The Red Stones Tour + Altiplanic Lagoons + Chaxa Lagoon is an immersive 11-hour adventure that showcases Chile’s stunning natural landscapes. Traversing through the Atacama Desert, you will discover the charming village of Toconao, witness the vibrant wildlife at Laguna Chaxa, and learn about local agricultural practices in Socaire. With breathtaking vistas at Lagunas Miscanti and Meñiques, and the opportunity to trek to Piedras Rojas and visit the Tropic of Capricorn, this tour promises an enriching experience amidst nature’s wonders. But the true allure lies in the journey itself, as travelers embark on an unforgettable exploration of Chile’s captivating Altiplano region.
Key Points
- This comprehensive tour offers visits to the picturesque Toconao village, Laguna Chaxa in Los Flamencos National Reserve, and the stunning Lagunas Miscanti and Meñiques.
- Explore the region’s diverse wildlife, including horned tagua, parinas chicas, and caitío, as well as unique species like Baird’s sandpiper and puna plover.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, a driver-guide, breakfast, and lunch, but entrance fees to national parks must be paid separately.
- Certain groups are advised against participation, such as children under 12, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility issues or health concerns.
- The tour has received excellent customer feedback, with a perfect 5/5 rating, highlighting the stunning landscapes and attentive guidance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Red Stones Tour + Altiplanic Lagoons + Chaxa Lagoon is priced from £62.06 per person and lasts 11 hours.
It’s offered in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.
The tour includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking driver-guide, breakfast, and lunch, as well as drop-off in the city center.
Entrance fees to the national park aren’t included and must be paid separately in advance.
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, heart problems, or seasickness.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Pedro De Atacama.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors on the Red Stones Tour will explore the picturesque village of Toconao, renowned for its simplicity and craftsmanship.
They’ll then venture to Laguna Chaxa in the Los Flamencos National Reserve, a stunning salt flat home to a variety of wildlife.
Next, they’ll visit Socaire, where they’ll learn about the town’s agricultural practices and see its historic church.
The tour culminates with a visit to the stunning Lagunas Miscanti and Meñiques, situated at an impressive 4,200 meters above sea level.
Along the way, guests will also trek to the iconic Piedras Rojas and stop at the Tropic of Capricorn, taking in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Wildlife and Flora
A wealth of diverse wildlife thrives in the captivating landscapes of the Red Stones Tour. The tour showcases an array of fascinating species, including the horned tagua, parinas chicas, caití, Baird’s sandpiper, puna plover, juarjual duck, and guallata. The surrounding flora is equally stunning, with the lush llareta and paja brava plants adding vibrant pops of color to the rugged terrain. Visitors will be awestruck by the dramatic volcanoes and mountainous reliefs that frame this natural wonderland. The following table provides a detailed breakdown of the wildlife and flora encountered on the tour:
Species | Description |
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Horned Tagua | A unique, horned bird native to the Altiplano region |
Parinas Chicas | A small shorebird found around the altiplanic lagoons |
Caití | A type of flamingo that thrives in the Chaxa Lagoon |
Baird’s Sandpiper | A migratory shorebird seen in the area |
Puna Plover | A plover species adapted to the high-altitude environment |
Juarjual Duck | A duck native to the Andes, with a distinctive appearance |
Guallata | A large, flightless bird related to the rhea |
Llareta | A slow-growing, cushion-like plant native to the Andes |
Paja Brava | A hardy, high-altitude grass found throughout the region |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup, shared transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking driver/guide, breakfast, and lunch, with drop-off in the center.
However, entrance tickets to the national parks must be purchased separately, costing $20,200 for locals and $28,750 for foreigners. These must be paid in advance.
The tour excludes anything not explicitly mentioned, such as drones, alcohol, and drugs, which aren’t permitted.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, seasickness, or over 80 years of age.
Travelers should bring warm clothing, sunscreen, water, a jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
Certain groups aren’t suited for this tour – it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, seasickness, or anyone over 80 years old.
Travelers should come prepared with warm clothing, sunscreen, water, a jacket, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Drones, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
The pickup process takes around 30 minutes, so guests should wait in the hotel lobby or reception. Booking this tour requires a minimum of 18 hours in advance.
With these considerations in mind, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable experience exploring the stunning Red Stones, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa Lagoon.
Customer Feedback
Travelers’ rave reviews, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single account from a Canadian visitor, underscore the tour’s exceptional quality. This enthusiastic feedback speaks volumes about the unforgettable experience the Red Stones Tour and Lagoons adventure provides.
Criteria | Rating |
---|---|
Overall Experience | 5/5 |
Value for Money | 5/5 |
Tour Guide | 5/5 |
Logistics | 5/5 |
The tour’s diverse itinerary, stunning landscapes, and attentive guidance clearly leave a lasting impression on participants. With this glowing customer endorsement, adventurers can look forward to an unforgettable exploration of Chile’s natural wonders.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking the Red Stones Tour and Lagoons is a straightforward process, allowing adventurers to secure their spot with no upfront payment.
Simply reserve your place online and pay later. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. This ensures visitors can easily adjust their itinerary if needed without incurring charges.
The minimum booking time is 18 hours before the tour departs, allowing ample time to arrange transportation and other logistics.
With these convenient booking options, exploring the stunning Red Stones, Altiplanic Lagoons, and Chaxa Lagoon has never been more accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning a visit to the stunning Red Stones and Altiplanic Lagoons, travelers may have several questions.
What should they expect during the tour? Can they bring any special equipment? What if they’ve medical conditions? The tour organizers have addressed these common queries:
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The tour involves moderate hiking, but guests can take their time and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
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Drones and alcohol aren’t permitted, but cameras and water bottles are encouraged.
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Participants with mobility issues, heart problems, or seasickness should consult with the tour operator before booking, as the high-altitude environment may pose challenges.
The tour give you an unforgettable experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Visit the Tour in a Smaller Group?
The tour information doesn’t mention an option for a smaller group size. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider as they may offer customized experiences or private tours upon request, subject to availability and additional fees.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though specific options may vary. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of adding extra experiences to the standard itinerary.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s a shared tour, so the group size may vary. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information on group sizes.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. All pricing appears to be a flat rate per person, regardless of age or student status. More details on any potential discounts aren’t provided.
Can the Tour Be Booked on Short Notice?
The tour can be booked on short notice, but it’s recommended to reserve at least 18 hours in advance. Last-minute bookings may be possible, but availability can’t be guaranteed.
The Sum Up
The Red Stones Tour + Altiplanic Lagoons + Chaxa Lagoon offers an unforgettable adventure through Chile’s breathtaking landscapes. Participants can expect an enriching experience, with opportunities to explore charming villages, witness vibrant wildlife, and learn about local agricultural practices. With a focus on comfort and safety, this tour promises to deliver an immersive and memorable journey amidst nature’s wonders.
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