Laguna Verde Remote Access Route
Emerald crater lake in active volcanic terrain
Laguna Verde sits at 4,200 meters in a crater between Volcán Licancabur and Juriques, its copper-sulfate waters shifting from emerald to turquoise as thermal springs heat the lake floor. The access route climbs from San Pedro de Atacama through increasingly lunar terrain, passing the smaller Laguna Blanca before the final rocky ascent to the viewing area above the green lake. Steam vents and sulfur deposits mark the active geology, while vicuñas graze the sparse puna grasslands between volcanic debris fields.
This moderate route requires high-clearance 4WD for the rocky final approach and loose volcanic surfaces. Altitude affects both vehicles and passengers—carry extra water and descend if experiencing altitude sickness symptoms. Border guards patrol the area due to proximity to Bolivia, so carry proper identification. Best accessed March through October when weather is most stable. The route rewards drivers with one of the Altiplano’s most stunning geological displays, plus excellent dispersed camping opportunities with million-star skies at altitude.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 62 mi / 99.8 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 13779 ft |
| Best season | March-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta |
| Land manager | CONAF Los Flamencos National Reserve |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | conaf.cl |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum rig I need for this route?
High-clearance 4WD is required — not negotiable. Rocky volcanic terrain, loose scree sections, and no rescue infrastructure mean a stock Hilux or 4Runner with a proper 4WD system is the floor. Lifted and skid-plated is better.
When is the route accessible and what closes it down?
March through October is the reliable window. The Bolivian altiplano wet season (roughly November–February) brings flash flooding and road washouts that can cut access entirely — conditions change fast at this altitude.
Do I need a permit to drive this route?
Yes. The route falls within CONAF's Los Flamencos National Reserve — you'll need to sort entry fees and paperwork through CONAF before you go. Check current requirements at conaf.cl, as fees and processes change.
What's the hardest section and what should I expect?
The upper volcanic approach is the crux — exposed rocky track, minimal traction on loose scree, and thin air above 13,000 ft slowing everything down including your engine. Take it slow, watch your temps, and don't assume the GPS line reflects actual driveable surface.
How far is it from San Pedro de Atacama and is there fuel or water along the route?
San Pedro is your last reliable fuel and water stop — fill everything before you leave. There's no infrastructure on the route, no water sources you should count on, and no cell service once you're out. Carry at least 2-3 days of water and enough fuel for 150+ km round trip with buffer.
Trail track
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