Lauca, Biosphere reserve in Arica y Parinacota Region, Chile

Lauca is a UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Puna biogeographic region of northern Chile, made up of Lauca National Park, Las Vicuñas National Reserve and Salar de Surire Natural Monument. Its Altiplano plateau, cut by deep gorges with lava or salt outcrops, holds freshwater and salt lakes, marshes, lagoons and mountain streams between 3,400 and 6,410 metres above sea level.

Lauca became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981, bringing together Lauca National Park, Las Vicuñas National Reserve and Salar de Surire Natural Monument under one framework. The reserve lies in the Puna biogeographic region of Putre province, Arica y Parinacota Region, and is managed by CONAF, Chile's national forestry corporation.

About 200 Aymara elders live within the reserve, raising llamas and alpacas for their own use and for sale. Their settlements and grazing herds are part of the highland landscape the reserve protects.

The best time to visit is between May and September when weather is most stable and roads remain passable. Visitors should prepare for high altitude, freezing nights, strong sun exposure, and plan for several hours of driving from the coast.

Flamingos and guanacos roam regularly across the lakes and plateaus, allowing visitors to watch these wild animals in their natural habitat. The park offers one of the best opportunities in the region to see high-altitude wildlife up close.