Birding the Atacama Desert and Altiplano
fromThe Atacama Desert is the driest place in the world, however, it holds a surprising array of life. Many species have adapted to survive in this harsh environment, showing much ingenuity. Birding the Atacama Desert and Altiplano takes us to the heart of the desert surrounding San Pedro de Atacama. These areas are world famous for its striking otherworldly landscapes, massive snowcapped volcanoes dotting the horizon, colorful lagoons and mesmerizing salt pans. But not only is the scenery fantastic, the bird species that have made this place home are equally fascinating.
Here we’ll have the chance to see all high elevation Flamingos (Chilean, Andean and Puna), Horned Coots, Puna Plover, highly localized species like Red-backed Sierra-Finch and Tamarugo Conebill, among many other desert and high elevation specialists.
NEXT DATES
11th Oct – 14th Oct 2022
Birding the Atacama Desert and Altiplano can easily be combined with our other tours in Northern Chile, around Santiago, or Patagonia.
Private trips can be organized upon request
Request price and itinerary using our Contact Form
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Activity Level Birding
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ITINERARY SUMMARY:
Day 1: Arrival to Santiago
Day 2: Miscanti & Miñiques lagoons and Salar de Atacama
Day 3: Geysers and Andean wetlands
Day 4: Desert birding and return to Santiago
Highlights
- Chilean, Andean and Puna Flamingos
- Breathtaking high-altitude Altiplano landscapes
- Highly localized species: Horned Coot, Red-backed Sierra-Finch, Tamarugo Conebill.
Pace
- Relaxed to moderate pace. Days at higher elevation can be a bit more tiering, but good hydration and early nights will help to feel fit.
Ease of Birding
- Most species are easy to see. Aquatic species are quiet reliable; birding in the desert and altiplano is also quiet reliable, although possibility of windy condition may decrease activity. Tinamous and Seedsnipes are low density, so more effort is sometimes required to see them.
- Accommodation
- Transport: SUV for 1-3 people, minivan for 4-6 people
- Internal flights
- English speaking guide with birding equipment
- Snacks (fruit, nuts, cereal bars, water)
- All meals
- Park entrance fees
- eBird checklists for the day’s stops
Next Departure
11th Oct - 14th Oct 2022
Additional information
Group Size
- This tour is limited to a group of 6 participants with one tour leader.