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Lagoon and birdwatching · San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta
Laguna Chaxa
A shallow lagoon in the middle of the Salar de Atacama, in the Soncor sector of the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos, where three species of flamingo usually feed.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Laguna Chaxa
Laguna Chaxa is a shallow, salty lagoon in the middle of the Salar de Atacama, about 7 km from Toconao and roughly 50 km from San Pedro de Atacama. It lies in the Soncor sector of the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos and is one of Chile's most popular spots for watching flamingos.
Three species are commonly seen there: the Chilean flamingo, the parina grande (Andean flamingo) and the parina chica (James's flamingo). They feed on small crustaceans and microorganisms that live in the very salty water. The presence of the birds varies with the season and water level, so there is no way to know how many will be in the lagoon.
A marked trail of about 400 metres runs around the shore, passing over salt crusts that form the salar floor. Around it, the view opens to the Andean volcanoes, such as Licancabur and Láscar.
At the entrance there is a visitor center with information about the reserve. Other common birds include the gaivota-andina and small waders.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes to an hour on the trail.
Best time
Early morning and late afternoon have softer light and are usually the times of greatest bird activity. At midday the sun's reflection on the salt is strong: wear sunglasses.
How to get there
From San Pedro, follow Ruta 23 to Toconao and then the B-373 road to the Soncor sector, a total of about an hour by car. Many agencies include the lagoon on the tour to the Lagunas Altiplánicas.
Tip
Speak quietly and stay on the trail, because the birds move away at the sound of noise. Binoculars or a zoom lens help a lot. On the return, it's worth stopping in Toconao to see the stone bell tower beside the village church.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Laguna Chaxa
Are there always flamingos at Laguna Chaxa?
It's unpredictable. flamingo presence varies with the season and water level; on many days there are birds, on others few.
Which flamingos appear at Laguna Chaxa?
The three species recorded are the Chilean flamingo, the Andean flamingo (parina grande) and the James's/puna flamingo (parina chica).
Is Laguna Chaxa far from San Pedro?
It's about 50 km, a one-hour drive, passing through Toconao.