5-day Parinacota and Taapacá Trip

This 5-day adventure from Putre invites you to explore the stunning highland region of northern Chile, where the majestic Parinacota and Taapacá volcanoes await your discovery. An experience that promises to capture your imagination.

5-Day Journey to the Parinacota and Taapacá Volcanoes

Day 1

Your journey kicks off with an exciting start! At the prearranged time, our guide will collect you from your accommodation in Putre and transport you to the Taapacá volcano viewpoint, a colossal Andean peak towering at 19,225 feet (5,860 meters). From this vantage point, you'll be greeted by breathtaking altiplano landscapes stretching towards the borders of Chile, Bolivia, and Peru.

The adventure continues as we make our way to the quaint village of Colpita, before heading towards the renowned colorful mountains of Suriplaza. Depending on your inclination, you may choose to enjoy your surroundings from the base or embark on a 3-stage trekking route that ascends to an altitude of 17,388 feet (5,300 meters).

We'll conclude the day in a cozy rural lodging in Parinacota.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast in Parinacota, we dedicate the morning to a fulfilling trekking route that encompasses the Cotacotani Lagoons and Chungará Lake, situated within the stunning confines of Lauca National Park, renowned for its remarkable natural beauty.

We’ll also make a stop by the Chiriguaya hot springs before proceeding to a lovely rural house in Chimvatambo. Here, you’ll gain insight into the traditional technique of "charqui" (meat dehydration), enjoy a warm dinner, and spend the night.

Day 3

Your adventure continues as we visit the vicuña reserve, where these graceful Andean animals roam free. Our route will take us along the scenic paths of Chinchillani hill, the sparkling Salar Salt Flats, and the expansive Chilcaya plain.

At the far end of the salt flats, you’ll discover the inviting Polloquere hot springs, perfect for a rejuvenating dip. Following this refreshing stop, we’ll explore the charming villages of Isluga and Cariquima, where you’ll enjoy dinner and accommodations for the night.

Day 4

Day four commences with a visit to the impressive Coipasa Salt Flats, located at the Chile-Bolivia border. This extraordinary landscape is also noted for its towering cacti, which are a sight to behold.

Afterward, we return to Cariquima to explore its historic church and the Community Museum. Our journey then continues towards Tarapacá, where you’ll admire the San Lorenzo sanctuary and view the Atacama Giant, recognized as the largest geoglyph in Latin America.

Lunch will be served in the town of Huara, before concluding the day at a welcoming rural lodge in Nama.

Day 5

On the final day of your expedition, we’ll begin with a visit to the stunning Red Lagoon and the enchanting Rainbow waterfall, both located in the outskirts of Nama.

We’ll then return to the Nama and Camiña areas for lunch before wrapping up our tour and heading back to your hotel in Putre in the late afternoon.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodations consist of comfortable shared rooms in rural houses, where both dinner and breakfast are included. Please note that lodging options may vary based on availability or prevailing weather conditions.

Lunches are also part of the package and will consist of a delightful picnic meal during one of our midday breaks throughout the tours.

This tour features 4 nights of accommodation in the following locations:

• Parinacota: Uta Kala Hostel
• Chivatambo: Lauca Cruzani Inn
• Cariquima: Tata Inti Hostel or Inka Thaki Hostel
• Nama: Camiña Rural House