Suriplaza

Suriplaza is a stretch of eroded volcanic tuff on the altiplano road between Putre and the Salar de Surire, where the soft pale rock has weathered into columns, fins and rounded forms standing out of the plain at over four thousand metres. Vicuna graze around it and the ground is bofedal wetland in places. It is not a destination in itself - there is no facility, no sign of any substance and no path - but it is the landmark on a long and otherwise featureless drive, and the standard stop between Putre and the salt flat. The name refers to the suri, the Andean rhea, which lives in this country.

Highlights

• Eroded tuff pinnacles - columns and fins on the altiplano.
• Over four thousand metres - with the effects that brings.
• Vicuna and bofedal wetland - the ground around the formations.
• A landmark on a long drive - between Putre and Surire.

When to go

April to November; the summer rains close the road. Two hours.

What to expect

There is nothing here but the rocks - no facilities, no path, no interpretation. The altitude is serious and the road is rough gravel. It is a stop, not a destination.

Nearby

Salar de Surire is south; Putre and Lauca are north.