- Address: Ruta 27 Ch San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta, Chile;
- Height above sea level: 5916 m;
- Dimensions: 70 to 90 m.
A trip to an ordinary lake will bring a lot of impressions, but much more emotion is caused by a crater. It is such a lake Likankabur is located in the area of Antofagasta , on top of the eponymous volcano. It is considered one of the highest mountains, because it is located at an altitude of 5916 m.
Fortunately, tourists who come to Chile , they will be able to visit the lake, without crossing the borders with Bolivia. Since the volcano itself is divided between the two countries, it will not be possible to examine it completely without leaving Chile. But Likankabur belongs entirely to the Chilean side.
What is a lake?
Crater Lake Likankabur is one of the main attractions of the Atacama Desert . The dimensions of the reservoir are impressive - 70 to 90 m. The main feature is the fact that the lake is covered with ice for most of the year. Despite the low temperature, it contains living organisms. The depth of the lake, which is noted for the activity of hot springs, is 8 m. Perhaps this is what makes plankton animals comfortable in the Likankabur water basin. In those places where the lake is not covered with ice, the travelers are waiting for the pink flamingos. They represent an incredible sight, located on the background of snow-white slopes.
Divers did not have to climb so high that they would dive afterwards. The first immersion in the lake was committed in 1981 by Dr. Johan Reinhard. Then a few years later he returned for a second dive with two colleagues.
Preparation for ascent
To impress the trip, and in particular from the ascent to the top of the volcano, remained the best, this should be prepared. The travel agency provides transport, organizes breakfast. But travelers better to bring their sunglasses, hat or cap, warm clothes and water.
As for the guides, among them it is difficult to find a Russian or an anlogovoryaschego person. Therefore, a minimum knowledge of the Spanish language still does not hurt, or you can rely on intuition and try to understand what the guide is talking about.
How to get to the lake?
To get to the crater lake of Likankabur is best from San Pedro de Atacama , where you can easily buy a tour. An experienced guide will lead you through specially designed trails to the top of the volcano. On the way, tourists will have time to get acquainted with local beauties. There is something to see, because on the slopes of the volcano were discovered the ancient buildings of the Incas.