The altiplano is a wide plateau in the middle of the Andes at an altitude of 3,500 - 4,500m, on Chile's northern frontier. It can reach 6,000m in the very high and isolated volcanoes forming part of this mountain range. It is the result of landfalls caused by intense volcanic activity. The landscape consists of flat, grassy land and it has a steppe-like climate, with rains in summer and average temperatures between 1Oº and -5ºC.
In this area there are unique climatic phenomena such as the 'Bolivian Winter' (during the summer) and the camanchaca (thick mist that provides humidity). The environment is determined by the lack of oxygen, so only more resistant flora and fauna survive extreme temperatures between -30'C and +30'C and altitudes of about 4,000m. And this is what the camellidae, flamingos and a number of migratory birds have done. Scattered throughout this vast territory there are marshes, lakes, salt flats and geysers protected by a series of national parks, one of which has been declared a World Biosphere Reserve by the UNESCO. Along with the attraction of the wildlife, the culture of the Altiplano is equally magical and is found in small villages that act as links with the greater cultures of the central Andes.
Attractions
Geology
The geological characteristics of the altiplano reflect the intense volcanic activity that has characterized the region since the late Cenozoic. Dozens of 6,000m volcanos tower over the rolling plains of consolidated ash, while vast salt flats like the Salar de Sudre contain concentrated minerals brought to the surface by rising steam heated by barely-subterranean magma.
Hotsprings
The volcanic forces that have shaped the landscape of the altiplano also give rise to one of its most pleasurable features: hotsprings. The baths at Polloquere, Puchuldiza, Chusmisa and Puritama are among the most dramatic hotsprings in all of Chile.
Anthropology/ ethnic
The Aymara Indians of the altiplano spend months on end away from home, herding llamas and alpacas across the vast volcanic plateau, congregating for periodic festivals in "ritual pueblos" such as Parinacota and Enquelga, many of which preserve stark 16th and 17th century colonial churches.
Activities
Overland
The finest overland tours in the altiplano trace an unforgettable route between Lauca and volcano Isluga national parks, or even connect with the colorful city of La Paz, Bolivia.
Observation of flora and fauna
The flora and fauna of the altiplano ecosystem is defined by its ability to resistthe environmental challenges posed by extreme elevation. Here you find such floral anomalies as queñoa, the world's highest growing tree, and llareta, a dense, lime-green colonial organism. Noteworthy fauna include four species of camelids (llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos) and a vast variety of birdlife, including ñandus (South American ostrich), giant coots, Andean geese and three species of flamingos. The highlight area for birdwatchers is Chungará lake, the centerpiece of Lauca National Park. Lauca and the parks to the south are the best place to spot vicuñas, which have rebounded from near extinction to a present population of over 20,000 individuals.
Mountaineering
The non-technical volcanos of the Chilean altiplano provide an ideal opportunities for the novice or experienced climber to break the 6000 m mark and take in some of world's most expansive views 6,330m Parinacota volcano is the most commonly targeted peak in the altiplano region.
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