The National Reserve Las Vicuñas is located in the Altiplano within the region of Arica and Parinacota and the community of Putre. It was created in 1983 based on the decree n.° 29 of the agricultural ministry of Chile. The reserve covers a Surface of 209.131 hectares and forms an integral part of the Lauca Biosphere Reserve.
Most of the Las Vicuñas Reserve consist of Altiplano, highlands and the Andean steppe. It is topographically interesting due to its plains, dramatic reliefs and elevations like the mountains Puquintica and Arintica, which both reach up to more than 5.500m above sea level. The vegetation is composed of “bofedales” (typical wetlands), bushland and “tolar” (dry steppe vegetation) on the plains, as well as quinoa trees and other native plants from the Andes on the flanks of the surrounding hills and mountains. All this is topped off with a unique hydrography, created by the rivers Lauca and Guallatire and the lagoons Japu and Paquisa, and a fascinating fauna. Within the National Reserve Las Vicuñas, one can also discover archaeological treasures: “apachetas” (stone piles that served as traditional offerings of the indigenous tribes), pre-Hispanic altars and highland sanctuaries are frequent sights throughout the reserve.
On the other hand, the living indigenous population invites visitors to explore the local Aymara culture. The reserve is a great place to get in touch with and learn more about the ancient cultures, their legends and myths as well as the living communities. Nowadays, the Aymara live off livestock like alpacas and lamas.
In the region, a unique mixture of native flora and fauna can be observed. Among the typical vegetation, one can find the “tola” (Fabiana densa), the quinoa (Polylepis besseri), the yareta (Azorella compacta) and the “paja brava” (Festuca orthophylla). The local animal species that can be spotted in the reserve are lamas, alpacas, Andean armadillos, pumas, cavys, amphibians and lizards, condors, highland deer, Andean geese, Andean ducks, the Andean ostrich, and of course the vicuña.
The National Reserve Las Vicuñas allows to discover remote and incredibly picturesque Andean villages and green meadows where the protected vicuña grazes. When traveling from Chungará to Colchane, you will cross this beautiful patch of land and can take a well-deserved rest in the hot springs of Polloquere along the shore of the Salt Lake Surire.