Copacabana

A small village serving as a gateway to the altiplanic lagoons with traditional Andean culture and local crafts. The town's proximity to pristine natural attractions and authentic charm make it a worthwhile stop for those exploring the region's high-altitude ecosystems.

Things to do

• Laguna Cejar — Visit this striking turquoise salt lagoon where the high mineral content allows visitors to float effortlessly, located about 30 km south of Copacabana.
• Laguna Tebinquinche — Explore this pristine high-altitude lagoon known for its rich birdlife including flamingos and Andean geese, situated roughly 20 km from town.
• Ojos del Salar — Walk to these natural freshwater springs in the otherwise salt-dominated Atacama landscape, visible from the village area.
• Artisan Markets — Browse local craft stalls in the village center for handwoven textiles, alpaca wool products, and traditional Andean handicrafts made by resident artisans.
• Sunset at Laguna Ojos del Salar — Experience the dramatic color changes of the springs and surrounding salt flats during golden hour from this accessible nearby viewpoint.
• Socaire Trek — Day hike to the nearby traditional Andean village of Socaire to experience authentic highland culture and pre-Incan terraced agriculture.

Food to try

• Charqui — Dried llama or alpaca meat, a traditional high-altitude protein that has sustained Andean communities for centuries and remains a local staple.
• Cazuela de Choclo — A hearty corn and meat stew cooked in an earthenware pot, providing warmth at high altitude and featuring local corn varieties.
• Quinoa Soup — A nutritious local soup made with native quinoa, potatoes, and vegetables grown in the altiplanic region.
• Empanadas de Carne — Hand-filled pastries with spiced local meat, a convenient street food made by village vendors throughout Copacabana.
• Alpaca Stew — A slow-cooked regional specialty combining tender alpaca meat with native potatoes, aji peppers, and cumin reflecting traditional Andean flavors.

Local customs & good to know

• Altitude Acclimatization — Copacabana sits at approximately 2,320 meters elevation; spend your first day resting and drinking mate de coca (coca leaf tea) to adjust before visiting higher lagoons.
• Respect Sacred Sites — The lagoons and landscape hold spiritual significance in Andean cosmology; ask permission before photographing locals or entering ceremonial areas.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While some English may be spoken, locals greatly appreciate visitors attempting Spanish, and many older residents speak primarily Spanish and Quechua.
• Best Visit Season — December through March offers the most pleasant weather, though the altiplano is accessible year-round; avoid the austral winter (June–August) when temperatures drop significantly at night.