The Amazing Altiplano

The Altiplano, when translated into simple English means ‘High Plain.’ These huge plains are spread over 4 major South American countries. The Altiplano occupies parts of northern Argentina and Chile along with the western region of Bolivia and southern Peru.

Altiplano is full of deserts, volcanoes, geysers, marshes and grasslands, and originates near the world-famous Lake Titicaca in Chile and then extends to a huge 1,000 km in the south east direction and ends in South west of Bolivia.

The height of this natural wonder averages around 3,750 meters and the different in height between this South American wonder and the Tibetan mountains is not much. However, a striking difference of Altiplano vis-à-vis the Tibetan plateau is the presence of huge active volcanoes. The surroundings of the Altiplano are pretty amazing as well, the southwest is dominated by probably the driest deserts of the world, The Atacama Desert and the east sees the world famous Amazon Rainforest.

Besides, there’s the Salar de Uyuni, which ranks as the largest salt water lake in the world.

The climate on the plains is cool and the region sees very little rainfall and the temperatures also vary amongst the various regions of the plains. While it is common to see a temperature of around 3 degree Celsius in and around the western mountain range, the temperature near Lake Titicaca and its surrounding areas is 12 degree Celsius.

A similar feature is also seen with regards to the rainfall of the region, while the south west sees less than 200 mm of rainfall annually, the Lake Titicaca region sees more than 800 mm of rainfall annually.

Snowfall can take place anytime between April and September and such an event is seen only towards the north. However, the snow doesn’t fall on a regular basis and it is fair to say in a year, you can experience snowfall only 5 times.

The administrative capital of Bolivia, the city of La Paz is the main city where the Altiplano range passes.

Listed below are some of the questions which may be on your mind?

How do I reach the Altiplano?

The Altiplano range is spread over multiple countries. It is recommended you visit the Bolivian city of La Paz. The city is very near to the eastern split of the Altiplano. You can enter Bolivia via the city’s El Alto International Airport, which hosts flights from around the globe.

Once in La Paz, the range is a four and a half hours drive by bus.

Alternately, you can also start your adventure via the Chilean city of Arica, which is considered ideal for first time visitors.

Where do I stay during my Altiplano adventure?

There are a number of good accommodation facilities to choose from. The more popular landmarks are Hotel Explora Atacama, Hotel Awasi, Hotel Tierra Atacama, Hotel Alto Atacama, Hotel Altiplanico, Hotel La Aldea, Hotel Kimal, Hotel Terrantai and Hotel Tulor.

When is the best time to visit the Altiplano?

The Altiplano sees rainfall during the months of December through March. It is recommended you avoid the place during these months as the place can get slippery. The winter season in the plains is during the months of June and July and the temperatures can go into the negative as well especially at night. Hence, you should visit the place during the months of September to November, when the weather is pleasant for a visit, however, chances of rainfall can never be ruled out.

In conclusion, the Altiplano is an adventure lover’s ultimate destination. Once you have scaled the heights, you can see some of the best places the world has to offer. However, please make it a point to see that your fitness standards are at their highest as reaching a higher altitude can take its own toll on one’s health. A trip to Altiplano allows you to experience so many other wonders like the Lake Titicaca, and the world’s largest salt water Lake Etc, So, what are you waiting for, just go ahead and plan that adventure to the Altiplano.