Lejía Lake is a remarkable natural salt lake that is located in the Altiplano of the Antofagasta Region, within the northern part of the Republic of Chile. As the small lake is nestled within the Atacama Desert which is one of the driest places on Earth, the lake lies at an elevation of approximately 4,325 m (14,190 ft) above sea level, in a remote and strikingly beautiful landscape surrounded by volcanoes, including the towering Lascar Volcano, which is one of Chile’s most active.
The formation of Lejía Lake is quite complex as it was formed in a volcanic depression as a result of complex geological processes associated with the intense volcanic activity in the region. The lake is a saline body of water, fed by the minimal precipitation and melting snow from the surrounding mountains, making it an endorheic basin where water does not flow out to any ocean or river but is lost primarily through evaporation. Over time, these geological and climatic conditions have given the lake its unique characteristics, including its vivid blue-green color, caused by the high concentration of minerals and salts in the water.
The importance of Lejía Lake lies in both its ecological and cultural significance because, for the local indigenous communities, particularly the Atacameño people, the lake and the surrounding landscape have long held spiritual importance, as the area is considered sacred, with the volcanoes seen as powerful deities or spirits that govern the natural world. Although the lake itself is remote and less frequented than other parts of the Atacama Desert, it plays a role in the cultural narratives and traditions of the indigenous populations.
Lejía Lake is a destination for those who seek to experience the untouched beauty of the high-altitude Andean landscapes, but visiting the lake is possible, however, it requires careful planning due to its remote location and challenging conditions. The nearest town to Lejía Lake is San Pedro de Atacama, a popular base for exploring the Atacama Desert, and from San Pedro, the journey to the lake involves a drive of approximately 100 km (62 mi) through rugged terrain, often requiring a 4×4 vehicle. The route takes visitors through some of the most dramatic scenery in the Atacama, with expansive salt flats, ancient lava fields, and towering volcanoes dominating the landscape.
Still, the flora and fauna around Lejía Lake are adapted to the extreme conditions of the high-altitude desert environment. The harsh climate, characterized by intense solar radiation, low oxygen levels, and cold temperatures, limits the diversity of life, yet the area is home to some resilient species, and the flora consists mainly of hardy shrubs and grasses, such as tola (Parastrephia lepidophylla) and paja brava (Festuca orthophylla), which can withstand the arid conditions and provide sustenance for the local wildlife. The fauna includes species that are specially adapted to the high-altitude environment, such as the vicuña, a wild relative of the llama, and various species of birds, including Andean flamingos, which are often seen feeding in the shallow waters of the lake. The presence of flamingos, with their striking pink plumage, against the backdrop of the stark desert landscape, creates a stunning visual contrast that is a highlight for visitors.
Overall, Lejía Lake’s remote and pristine nature makes it an important site for scientific research, particularly in the fields of geology, ecology, and climatology, since researchers are interested in studying the lake’s unique ecosystem, as well as the effects of climate change on such high-altitude environments. The lake’s extreme conditions are also of interest to astrobiologists, as they may provide insights into the potential for life in similar environments on other planets, such as Mars.
For those who wish to visit Lejía Lake, it is crucial to be well-prepared because the high altitude can pose challenges, including altitude sickness, so acclimatization is important. Visitors should bring plenty of water, sun protection, and warm clothing, as temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night. As there are no facilities or services at the lake, all provisions must be brought in by the visitors, and the best time to visit is during the austral spring and summer months, from November to March, when the weather is milder, and the roads are more accessible.
In conclusion, Lejía Lake is a hidden gem in the remote highlands of northern Chile, offering an extraordinary experience for those who venture to its shores. Its unique geological formation, cultural significance, and stunning natural beauty make it a destination of great interest for adventurers, nature lovers, and scientists alike, and as the journey to Lejía Lake is not easy, but for those who make the effort, the reward is an unforgettable encounter with one of the most isolated and breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
