Laguna Colorada – Potosí Department – Bolivia

Person overlooking red lagoon and mountain landscape.

South Lipez and Laguna Colorada in Bolivia are one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever witnessed—a stark reminder of how astonishing our planet can be. From the moment I arrived, I was in awe, my skin tingling with goosebumps the entire trip. I was lucky enough to visit twice in 2023. The first time, I joined a standard 4x4 tour to scout the terrain, soaking in the endless white expanse and surreal reflections. But the second trip, I rode in on my motorcycle, eager to explore deeper, only for the bike to break down in the middle of nowhere. Stranded for 24 hours without water, I learned just how unforgiving this place could be. Though that’s a story for another time!

Laguna Colorada gets its name from the reddish color of its waters, caused by sediments and algae. The lake is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including volcanic peaks, snow-capped mountains, and geothermal springs. It is also home to several bird species, including the iconic flamingos. Visitors can witness the vibrant colors of the lake and its feathered inhabitants while enjoying the serene and otherworldly atmosphere of the high-altitude Andean plateau.

About San Pablo de Lipez

Nestled in Bolivia’s surreal southern highlands, San Pablo de Lipez captivates with its otherworldly landscapes—volcanic peaks, glacial lagoons, and the haunting Salvador Dalí Desert. A remote jewel in Potosí’s crown, it whispers of solitude and raw beauty, where the earth’s palette shifts from cobalt lakes to rust-red plains. Here, adventure and stillness intertwine beneath an endless Andean sky.