It is endemic to northern Chile and only known from its type locality, Río Vilama near San Pedro de Atacama.

The snout is subovoid in dorsal view and prominently pointed laterally.

[2] The largest tadpoles (Gosner stage 35) are 84 mm (3.3 in) in total length.

[2] This species has a very limited known range, within which it is threatened by water pollution caused by mining activities.

Additional threats are abstraction of water for human consumption and agriculture, as well as recreational activities.