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Laguna Colorada
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Lake
Laguna Colorada, or the Red Lagoon, is a shallow salt lake located at an altitude of 4,278 meters within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve in Bolivia. The lake is famous for its striking blood-red water, a coloration caused by red sediments and the pigmentation of specific algae species that thrive in the mineral-rich environment. This vivid red is contrasted by large, brilliant white pools of borax deposits scattered across the lake's surface. Laguna Colorada is a vital RAMSAR-designated wetland, serving as the primary breeding ground for the rare James's flamingo, which can be seen in the thousands alongside Andean and Chilean flamingos. The surrounding landscape consists of desert highlands and volcanic peaks, creating a harsh but spectacular environment. Due to its unique biological and geological features, it is considered one of the most important ecological sites in the Altiplano and a highlight of the Andean high-plateau circuit.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Red Lake - Belvedere · Mirador de Flamencos · Laguna Colorada
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 11 | 8 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this iconic red salt lake requires embarking on a multi-day 4x4 expedition through the southwestern Bolivian desert, usually originating from the town of Uyuni or across the Chilean border.
Best season
The dry winter months offer the most reliable road conditions and clear skies, while the flamingos are generally present year-round, making any time suitable if you are prepared for the extreme cold.
Terrain & paths
The area is characterized by a harsh, wind-swept altiplano landscape with sandy, uneven dirt tracks and soft, muddy shorelines around the shallow waters that must be navigated carefully.
What to bring
Warm, windproof clothing is absolutely essential due to the biting winds at this elevation, while binoculars are highly recommended for observing the resident James's flamingos without disturbing them.
Parking
Drivers typically park their off-road vehicles in designated dirt pull-offs near the established viewpoints, ensuring they stay well clear of the fragile shoreline and the bird habitats.
Safety
Freezing temperatures, intense high-altitude ultraviolet radiation, and the risk of severe altitude sickness are the primary hazards; slow movements and adequate hydration are crucial for a safe visit.
Time needed
Most guided tours allocate about an hour at this spectacular location, providing enough time to walk along the viewing paths, photograph the animated red waters, and observe the flamingo flocks.
Geography
Facts
- Laguna Colorada covers an area of roughly 60 square kilometers.
- The lake is located at 22°11′55″S and 67°46′52″W.
- It is part of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve.
- The lake is designated as a Wetland of International Importance.
- The reddish hue varies depending on light and wind conditions.
- It is surrounded by the Andes' volcanic chain on all sides.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Laguna Colorada (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Laguna Colorada red?
The color comes from special algae species and sediments.
Can you see flamingos there?
Yes, it is an important nesting site for James, Andean, and Chilean flamingos.
Where is the lagoon located?
In the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve in southwestern Bolivia.
What is the climate like there?
Very windy and often extremely below freezing at night.
Are there accommodations nearby?
There are simple basic hostels available for tour groups.
Laguna Colorada: where is it located?
Laguna Colorada is located in Bolivia.
Laguna Colorada: what is there to see?
Highlights include Red Lake - Belvedere, Mirador de Flamencos, Laguna Colorada.
Laguna Colorada: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Laguna Colorada: why is it worth visiting?
Laguna Colorada, or the Red Lagoon, is a shallow salt lake located at an altitude of 4,278 meters within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve in Bolivia.
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