Chile

Putre, Chile

Putre, Chile

Putre is a quaint and picturesque town located in the Arica and Parinacota Region of Chile. Situated at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Hiking travelers
  • Sightseeing travelers
  • Visiting in December to February
Recommended stay
3-5 days days
Best time
December to February
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Putre, Chile is a strong pick for hiking & sightseeing — plan about 3-5 days days. Peak season: December to February.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 72/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈9.6 km span)

6 Places to explore
3-5 days Recommended days
December to February Best season
8 Nearby places

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When to go

High season: December to February

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · September · October

Weather

Autumn

10°C to 20°C

Spring

15°C to 25°C

Summer

20°C to 30°C

Winter

5°C to 15°C

How to get there

How to Reach Putre in Chile

Putre is a picturesque village located in the Arica and Parinacota Region of Chile. Nestled in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet), Putre offers stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Here are some ways to reach Putre:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Putre is the Chacalluta International Airport in Arica, Chile. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Putre. The drive from the airport to Putre takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Andes along the way.

By Road:

If you prefer a scenic road trip, you can reach Putre by driving from Arica. The journey takes you through the stunning Lauca National Park, where you can admire the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The drive from Arica to Putre takes around 3 hours, depending on the road conditions and stops along the way.

By Bus:

Another option to reach Putre is by taking a bus from Arica. Several bus companies operate regular services between Arica and Putre. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours, offering panoramic views of the Andean landscapes.

By Guided Tour:

If you prefer a hassle-free journey with a knowledgeable guide, you can join a guided tour to Putre. Many tour operators in Arica offer day trips or multi-day tours to Putre, allowing you to explore the village and its surroundings while learning about the local culture and history.

Important Tips:

  • Due to the high altitude, it is recommended to acclimatize in Arica or other lower-altitude areas before heading to Putre.
  • Carry warm clothing, as temperatures in Putre can drop significantly, especially during the night.
  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Don't forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense at high altitudes.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions of the indigenous communities in Putre.

Once you reach Putre, you can immerse yourself in the village's charm, explore its colonial architecture, visit nearby hot springs, and embark on adventurous hikes in the Andes. Putre is a hidden gem in Chile, offering a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Getting to know Putre, Chile

Putre is a quaint and picturesque town located in the Arica and Parinacota Region of Chile. Situated at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), Putre offers stunning views of the surrounding Andean mountains and is surrounded by the Lauca National Park.

Known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Putre is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The town's colonial architecture and cobblestone streets add to its charm, while the nearby national park provides ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.

One of the main attractions in Putre is the San Pedro de Atacama Church, a historic landmark that dates back to the 17th century. This beautiful adobe church is adorned with traditional religious paintings and is a testament to the town's colonial past.

For those seeking adventure, Putre serves as a gateway to explore the Lauca National Park. The park is home to several volcanoes, including the imposing Parinacota Volcano, and is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 140 bird species inhabiting its diverse ecosystems.

In addition to its natural attractions, Putre also offers a glimpse into the local indigenous culture. The town is predominantly inhabited by indigenous Aymara people, and visitors can learn about their traditions, visit local markets, and even participate in traditional rituals.

Overall, Putre is a hidden gem in Chile, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Whether you are looking for breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, or an immersive cultural experience, Putre has something for everyone.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Carry enough water and sun protection while hiking
  • Visit the Lauca National Park for stunning landscapes
  • Take a guided tour to explore the Putre's indigenous culture
  • Enjoy the clear night skies for stargazing
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the empanadas

Places worth exploring

6 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Putre, Chile?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days days in Putre, Chile, Chile.

When is the best time to visit Putre, Chile?

High season is typically December to February.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Putre, Chile?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, September, October.

What kind of trip is Putre, Chile good for?

Putre, Chile suits Hiking, Sightseeing, Wildlife watching, Photography.

Is Putre, Chile walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Putre, Chile?

Carry enough water and sun protection while hiking

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Putre, Chile → Arica → Tacna · ≈95 km
  • Putre, Chile → Arica → Pocollay · ≈100 km
  • Putre, Chile → Arica → Calana · ≈109 km

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