that preserves the wildlife and fragile ecosystem of the Andean highlands. Along the way, discover traditional Andean villages with stone houses and Aymara communities such as Ancuta, Guallatire, and Viluvio, all set against the backdrop of Guallatire Volcano and its impressive fumaroles.

Upon arrival at Salar de Surire, enjoy free time to explore this unique landscape. Three species of flamingos coexist here: James’s flamingo, the Andean flamingo, and the Chilean flamingo, creating a fascinating natural spectacle.

Return to Putre in the afternoon.

Overnight in Putre.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day visit to Lauca National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Rich in the characteristic flora and fauna of the Andean highlands, the park is home to vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. Pink flamingos and a wide variety of Andean bird species can be spotted around the small lagoons; with a little luck, you may also catch sight of rheas and condors.

The journey continues to Parinacota, a designated National Monument, where a traditional Andean church stands out for its detached bell tower, adobe and stone walls, and thatched roof. The route then leads to Lake Chungará, one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of 4,500 metres and surrounded by the twin volcanoes Parinacota (6,330 m) and Pomerape (6,240 m).

Return to Arica at the end of the day, with the option of stopping at the Jurasi Hot Springs along the way.

Overnight in Arica.