Laguna del Carbón

Laguna del Carbón is a salt lake and depression in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina. It marks the country’s lowest natural point and is among the lowest continental points in the Southern Hemisphere.

The site is notable for its extensive salt flats and the dramatic drop below sea level within the Gran Bajo de San Julián depression; it is of interest to geographers and visitors seeking extreme natural points.

The basin is a geological depression formed by regional tectonic and climatic processes; there is no record of major urban development associated with the site and it remains a sparsely visited natural area.

Located in southern Patagonia inside Santa Cruz Province, the depression lies within the Gran Bajo de San Julián system of salt pans and dry basins in Argentina.

• Lowest point in Argentina and the Americas: Lies within the Gran Bajo de San Julián depression and is a saline lake occupying the lowest point in Argentina and the Americas.
• Approximate elevation: The surface sits at approximately 105 metres below sea level, making it one of the lowest continental points in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Laguna del Carbón is the lowest point in Argentina and the Americas - plan to visit specifically for that landmark and for wide-open salt-flat vistas rather than for facilities or services.
• Access is remote and roads can be rough; confirm current road conditions and local access rules in Santa Cruz Province and consider booking a local guide or 4x4 transfer to avoid getting stranded.
• There are essentially no visitor facilities on site, so schedule arrival and departure during daylight and inform your base (town or operator) of your expected timings - this helps avoid being caught out by sudden weather changes or mechanical issues.