Ruta Provincial 11 Laguna de los Pozuelos Circuit
Flamingo sanctuary at the roof of Argentina
The volcanic rim road above Laguna de los Pozuelos cuts through Argentina’s highest flamingo sanctuary, where three species of flamingos feed in mineral-rich waters that haven’t changed since the Inca. At 3,500 meters, this altiplano circuit skirts the Bolivian border through a landscape of vicuñas, salt flats, and ancient trade routes. The technical challenge comes at Abra de Lizoite pass, where loose volcanic scree and altitude-thinned air test both vehicle and driver.
This is moderate terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD and altitude preparation — bring coca leaves and extra water. The route demands respect for extreme weather that can shift from blazing sun to snow squalls in minutes. Best traveled March through October when roads are passable and flamingos are nesting. Fuel up in La Quiaca before heading out — there’s nothing but wind and wildlife for 150 kilometers. You earn views across the Puna that stretch to Bolivia’s snow peaks and memories of one of South America’s last intact altiplano ecosystems.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | High Altitude, Remote, Scenic, Wildlife |
| Length (miles) | 93 mi / 150 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 11482 ft |
| Best season | March-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | La Quiaca, Jujuy |
| Land manager | Administración de Parques Nacionales |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or high-clearance 4WD handle this without a lift?
A stock high-clearance 4WD is the listed minimum and will manage the route in dry conditions. Rocky, uneven altiplano dirt tracks are the main challenge — a lifted suspension helps but isn't mandatory if you're not pushing it in wet season.
Is the circuit passable in November through February?
November through February is the rainy season on the altiplano — dirt tracks can turn to mud and some low sections may flood. Best season is March through October when the surface is firm and conditions are stable.
Do I need a permit to drive through Laguna de los Pozuelos?
Laguna de los Pozuelos is a Reserva de Biosfera and National Monument managed by Administración de Parques Nacionales. Entry may require registration at a park checkpoint — check with APN or the Abra Pampa office before departure as regulations can change.
What's the hardest section of this circuit and what makes it technical?
The most demanding stretches are the ungraded dirt tracks crossing the altiplano where corrugation, loose rock, and sudden soft spots from subsurface water are the real hazards. At 3,500 meters elevation, altitude fatigue also hits harder than the terrain difficulty implies — don't underestimate it.
How far is the nearest fuel from the circuit and is there any cell service out there?
Fuel up in La Quiaca or Abra Pampa before heading out — there are no services on the circuit itself. Cell service is nonexistent along the route, and the 93-mile loop through remote altiplano means you're fully self-sufficient once you leave town.
Trail track
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