Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques: Andean Highland Wonders
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Chilean Andes at Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques, a high-altitude oasis of vibrant blue waters and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Located high in the Andes Mountains near San Pedro de Atacama, the Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons offer a breathtaking spectacle of deep blue waters set against a backdrop of volcanoes and stark desert landscapes. These altiplanic lagoons are part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve and provide a habitat for diverse wildlife.
A brief summary to Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques
- San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, CL
Local tips
- Acclimatize to the high altitude in San Pedro de Atacama before visiting the lagoons to avoid altitude sickness.
- Bring warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can be very cold and the wind can be strong.
- Book your entrance tickets in advance through Socaire Chile to ensure entry.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Piedras Rojas and Salar de Talar for a full-day excursion.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no facilities available at the lagoons.
Getting There
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Driving
From San Pedro de Atacama, drive approximately 120 km south on Route 23 towards Toconao. Continue past Toconao and Socaire, following signs for Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos. The turnoff to Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques will be clearly marked. Note that the road is partly unpaved, so drive carefully. Entrance fee is CLP$10,000 for adults and CLP$8,000 for children. Tickets must be booked in advance online.
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Tour
Many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama offer full-day tours to Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques, often combined with visits to Piedras Rojas and other attractions. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. Prices vary, but expect to pay around CLP$40,000-60,000 per person, excluding the entrance fee to the lagoons (CLP$10,000 per person). Check that the tour operator has pre-booked tickets. Pick-up from your accommodation in San Pedro is usually included.
Discover more about Lagunas Miscanti y Miñiques
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Miscanti Lake
3.1 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Miscanti Lake, a serene high-altitude gem in the Atacama Desert, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Volcán Miñiques
9.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Volcán Miñiques, a majestic volcano in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
Casas Valle de la Luna
98.5 km
Experience tranquility near San Pedro de Atacama with comfortable, regionally-inspired houses and easy access to the Valley of the Moon.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mirador Laguna Miñiques
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mirador Laguna Miñiques, a stunning viewpoint in the Atacama Desert, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Laguna Miñiques
3.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Laguna Miñiques, a serene lake in the Andes, offering stunning landscapes and unique wildlife experiences in San Pedro de Atacama.
Salar de Atacama
53.5 km
Experience the stunning Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile, where breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife await every traveler.
Laguna Chaxa
59.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Chaxa in San Pedro de Atacama, a breathtaking lake surrounded by unique salt flats and vibrant wildlife.
Laguna Chaxa Park
63.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Laguna Chaxa Park in the Atacama Desert, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos
64.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of Los Flamencos National Reserve in Chile's breathtaking Altiplano region.
Toconao
64.5 km
Experience the unique charm of Toconao, a traditional village in the Atacama Desert, rich in culture and stunning landscapes.
Toconao Bell tower
64.7 km
Discover the captivating Toconao Bell Tower, a stunning architectural gem in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, surrounded by rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Plaza de Toconao
64.7 km
Explore the serene Plaza de Toconao, a cultural gem in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Mirador Toconao
64.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and the enchanting beauty of the Atacama Desert at Mirador Toconao, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Atacama Large Millimeter Array - ALMA Radio Telescope
79.6 km
Discover the universe like never before at the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, a premier observatory in the breathtaking Atacama Desert.
Llano de Chajnantor Observatory
79.6 km
Experience the wonders of the universe at the Llano de Chajnantor Observatory in the breathtaking Atacama Desert, one of the world's premier stargazing locations.
Ojos del Salar
80.6 km
Explore the stunning Ojos del Salar in San Pedro de Atacama, where crystal-clear lagoons meet breathtaking desert landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Laguna Tebinquiche
81.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Tebinquiche, a stunning lake in the Atacama Desert, Chile, renowned for its vibrant colors and serene landscapes.
Monjes de La Pacana
81.9 km
Discover the stunning geological wonders of Monjes de La Pacana in San Pedro de Atacama, an unforgettable experience in Chile's breathtaking desert landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Viña Santa Romina
64.3 km
Experience the beauty and flavor of Viña Santa Romina, a serene vineyard in San Pedro de Atacama, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking landscapes.
El Telar
64.7 km
Discover the essence of San Pedro de Atacama with unique handicrafts and local wines at El Telar, a charming souvenir store.
Atelier de Joyas Daniela León
98.7 km
Explore Atelier de Joyas Daniela León for unique handcrafted jewelry that reflects the rich culture and beauty of San Pedro de Atacama.
Las Salinas,
99.3 km
Explore Las Salinas in San Pedro de Atacama for unique local crafts, souvenirs, and an authentic shopping experience in the heart of the desert.
Casa Solcor Boutique Bed & Breakfast
99.9 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Casa Solcor Boutique Bed & Breakfast in San Pedro de Atacama, your gateway to desert adventures.
