Ollagüe Volcano

Ollagüe Volcano is a massive active stratovolcano situated on the border between Bolivia and Chile within the Central Andes mountain range. Standing at an elevation of 5,868 meters above sea level, it is a prominent feature of the high-altitude Altiplano landscape and the surrounding volcanic arc. While there are no confirmed historical eruptions in modern times, the volcano displays constant fumarolic activity on its southern flank, with steam vents visible from great distances. The slopes of the volcano are historically significant for hosting some of the highest sulfur mines in the world, some reaching elevations above 5,500 meters. The region is characterized by extreme desert conditions, low oxygen levels, and intense solar radiation, making any human activity there exceptionally difficult and physically demanding. Today, Ollagüe serves as an important site for geological monitoring and a challenging destination for high-altitude mountaineering enthusiasts. Its colorful mineral deposits and proximity to vast salt pans create a landscape of stark and alien beauty.

History & landmarks

Cementerio de Trenes

A surreal open-air museum near Uyuni where dozens of rusted 19th-century British steam locomotives are left to decay.

Torre de la Compañía de Jesús

This ornate stone bell tower is the only remnant of a Jesuit church and one of the most important symbols of the silver city of Potosí.

Catedral de Potosí

An imposing neoclassical cathedral in the historic center of the old mining town of Potosí, whose towers dominate the cityscape.

Iglesia de San Lorenzo de Carangas

One of Potosí's most masterful churches, featuring an incredibly detailed carved stone portal facade in the mestizo baroque style.

Nature

Madre de Dios River

The Madre de Dios River is an important river in the Amazon basin that flows through Peru and northern Bolivia.

More places

Eduardo Avaroa Reserve

Stunning high-altitude reserve known for its colorful lagoons, flamingos, and surreal volcanic landscapes.

Lípez Quinoa Fields

On the harsh high plateau of southwestern Bolivia, indigenous farmers cultivate royal quinoa, a unique pseudocereal.

Cerro Guayaques

Cerro Guayaques is a volcanic complex on the border with Chile, whose lava flows shape the rugged desert landscape.

Cerro Zapaleri

Cerro Zapaleri is a volcanic mountain that marks the tripoint between Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Cordillera de Lípez

The Cordillera de Lípez in southwestern Bolivia offers a rugged, extreme volcanic landscape with unique colored lagoons.

Church of San Lorenzo de Carangas

A beautiful church in Potosí, famous for its elaborately carved stone portal in the Mestizo Baroque style.

Casa de la Moneda

The old royal mint in Potosí, where coins were minted for the Spanish Empire from the silver of Cerro Rico during the colonial period.

Cathedral of Potosí

The most important church in the center of Potosí, reflecting the wealth of the silver city with its magnificent neoclassical architecture.