Parc national de Lauca
Lauca National Park is located in the Arica and Parinacota Region, in the Norte Grande area of Chile. This park is known for its breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, expansive plains, and serene lakes. It is home to diverse wildlife, such as vicuñas, flamingos, and Andean foxes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, spot unique bird species, and experience the tranquility of the Andean wilderness. Lauca National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature and encounter rare wildlife species.
Emplacement et comment s'y rendre
Lauca National Park is situated in the Andean highlands of Northern Chile, approximately 160 km east of Arica. The park spans the border with Bolivia and encompasses a striking landscape of volcanoes, lakes, and altiplano wildlife. There is no precise street address, but the main access points are along the Ruta 11-CH highway, which connects Arica to Bolivia.
- By Car: The most flexible option is to rent a car in Arica and drive east on Ruta 11-CH, a well-maintained road that takes about 2.5 hours. Note that altitude sickness can be a concern as elevations exceed 4,500 meters.
- By Tour: Many visitors opt for guided tours from Arica, which include transportation and stops at key sites like Lake Chungará and Parinacota Village.
- Public Transport: Limited bus services run from Arica to Putre, the nearest town to the park, but onward travel into the park requires private arrangements.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is a natural reserve. However, certain areas or visitor centers may have restricted hours.
- Entrance Fee: Free of charge. Some guided tours or specific activities may have costs.
- Visitor Centers: The CONAF (Chilean National Forestry Corporation) office in Putre provides maps and information; hours are typically Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (April–November) offers clear skies and mild daytime temperatures, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Early mornings are best for photography, with soft light illuminating the volcanoes and lakes. The wet season (December–March) brings occasional rain but lush landscapes.
Durée de la visite
A day trip from Arica is possible, but staying overnight in Putre or camping in the park allows for a fuller experience. Plan for at least 4–6 hours to explore key sites like Lake Chungará and the Parinacota wetlands.
Activités
- Wildlife Watching: Spot vicuñas, flamingos, and Andean foxes, particularly around the bofedales (wetlands).
- Hiking: Trails range from short walks to challenging treks, such as the route to Las Cuevas hot springs.
- Cultural Visits: The colonial village of Parinacota, with its adobe church, offers insight into Aymara culture.
- Photography: The park’s dramatic scenery—volcanoes, lakes, and starry skies—is a photographer’s dream.
Installations
- Restrooms: Limited facilities; available at CONAF stations or in Putre.
- Food & Drink: No cafes within the park. Bring water and snacks; meals can be found in Putre.
- Parking: Available at key viewpoints and trailheads.
- Accessibility: The terrain is rugged, with few paved paths. Not suitable for wheelchairs.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Altitude Precautions: Acclimate in Putre (3,500m) before ascending further. Carry water and coca tea for altitude symptoms.
- Clothing: Layers are essential—cold mornings, warm afternoons, and freezing nights. Windproof jackets and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) are recommended.
- Essentials: Sunglasses, sturdy hiking shoes, camera, and binoculars for wildlife.
Règles et règlements
- Wildlife: Do not feed or disturb animals.
- Camping: Permitted in designated areas only; no open fires.
- Litter: Carry out all trash; the park has no disposal facilities.
- Drones: Use may require prior authorization.
Informations sur le contact
- CONAF Arica: +56 58 220 0161 (for park inquiries).
- Tourist Office in Putre: Limited hours; check locally for updates.