Laguna Chaxa: A Flamingo Oasis in the Atacama Desert
Witness elegant flamingos in their natural habitat amidst the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert at Laguna Chaxa.
Laguna Chaxa, located within the Los Flamencos National Reserve, is a stunning salt lagoon in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Chile. It's renowned as one of the most accessible flamingo breeding sites in the region, offering visitors a chance to witness these elegant birds in their natural habitat against a backdrop of surreal desert landscapes.
A brief summary to Laguna Chaxa Park
- San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring a good camera with a zoom lens to capture the flamingos and stunning scenery.
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions and to see the birds most active.
- Stay hydrated due to the high altitude and arid climate.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven, salty surfaces.
Getting There
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Driving
From San Pedro de Atacama, drive approximately 55 km south on Route 23 towards Toconao. After passing Toconao, watch for signs to Salar de Atacama and Laguna Chaxa. Turn right onto Route B-355 and continue for about 11.5 km, then turn right again onto Route B-373. Drive for another 10 km to reach the parking area. The drive takes around 50 minutes to 1.5 hours. Parking is available at the entrance. There are no tolls on this route. Car rentals are available in San Pedro de Atacama.
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Public Transport
From San Pedro de Atacama, walk to the main bus terminal on the corner of Caracoles and Licancabur streets. Look for buses heading towards Toconao or Salar de Atacama. Inform the driver you're going to Laguna Chaxa. The bus will drop you off at the park entrance. The bus journey takes 1 to 1.5 hours. From the drop-off point, you will need to walk a short distance to the lagoon. Bus fare is approximately $3 USD. Alternatively, take a colectivo (shared taxi) from San Pedro de Atacama, found near the bus terminal, indicating Laguna Chaxa or Salar de Atacama. This takes 30-45 minutes.
Discover more about Laguna Chaxa Park
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