Laguna Colorada Bolivia 1-Day Tour | Altiplano Lagoons and Andean Wildlife
Description
🏞️ Description
The Laguna Colorada 1-Day Tour is an exciting and thrilling expedition, designed for those looking to admire the most extraordinary landscapes of the Bolivian Altiplano in a short amount of time. A 4×4 vehicle tour will take you to high Andean lagoons teeming with flamingos, volcanic formations, high-altitude deserts, and the iconic Laguna Colorada, a natural mirror tinged red by microorganisms and minerals that captivates any traveler.
This tour begins and ends in Uyuni, making it a perfect option to complement your adventure through the Salar de Uyuni.
Itinerary
🧭 Laguna Colorada Tour Itinerary
Lagunas del Altiplano Menor + Siloli Desert + Laguna Colorada
We’ll start the adventure very early, with pickup from your accommodation in Uyuni. Aboard a comfortable 4×4 vehicle (shared group of up to 6 people), we’ll head to the highlands to explore:
- Laguna Cañapa: home to pink flamingos and turquoise waters surrounded by mountains.
- Laguna Hedionda: known for its sulfurous aroma, but famous for its large presence of Andean birds.
- Laguna Honda and Chiarkota: tranquil landscapes surrounded by native flora and views of the pristine highlands.
Later, we’ll delve into the majestic Siloli Desert, a setting that seems like something out of this world, where you can contemplate the unique and photogenic Stone Tree, a natural formation carved by the wind and time.
Finally, we’ll arrive at the long-awaited Laguna Colorada, declared a Ramsar site for its ecological importance. Its reddish waters, combined with the whiteness of borax and the pink of the Andean flamingos, make it one of the most incredible landscapes of the Bolivian Altiplano. After enjoying this natural spectacle, we’ll return to Uyuni.
Includes
✅ Includes
Pickup from your hotel in Uyuni: The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or a meeting point in downtown Uyuni, ensuring a smooth start to your experience.
Shared 4×4 Vehicle Transportation (maximum 6 people): Travel comfortably in an all-terrain vehicle, designed for safety and comfort while exploring the stunning salt flats and its surroundings. The group will be small (maximum six passengers), ensuring a more personalized experience.
Spanish-Speaking Driver-Guide: During the tour, you will have an experienced local driver who will also serve as your guide and share information about the geography, wildlife, history, and culture of the Salar de Uyuni.
Full Meals:
Traditional lunch with local products and a meal suitable for high-altitude travel.
A light snack to maintain your energy throughout the tour and ensure you fully enjoy the adventure.
Logistical coordination and pre-tour assistance: We take care of the logistical details of the tour, providing assistance before, during, and after your experience, so you can just worry about enjoying yourself.
Not included
❌ Not included
Entrance to the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve: Entrance to this impressive reserve, home to species such as flamingos and vicuñas, is not included in the tour price. The fee is payable directly on-site (approximately 150 Bs).
Entrance to other parks or sites: Some additional sites along the route, such as Incahuasi Island or the hot springs, require an entrance fee, payable directly at each access point.
Medical or travel insurance: Medical coverage and personal insurance are not included. It is recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers emergencies and evacuations due to altitude, especially in remote areas.
Bottled water and personal expenses: The tour does not include bottled water or other personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional drinks, or purchases during the tour.
Recommendations
What will you bring on the tour?
Comfortable, thermal clothing: Temperatures in the Bolivian Altiplano can vary dramatically, especially between day and night. It is recommended to dress in layers, with thermal clothing, a windbreaker, and comfortable hiking pants.
Hat and gloves for the cold: Nights and early mornings can be extremely cold, so a hat and gloves are essential to maintain body heat.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun’s reflection on the salt flats can be very intense, even on cloudy days. Protect your eyes with quality sunglasses and use sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid sunburn.
Camera: The Salar de Uyuni offers stunning scenery and many opportunities for unique photos, especially at sunrise and during the “mirror effect.” Don’t forget your camera and spare batteries.
Personal hygiene items: Bring toilet paper, a towel, and other personal hygiene items, as not all points along the route have adequate facilities.
Drinking water: The air in the mountains is very dry, so staying hydrated is essential. Bring at least one liter of water per person, especially on long trips.
Passport or ID: Make sure you have a valid passport or ID, as it is required to check in at accommodations and at some checkpoints.
Cash (at least Bs. 250): To cover additional expenses such as entry fees to certain sites, souvenir purchases, or restroom use along the way, it is recommended to carry money in bolivianos (Bs.). Some places do not accept cards, so cash is essential.
[tigrado title = “Frequently Asked Questions”]
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
📍 Where is Laguna Colorada located?
Laguna Colorada is located within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, in southwestern Bolivia, near the border with Chile. It is located at over 4,200 meters above sea level and is part of the classic route through the lagoons of the southern Bolivian highlands.
🌡️ What is the climate and altitude of Laguna Colorada?
The climate is cold and dry, especially at night and in the early morning. During the day, temperatures can range from 5°C to 18°C. The altitude exceeds 4,200 meters above sea level, so acclimatization is recommended before this excursion.
🛏️ Is there accommodation at Laguna Colorada?
There is no overnight stay at Laguna Colorada on this day trip. The tour is a round trip on the same day, returning to Uyuni. If you wish to stay nearby, you must opt for a two-day or longer tour that includes overnight stays in local lodges.
📅 What days does the tour run and how far in advance should I book?
The tour operates every day of the year, subject to availability. It’s recommended to book at least two days in advance to secure your spot, especially if you’d like a private tour or during peak season (June-August and December-January).