Salar Aguas Calientes I

Located at an elevation of 4,221 meters, this salt pan spans 26 square kilometers within the Central Andean dry puna ecoregion of northern Chile.

The Chilean government designated this location as a protected Ramsar Wetland in 2009 to preserve its ecological characteristics and natural water systems.

The salt pan serves as a natural sanctuary for three flamingo species: Chilean, Andean, and James's, which gather in the mineral-rich waters.

Visitors need high-altitude preparation, sufficient water supplies, and reliable transportation when accessing this remote location through Ruta 27.

The salt pan maintains unfrozen water throughout the year due to the continuous flow from Rio Aguas Calientes, despite the extreme temperatures.

Location: Antofagasta Region

Elevation above the sea: 4,221 m

GPS coordinates: -23.11667,-67.41667

Latest update: March 3, 2025 01:15