Laguna de Pozuelos sits on the high Andean plateau of northwestern Jujuy province at an elevation of roughly 3,600 to 4,000 meters above sea level, making altitude acclimatization an essential consideration before any visit. The lagoon covers approximately 7,000 hectares when full, though its extent fluctuates considerably with summer rainfall, and complete drying has occurred during prolonged droughts. The water is alkaline and saline, with a maximum depth of only about one meter at its center — conditions that make it extremely shallow throughout. The main tributaries feeding the lagoon are the Río Cincel and the Río Santa Catalina.

The single official access point is located at the southeast corner of the reserve, where a park ranger station marks the start of an internal 7-kilometer road leading toward the shoreline. To reach this point from San Salvador de Jujuy, travelers drive north along Ruta Nacional 9 to Abra Pampa, then take Ruta Provincial 7 to the ranger station. Roads in the area are improved gravel and can be dusty; summer rainfall can affect road conditions significantly, so checking conditions before travel during that season is advisable. There are no fuel stations within the reserve — the nearest is in Rinconada — so arriving with a full tank is necessary.

The climate is dry and high-altitude, with extreme temperature swings between day and night. Warm clothing suitable for significant temperature changes is strongly recommended. The area also has naturally elevated arsenic levels in the water, compounded in some areas by historical mining activity that has contaminated tributary rivers.

The reserve is administered by Argentina's National Parks Administration and is open to the public free of charge. The park office is located in Abra Pampa. The lagoon and surrounding wetland hold multiple international designations: a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, and an Important Bird Area. It is part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.

Wildlife is the primary draw. The lagoon supports around 130 bird species, including all three flamingo species found in Argentina, with concentrations that can exceed 100,000 individuals. Other notable species include the giant coot, Andean avocet, and Puna plover. Summer brings migratory visitors from the northern hemisphere. Given the extreme shallowness of the water and its protected status, paddling is not a practical or appropriate activity here; wildlife observation from shore is the standard visitor experience.