Both protected areas, along with Salar de Surire Natural Monument, form Lauca Biosphere Reserve.

[2] One of the main attractions of the park is the small lacustrine area formed by Chungará and Cotacotani lakes, which lies at the foothills of the Payachata volcanic group.

It runs from Chile Route 5 in the vicinity of Arica to Tambo Quemado Pass and provides the main access to the park.

Mammals in the area include vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, guanacos, tarucas, cougars and vizcachas.

[4] The park's vegetation is adapted to the harsh puna environment, as are the bofedales, llaretales and Andean steppes.