Las Vicuñas National Reserve wilderness guide
National Reserve · Arica y Parinacota

Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Las Vicuñas National Reserve is a protected area in the Chilean Andes, offering stunning landscapes and an array of wildlife, including its namesake, the vicuña.

National Reserve500,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Reserve

Total Wilderness Area

500,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Las Vicuñas National Reserve is a protected area in the Chilean Andes, offering stunning landscapes and an array of wildlife, including its namesake, the vicuña.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Chilean Andes, Las Vicuñas National Reserve spans across the Arica y Parinacota region. It is part of the Lauca Biosphere Reserve and plays a crucial role in the conservation of the vicuña, a small South American camelid. Characterized by its high-altitude geography, the reserve features sweeping altiplanic landscapes, with a mixture of wetlands, mountains, and rock formations. The reserve is home to various species, including flamingos, condors, and the rare Andean cat, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The cultural heritage of the Aymara people is also significant in this region, and visitors can encounter evidence of ancient civilizations through archaeological sites scattered across the reserve. Outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife observation are popular, and the reserve's remote location offers a peaceful retreat into nature.

Field Guide · National Reserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Suriplaza, a high-altitude plateau offering panoramic views of the surrounding Andes.✦ Vicuña herds grazing freely across the altiplano.✦ The Chungara Volcano, providing a stunning backdrop for photographs.✦ The Sajama Lines, ancient geoglyphs created by indigenous cultures.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Las Vicuñas National Reserve
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Las Vicuñas National Reserve
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Las Vicuñas National Reserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Las Vicuñas National Reserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Las Vicuñas National Reserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits are required for some activities; general access is free.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Vicuña Campground

Located within the reserve, providing basic facilities and close access to wildlife viewing areas.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Las Vicuñas National Reserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Putre, Arica y Parinacota
⌖ 5.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Putre, Arica y Parinacota

Putre is an ideal base for adventures in the Chilean Altiplano, offering hiking, cultural tours, and wildlife encounters in stunning Andean landscapes.

April to November
Explore Town
Putre, Chile
⌖ 5.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Putre, Chile

Putre is a secluded Andean town in Chile that offers great access to hiking, indigenous culture, and stunning high-altitude desert environments. Ideal for true adventurers.

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)
Explore Town
Puerto Williams, Chile
⌖ 53.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Puerto Williams, Chile

Puerto Williams is the gateway to wild, remote adventures on Navarino Island. Explore rugged hiking trails, paddle pristine fjords, and experience the stunning subantarctic wilderness far from tourist crowds.

December to March
Explore Town