Magic of the Altiplano Tour
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DAY 1: ARICA & AZAPA VALLEY - Group
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you will have time to explore Arica and its landmark buildings such as the San Marcos Church and the House of Arts that were built by the famous French architect Eiffel. As you walk through Colon Square and observe the many shops you will notice the quaint lifestyle of the town. Afterwards you will visit some of the more important historical sites of interest including the steep hill of El Morro which played a very important role in the Pacific War. From there you will visit the Azapa Valley and the Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum. The museum holds a collection of sand-preserved mummies and pre-Incan relics dating back to 10,000 BC. Private - Today we will start our journey through one of the least explored and yet one of the most beautiful areas of northern Chile. This region holds a rich history and is considered to be a point of connection to many ancient cultures such as the Incas and the fascinating Chinchorro people. In the colourful Azapa Valley, we will visit the archaeological museum, renowned for its 7,600-year-old mummies, remnants of the ancient Chinchorro culture. In addition to this, this valley is known for its rich and exotic fruits that are cultivated throughout the year. After lunch we will drive south to the town and valley of Codpa. This small oasis located at 1,855 m /6,078 ft above sea level is characteristic of the villages in the Andean highlands: enriched with landscapes, traditions and embellished with beautiful churches. Overnight in Codpa. (L, D) DAY 2: ARICA - PUTRE - Group Today you will leave Arica and take the road to the highland village of Putre. On your way, you will enter the Lluta Valley where you will be able to observe the many geoglyphs that mark the old Inca trail from the coast to the highland. For an up-close observation you will stop in the old town of Rosario. From there you will continue to Poconchile where you will visit the community’s large cemetery and the Church of San Gerónimo that was built in 1580. Afterwards you will travel the Cardones Canyon (where large cacti can be viewed scattered across the terrain) and arrive at Fort Pukara de Copaquilla. Here you will have time to stretch your legs as you walk to the small village of Socoroma; home to the Aymara natives. After a brief visit you will continue heading to your final destination; Putre located 3,500 m / 11,483 ft above sea level and the capital Parinacota Province. Once you arrive, you will have time to adjust to the high altitude as you explore this colonial town and observe traditional houses adorned with stone carved portals and window frames dating back from the 17th century. Just outside the village an amazing view of the Putre Valley can be enjoyed. A picnic-lunch will be provided on the way and you will have dinner at a local restaurant. (B, BL, D) Private - After breakfast we will head to the Andean villages of Timar, Tignamar and Saxamar. On the way, we will visit the petroglyphs of Ofragía which are the extraordinary evidence of the presence of human beings in the region dating back to more than 10.000 years ago. We will also visit the hot springs of Chitune, perfect for a relaxing bath. After our initial visits and lunch we will continue to the villages of Belen, Chaquipiña, Zapahuira and then to our final destination: Putre. The latter is located at 3.600 m/ 11.811 feet above sea level at the base of the beautiful Tarapacá volcano. We will have the rest of the day at leisure to explore this serene village by ourselves. Overnight in Putre (B, BL) DAY 3: PUTRE - LAUCA NATIONAL PARK - ARICA - Group In the morning you will depart to discover the fascinating beauty of the Lauca National Park and its spectacular scenery of exotic plants and wildlife. Here you will be able to observe a variety of species including vicuñas, alpacas, rheas, Andean flamingos and many others – this is also a birdwatcher paradise. While exploring the park you will arrive at the town of Parinacota located at 4,392 m / 14,409 ft. above sea level and boasting a beautiful church dating back to the XVII century. After a short visit you will continue on to the highest lake in the world; the Chungará Lake. Here you will enjoy a nice walk and eat your box lunch on the shores of the waterfront. (B, BL) Private - COTACOTANI – PARINACOTA In the morning we will head towards Lauca National Park, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1981. Here we can participate in an Aymara ceremony, remembering those who have passed through this sacred place asking for strength for the future. Afterwards, we will walk from the Cotacotani lagoons to Parinacota, where we will arrive around lunchtime. This unique village, located at 4,392 m / 14,409 ft above sea level is home to 150 inhabitants and a picturesque church (declared a National Monument in 1979) dating back to the 17th century. After this hike we will continue to the highest altitude lake in the world: Lake Chungará. Here we will enjoy our lunch while admiring the imposing Payachatas volcanoes (Parinacota and Pomerape). In addition to the incredible scenery, Lake Chungará is also home to a unique fauna and ecosystem with more than 130 native species. Our last stop will be at the local Chucuyo market, where we will have the opportunity to participate in the creation of typical Andean clothing. Overnight in Putre (B, BL) DAY 4: ARICA Your transfer will take you to the airport to board the connecting flight. (B) |
2023-2024 prices per person in US$ :
June 23 till September 30, 2023
October 1 2023 till April 30 2024
Included:
- overnights with breakfast - Meals according itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner, LB=Lunch Box). - Regular or private transfers and excursions with English speaking guide. - Entrance fees. - single supplement also applies for 1 person Hotels used in group program: Casa Beltran & Qantati Hotels used in private program: Aruma Codpa & Qantati 
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