SURIRE SALT

One of the most important attractions of this place is the presence of the flamenco, a migratory bird and their nest building sites; the quietness of this high Andean landscape and wetlands are legendary.

These are long-living gregarious species and their reproduction is spaced out over time. In this lagoon, there are three types of flamencos (of the six existing in the world): the Chilean flamenco, the big Parina and the small Parina of James flamenco. The access to the nesting area is restricted to protect them and their chicks.

In the nearby pampas and wetlands, it is also possible to observe a great amount of vicuñas and nandues of the puna. The predominant vegetation is formed by brave straw, llaretilla, vicuna grass, tota and chachacoma.
 
This zone presents a flat surface that belongs to the Surire Salt Flat, with a predominant altitude in its center (4,322 meters) close to the Oquealla Hill. The land includes the National Monument and    it is covered by an extensive number of lagoons of variable size and two affluent rivers to the salt flat, both of moderate volumes, they are the Surire or Casinane and the Blanco.
A great thermal oscillation is normal here, the temperatures fluctuates between -15°C in the winter nights and 5°C during the day. The annual precipitations reach an average of 250 mm and the general temperatures during the year oscillates between 5°C and -5°C.
 
Two areas of camping are available, they are located in the sector of Polloqueré , a Thermal Water. Important information: this camping does not have hygienic services, because of this reason, we suggest going prepared.

HOW TO GET THERE

REFERENCE OF DISTANCES:
- From Putre ……………127 km
- From Arica ………….. 181 km

ACCESS:
By taking The International highway Ch-11 from Arica, approximately 165 Km, to the southeast along a road which is in good condition the whole year, except during rainy seasons (the altiplanic winter from December to February).

Also, you can follow the International highway Ch-11 from Arica to Zapahuira and, then continue towards the Chapiquiña pass and finally connecting to the road A-235.

TRANSPORTATION:
There is no public transportation towards Surire, so, it is recommendable to rent a double traction vehicle or taking a tour.