Laguna Colorada
Laguna Colorada is one of the most extraordinary ecosystems of the Bolivian highlands and one of the most breathtaking stops within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. Its intense reddish color, the presence of thousands of flamingos, and the surrounding volcanic landscape make it a unique destination in the world.
Located at over 4,200 meters above sea level, visiting Laguna Colorada is an experience of direct contact with extreme nature, where every element—water, wildlife, wind, and silence—plays a special role.
📍 Where is Laguna Colorada located?
Laguna Colorada is located in the department of Potosí, in southern Bolivia, within the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, very close to the border with Chile.
Key facts:
- Altitude: 4,278 m a.s.l.
- Region: Southern Bolivian Altiplano
- Access: 4×4 vehicles only
- Visit included in Salar
🚙 How to get to Laguna Colorada
It is not possible to reach Laguna Colorada independently; access is exclusively through organized tours.
Most common routes:
- From Uyuni (Bolivia)
Classic route of the Salar de Uyuni – Eduardo Avaroa Reserve tour (3 days / 2 nights). - From San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)
Bolivia–Chile cross-country tour (4 days / 3 nights).
Transportation:
- Specialized 4×4 vehicles
- Local drivers with experience in high-altitude routes
The route crosses deserts, volcanoes, geysers, and other high-altitude lakes.
🌦️ Laguna Colorada Climate
The climate is cold, dry, and extreme year-round.
Approximate Temperatures:
- Day: 5°C to 12°C
- Night: -10°C to -20°C
Common Conditions:
- Strong winds
- High solar radiation
- Sudden weather changes
- Low wind chill even in sunshine
📅 Best time to visit Laguna Colorada
✅ Dry season (April to November) – RECOMMENDED
- Clear skies
- More stable access
- Excellent flamingo visibility
- Lower chance of rain
⚠️ Rainy season (December to March)
- Some roads may be affected
- Landscapes with more water and reflections
- Access subject to weather conditions
👉 Best time to visit: May to October.
🌱 Flora of Laguna Colorada
The flora of the surrounding area is adapted to extreme conditions of cold, salinity, and wind.
Main species:
- Yareta (an ancient, slow-growing plant)
- Paja brava and high-altitude grasses
- Microscopic algae (responsible for the reddish color)
- Lichens and halophytic plants
These species support the ecosystem’s food chain.
🦩 Fauna of Laguna Colorada
The fauna is one of the area’s greatest attractions.
Emblematic birds:
- Andean flamingo
- James’s flamingo
- Chilean flamingo
Other species:
- Andean gulls
- Wild ducks
- Andean foxes (occasionally)
- Vicuñas in nearby areas
Laguna Colorada is one of the main flamingo sanctuaries in the South American highlands.
🧭 Activities You Can Do
Although it’s a protected area, there are several contemplative activities available:
Permitted Activities:
- Flamingo watching
- Landscape and wildlife photography
- Short walks on marked trails
- Geological and volcanic observation
- Nature tourism and ecotourism
🚫 Not Permitted:
- Entering the water
- Leaving the trails
- Feeding animals
📸 Photography at Laguna Colorada
It’s one of the most photogenic places in Bolivia.
Recommendations:
- Use UV-filtering lenses
- Shoot early in the morning
- Play with reflections and contrasts
- Wear neutral-colored clothing for natural photos
💰 Prices and Visit Costs
Entrance to Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve:
- Foreigners: approx. 150 BOB
- Bolivians: reduced rate
👉 Usually included in the tour.
Reference price for the Salar de Uyuni tour:
- From Uyuni: USD 150 – 250 (3D/2N)
- From San Pedro de Atacama: USD 250 – 350 (4D/3N)
(Approximate prices, may vary depending on season and services)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do you stay at Laguna Colorada?
Between 30 and 45 minutes, enough time to visit viewpoints and observe flamingos.
Can I visit without a tour?
No. Access is only with authorized tours.
Is it dangerous due to the altitude?
It can cause altitude sickness. It is recommended to acclimatize in Uyuni or San Pedro before the tour.
Are there restrooms?
Yes, basic and eco-friendly ones are available near the lagoon.
Is there cell phone service?
No. It is a completely remote area.
Is it suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, but with precautions due to the altitude and cold.
✅ Final recommendations for your visit: Layered thermal clothing
- Windproof jacket
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water and energy snacks
- Walk slowly and breathe deeply
- Strictly respect environmental regulations
✨ Why visit Laguna Colorada?
Because it is one of the most surreal and authentic landscapes in Bolivia. A place where nature defies logic: red waters, pink flamingos, and volcanoes in absolute silence.
Laguna Colorada is a natural jewel of the Bolivian highlands and an essential stop on any trip to the Salar de Uyuni. Its adapted flora, unique fauna, extreme climate, and breathtaking beauty make it an experience that transcends mere tourism and becomes an unforgettable memory.
