Sunday 8th October 2006: BOLIVIAN SALT FLATS TOUR: Laguna Colorada

Laguna Colorada (4,600 meters above sea level) covers an area of 60 km2. The rich red colouration is caused by the algae and plankton which thrive in the lake, the shoreline is edged with brilliant white deposits of sodium, magnesium, borax and gypsum and the lagoon is many flamingos, three species of which breed here. The lake changes colour throughout the day as the sun activates the plankton and algae causing the lagoon to glow brilliant red.

This lagoon was the last stop of the day and it was here that we spent in the night in very modest accommodation, i.e. dormitories and no showers, hot water or heating! Whilst we were waiting for dinner to be made we walked to the lookout to take these pictures. The relatively short walk to the lookout took one hour (there and back) and by the time we arrived back at the hostel we were feeling very sick and exhausted due to the incredible altitude.

The night spent by the lagoon was the coldest we have ever experienced! Even with all our clothes on, in sleeping bags with blankets, it was still cold! During winter, Laguna Colorada is the coldest place on earth after Siberia!

Laguna Colorada

Sunset at Laguna Colorada