The Chilean adventure begins with an arid and vast desertland. Silent scenery that offers us, however, nature full of life and mystery. The northern desert invites us to discover its four boundaries, four different worlds regarding history, geography and inhabitants: The shores of the Pacific Ocean, with temperate seas, splendid beaches and the historical wealth of its legendary sea ports. The Tamarugal Pampa, intermediate plateau with enormous salt lakes and amazing forests in the midst of the desert. The mountain ravines dotted with oases, Andean settlements and cultivated fields of pre-historic origins. And, over 3,500 meters above sea level, the high tableland of the Altiplano, crowned by some of the highest volcanoes in the world and inhabited by Aymara shepherds that wander through the beautiful National Parks with their flocks: lakes, salt deposits and native species of birds and South American specimens of cameloids. The far north is the only part of the country in which there is a large section of the Andean (plateau). Shallow lakes of mostly saline waters that are home to a number of bird species, including the Chilean flamingo. The edges of the desert in some sections have subterranean aquifers that have permitted the development of forests made up mainly of tamarugos, spiny trees native to the area that grow to a height of about twenty-five meters. National Parks in Lauca, Surire and Isluga were declared Biosphere World Reserves, to protect the rich ecosystems of flora and fauna in the Andean Altiplano. They provide a breathtaking and solitary scenery, with volcanoes, salt deposits and lakes that have scarcely been explored by man, inviting adventure.
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
ARICA - CODPA
After your arrival at Arica Airport you will be met by your guides (Aymara and bilingual guide) and transferred to the village of Codpa (aprox. 70 km). The drive to Codpa (mainly on secondary roads) itself is part of the thrill. Codpa is a small oasis village nested in a narrow valley hemmed in by sheer rock walls (1.800 mts). The fertile Codpa valley is famous for it's fruit trees and the local "Pintatani Wine". Upon arrival you will be welcomed by the locals and have the opportunity to taste local fruits and wine. After a hearty country-style barbeque our exploration of the valley commences. Visits include the small village of Guañacagua - with it's remarkable stone church (Andean baroque architecture) datetd back to the 16th century, Chitita, a tiny stone village located astride the old trail connecting Codpa to Putre and Belén. In Ofrajita the petroglyphs of the ancient Tiwanako culture (300 - 1.100) can be observed. Return to Codpa. During the candle light dinner we will listen to the narration of the myth and fables of the Aymara Indians and learn abot their "cosmovision" of the world. Overnight will be at Hostería Codpa.
(L) (D)
Day 2:
CODPA - BELEN - PUTRE
After breakfast our trip will continue towards the "Altiplano" (Andean Highland Plateau), visiting the villages of Timar and the now deserted Tignamar Viejo. From Tignamar Viejo, we go for a hike (aprox 45 min.) to Tignamar Nuevo. From Tignamar Nuevo we drive to Belén (popoulation: 148, 3.300 mts), the only altiplano village founded by the Spaniards, chosen for its good climate and its location astride the Arica - Potosi-Trail. Locals will prepare a typical lunch - "Guatia" for you. While lunch is being prepared, we will visit the small village and its oregano, corn and alfalfa fields, cultivated in the traditional terraces. After lunch our trip continues to Zapahuira, once an important trading post on the "Inca Trail". Today's last leg of the trip will be the drive to Putre - the capital of the Parinacota Province. Putre located at 3.500 mts above sealevel and dating from pre-Hispanic times. Dinner with folcloric music. After dinner we will met the "Yatiri" and realize the "Challa" (cermony) to honor "Pacha Mama" and "Tata Sol" - Mother Earth and Father Sun - and pray for harmony between mankind and nature. Overnight at Hostería Putre.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 3:
PUTRE - PARINACOTA - LAGO CHUNGARA - ARICA
Today's highlight will be a visit to the superb Lauca National Park (declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO). The combined beauty of unspoiled nature, lots of wildlife, high altitude lakes, snow capped volcanoes and picturesque ceremonial villages makes this area one of Chile's most spectacular setting. We will visit the beautiful village of Parinacota , wich today is a national monument. The village dates from pre-Conquest times and was located on the herding trail from Arica to Potosi (silver mines). The houses are built of stone using clay as mortar and have thatched roofs. The church of the village with ist massive bell tower is one of the most beautiful in the highlands. On our way to Lago Chungara, the worlds highest lake, we will stop for a moment to praise to the "Gods of the mountain peaks". Chungará Lake at 4.500 mts above sea level, this emerald green lake is really breathtaking, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Parinacota, Sajama, Quisiquisini, Quimsachata and the smoking Guallatiri volcano. The lake is home to a diverse birdlife. Here the Chilean Flamingo can be spotted. We will then travel on to the authentic community of Chucuyo. This small Aymara community is dedicated to Lama and Alpaca breeding. Feel free to join the local men and women to participate the weaving of the fine wool from these animals. The locals will invite us to participate in the brief "Suma Surti" (Good Luck) ceremony, asking the gods of the mountain for a fulfilling life. On our way back to Arica we will have picnic lunch. Our way back to Arica leads through the Valley of Lluta. Overnight will be at the Oceanside Hotel Arica.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 4:
ARICA - SAN MIGUEL DE AZAPA - ARICA
After breakfast we drive to the fertile valley of Azapa. The predominant plant species are olive trees, producing the famed Azapa Olives. There are also large banana and palm plantations. In San Miguel de Azapa we will visit the famous archaeological museum. The museum contains a beautiful collection of fine Andean and coastal woven fabrics, baskets and pottery, Chinchorro mummies, the world's oldest , mummified using a peculiar sand technique. Transfer to Arica Airport for your connecting flight.
(B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
DAILY DEPARTURES ALL YEAR ROUND! BEST TRAVEL TIME MARCH TO DECEMBER.
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Chile
History Whiz
Archeology/History
Cultural Journey
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