Private Atacama Day Tour: Nevado Tres Cruces & Laguna Verde

Summary

Guided exploration of Chile’s high-altitude wonders

You’ll travel deep into Chile’s Atacama wilds with a local guide—spotting flamingos at Laguna Santa Rosa, soaking in surreal mountain views, and relaxing by turquoise thermal waters far from any crowds.

What’s the experience like?

We set off before sunrise, the air in Copiapó still cool and a little dusty, with our guide already handing out coca tea for the drive. The road out to Nevado Tres Cruces National Park is long and mostly empty—just us, the van, and that endless sweep of desert. As we climbed higher, the landscape shifted from coppery scrub to wide salt flats that shimmered under the morning sun. Our first stop was a turquoise pool—Aguas Salinas—where the wind carried this faint mineral tang and everything felt impossibly quiet except for our footsteps crunching on salt crystals.

By late morning, we reached Laguna Santa Rosa. It sits at almost 3,850 meters, so you feel every breath up there. The lake was glassy and pale blue, ringed by tufts of yellow grass. We spotted a cluster of flamingos wading near the shore—honestly, I’d never seen them so close outside of a zoo. Our guide explained how these birds survive at such altitude; apparently, they feed on tiny crustaceans that thrive in these salty waters. Behind them loomed Nevado Tres Cruces itself—snow-dusted even in summer—and further off, Ojos del Salado volcano rising like something out of a postcard. Lunch was simple but perfect: sandwiches and fresh fruit eaten picnic-style with nothing but silence and wind for company. I remember the sun felt stronger than expected up here; I was glad I’d packed extra sunscreen.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Nevado Tres Cruces Park

• Visit Aguas Salinas Turquesas
• See Laguna Altiplánica and flamingos

Top questions

Is this Nevado Tres Cruces tour suitable if I’m not used to high altitudes?

The tour reaches over 3,800 meters above sea level, so you might feel the effects if you’re not used to it. The pace is gentle though, and your guide will check in often. If you have heart or respiratory issues, it’s best to consult your doctor first.

What should I bring for a day trip to Nevado Tres Cruces National Park?

I’d recommend layers (it gets chilly early on), sunglasses, sunscreen (the sun is strong up there), sturdy shoes for walking around the lagoons—and don’t forget your camera! Water and snacks are provided.

Will we see wildlife during this Atacama park tour?

Yes! We saw flamingos at Laguna Santa Rosa and spotted some wild vicuñas along the way. Your guide knows where to look for local animals without disturbing them.

What’s included

You’ll get private transportation all day (no crowded buses), bottled water whenever you need it, entry tickets covered for all park sites, plus a light lunch with sandwiches, fruit, cookies, and snacks—all sorted for you so you can just enjoy the views.