Cañapa Lagoon in Uyuni – Complete Traveler’s Guide 🌅
Cañapa Lagoon is one of the hidden gems of the Bolivian Altiplano. Surrounded by volcanoes and mountains, its shallow turquoise and green waters create a magical contrast with the reddish and ochre colors of the Puna. This place is part of the famous Route of the High Andean Jewels, a lagoon circuit in the middle of the Nor Lípez Desert that connects the Salar de Uyuni with the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve.
In addition to its scenic beauty, Cañapa Lagoon is a key spot for observing Andean, Chilean, and James’s flamingos, birds that find these waters an ideal refuge to feed on the rich minerals and microorganisms.
📍 Location of Cañapa Lagoon
- Province: Nor Lípez, Department of Potosí, Bolivia.
- Altitude: 4,140 m a.s.l.
- Approximate coordinates: 21° 34′ S – 67° 44′ W.
- Setting: At the foot of Cerro Cañapa (5,882 m), an extinct volcano that provides a stunning backdrop.
👉 The lagoon is part of a group of high Andean lakes formed by groundwater and melting snow from nearby mountains.
⏱ Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (May – October): clear skies, intense colors, and passable roads. Ideal for photography.
- Rainy season (November – March): the landscape is filled with clouds and reflecting water, but some routes can be tricky.
- Temperatures: Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C; at night, temperatures can drop to -10°C.
📌 Tip: Wear layers of clothing, because in a single day, temperatures can go from hot under the sun to extreme cold in the afternoons.
🌊 Characteristics of the Lagoon
- Type of lagoon: salt lake, of high plateau origin.
- Water color: blue-green due to minerals and microscopic algae.
- Altitude: 4,140 m above sea level.
- Surface area: relatively small compared to Laguna Colorada, but with a great scenic appeal.
🦩 Wildlife in Laguna Cañapa
One of the main attractions of Laguna Cañapa is the large number of Andean, Chilean, and James’s flamingos that gather on its shores. You can also observe:
- Andean birds such as the suri or Andean rhea, high Andean gulls, and wild ducks.
- Mammals such as vizcachas and Andean foxes.
The combination of fauna and landscape makes it a must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
🏞️ Landscape and surroundings
The area is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, which on clear days are reflected in the lagoon, creating unforgettable postcards. In winter, part of its waters freeze, while in summer it fills with flamingos and migratory birds. It is a quiet place, with pure air and a sense of isolation that deeply connects with nature.
🚙 How to get to Cañapa Lagoon
- From Uyuni
The most common way to get there is by booking a 4×4 tour from the city of Uyuni. Classic 3-day itineraries to the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve include:
- Salar de Uyuni.
- Altiplano towns like San Juan.
- Cañapa Lagoon (usually on day 2).
- Other lagoons like Hedionda, Chiar Khota, Honda, and Colorada.
- From San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)
Many travelers start the route from Chile. After crossing the Hito Cajón border, tours enter the Bolivian lagoon region directly, and Cañapa is often one of the first stops.
🌿 What to See and Do in Cañapa Lagoon
- Flamingo watching: three different species coexist in these waters.
- Panoramic photography: the contrast between the lagoon, the Cañapa volcano, and the high plateau sky creates unforgettable postcards.
- Volcanic landscape: observe deposits of sulfur, borates, and unique geological formations.
- Gentle walks: walking along the shore allows you to closely appreciate the hues of the water and the minerals that change depending on the daylight.
- Part of the Route of the Lagoons: this is an essential stop on the circuit that includes Hedionda, Chiar Khota, and Colorada lagoons.
🏨 Nearby Accommodation
There are no hotels or tourist infrastructure in the Laguna Cañapa area, so accommodation is available at:
- Community shelters: in towns like San Juan or near the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve.
- Salt hotels in Uyuni: if you start or end the tour in this city.
- Basic hostels in Villa Mar or Alota.
📌 Visiting Tips
Topic Recommendation
Altitude Make a stop in Uyuni or Potosí to acclimatize before climbing to over 4,000 m.
Clothing Wear layers: thermal shirts, fleece, a waterproof and windproof jacket, a hat, and gloves.
Sunscreen High-protection sunscreen, UV sunglasses, and a hat are essential.
Food and Water Most tours include meals, but bring energy snacks and extra water.
Cash There are no ATMs in rural areas, so it’s best to carry cash in Bolivians.
Environmental Respect Do not leave trash, do not enter the water, and do not disturb the flamingos.
⭐ Tourist Importance
Cañapa Lagoon is a classic stop on the Uyuni Altiplano Lagoons Route, along with Laguna Hedionda and Laguna Colorada. Its beauty lies in the fact that it is not overcrowded with tourists and allows you to enjoy direct contact with the altiplano ecosystem. It is considered a natural viewpoint of the Bolivian Altiplano.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a tour that includes Cañapa Lagoon cost?
From Uyuni, a 3-day tour costs between USD 150 and USD 250 per person (includes guide, transportation, accommodation, and meals).
2. Is it possible to visit the lagoon without a tour?
It is not recommended, as it is located in a remote area with dirt roads and no signage. The safest option is to go on a 4×4 tour.
3. Can you camp at Laguna Cañapa?
Wild camping is not permitted to protect the fauna and flora. Staying is only possible in designated shelters.
4. How difficult is the trip?
It doesn’t require demanding physical effort, but the altitude may affect some travelers (soroche). It is recommended to bring altitude sickness pills or coca infusions.
Laguna Cañapa is a must-see destination for those traveling through the Bolivian Altiplano. Its vibrant colors, wildlife, and vast landscape offer a unique experience that perfectly complements a visit to the Salar de Uyuni. Whether you arrive from Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama, including this lagoon in your itinerary ensures an unforgettable picture of your trip through Bolivia.