Laguna Lejia + Volcanoes Route｜Chile

An expedition through the highlands where the landscape merges with volcanic activity, far from the busiest tourist routes in San Pedro de Atacama. We'll begin our tour by heading to the village of Toconao, with its ancestral architecture in volcanic stone, and then enter the territory of Talabre, one of the oldest and most authentic highland settlements in the area.
From the Talabre Viejo vantage point, you'll have privileged views of the imposing Láscar Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Chile, whose crater emits fumaroles that are visible on clear days. We will continue to the Maar Cerro Overo, a strange and little-known volcanic crater formed by ancient phreatomagmatic eruptions.
We'll then visit the Salar de Aguas Calientes II, a salt landscape of great scenic beauty located inside the Caldera de la Pacana, one of the largest volcanic calderas on the planet. It was formed millions of years ago by the collapse of an ancient and massive volcanic system that shaped much of the terrain of this highland region.
The highlight of the sightseeing tour is Laguna Lejía, a mirror of turquoise water surrounded by volcanoes, considered a site of high natural and cultural value for the Atacameño people. There, we'll enjoy some free time to contemplate the landscape, observe possible highland fauna, and photograph the surroundings in an atmosphere of calm and isolation that's unique in the world's driest desert.
This route combines world-class volcanic geology, ancient Atacameño culture, and protected nature on a little-explored itinerary that is ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience in the Chilean highlands, away from the crowds.