Laguna Chaxa, in the Los Flamencos reserve on the Salar de Atacama, is an easy and reliable place to see Andean, Chilean and James's flamingos feeding on a shimmering salt flat. Boardwalks cross the crust to viewpoints where the birds stand against the volcanoes of the high Andes, superb at sunrise and sunset. Sightings hold up year-round, an easy add-on to a stay in San Pedro de Atacama.
Laguna Chaxa, in the Los Flamencos reserve on the Salar de Atacama, is an easy and reliable place to see Andean, Chilean and James's flamingos feeding on a shimmering salt flat. Boardwalks cross the crust to viewpoints where the birds stand against the volcanoes of the high Andes, superb at sunrise and sunset. Sightings hold up year-round, an easy add-on to a stay in San Pedro de Atacama.
Up to 78% sighting chance in Salar de Atacama (Laguna Chaxa), Chile. Best months: January, February, November.
Andean, Chilean and James's flamingos all feed on the Salar de Atacama, sometimes all three at once.
Laguna Chaxa is an easy day or half-day trip from San Pedro de Atacama, with boardwalks and a small reserve entry.
Sunrise and sunset, when the birds glow against the salt flat and the Andes; midday is harsh and hot.
