The reserve is famous for its three species of flamingos: Andean, Chilean, and James's flamingos, which feed in the mineral-rich lagoons. Other notable bird species include Andean geese, Puna plovers, and Andean gulls. The reserve also provides habitat for numerous threatened mammals such as the vicuña, Andean fox, and viscacha. The salt flats and surrounding areas support various lizard species adapted to desert conditions. The lagoons host unique microorganisms that give the waters their characteristic colors and serve as the base of the local food chain, supporting the flamingo populations.
Despite the harsh desert conditions, the reserve hosts approximately 200 plant species adapted to extreme environments. Vegetation varies by altitude, with salt-tolerant species like Distichlis spicata dominating the salt flat margins. At higher elevations, hardy bunch grasses such as Festuca orthophylla and Stipa ichu form the basis of high-altitude vegetation communities. Notable species include the candelabro cacti (Browningia candelaris), llareta (Azorella compacta), and various species of Parastrephia shrubs. These plants have developed remarkable adaptations to survive the extreme temperature variations, high solar radiation, and minimal rainfall.
The reserve's landscape was shaped by intense volcanic activity and extreme desert conditions. It encompasses part of the Atacama Desert and the Andes Mountains, featuring dramatic geological formations including salt flats, volcanic peaks, and mineral-rich lagoons. The Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat, is a prominent feature formed by the evaporation of mineral-rich waters over millions of years. The area's volcanic history is evident in the numerous cone-shaped volcanoes, lava fields, and geothermal features. Mineral deposits create striking colors in the landscape, from copper-tinted mountains to white salt crusts and red-hued lagoons.
The reserve was established in 1990 to protect the unique Atacama Desert ecosystem and its cultural heritage. The area has been inhabited for over 11,000 years by indigenous peoples, primarily the Atacameño (Lickan Antay) communities, who developed sophisticated agricultural and water management systems. Ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites throughout the reserve testify to this rich cultural history. The reserve's name comes from the large populations of Andean and Chilean flamingos that inhabit its salt flats and lagoons. Traditional indigenous management practices are still incorporated into the reserve's conservation strategy through a co-management agreement with local communities.
The reserve encompasses seven distinct sectors, each with unique attractions. The Salar de Atacama sector features the expansive salt flat and Chaxa Lagoon, offering the best flamingo viewing opportunities. The Miscanti and Miñiques Lakes, located at over 4,000 meters elevation, are pristine high-altitude lagoons surrounded by volcanoes. The Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) showcases otherworldly desert landscapes shaped by wind erosion. The Tara Salt Flat and its surrounding rock formations provide spectacular views of the high Andes. The reserve also includes the Aguas Calientes 1 Salt Flat and the Pujsa Salt Flat, both important for their unique geological formations and wildlife habitat.
Los Flamencos National Reserve experiences a typical high-altitude desert climate characterized by extreme temperature variations between day and night. Daytime temperatures can reach 25°C (77°F), while nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing, sometimes reaching -10°C (14°F). The area receives minimal rainfall, averaging less than 100mm annually, with most precipitation occurring during the Altiplanic Winter (December to February). The air is extremely dry, with humidity levels often below 10%, and strong winds are common in the afternoons. UV radiation is intense due to the high altitude, which ranges from 2,300 to 4,500 meters above sea level.
Chile
-23.2170°, -67.4830°
1990
739
Los Flamencos National Reserve is famous for its salt flats and lagoons that attract large populations of flamingos. The reserve encompasses seven distinct sectors including the Salar de Atacama and Laguna Chaxa. It features dramatic landscapes ranging from salt flats to high-altitude lakes.