South Lipez: wonder of the Altiplano

Nestling on the edge of Bolivia, South Lipez is a land of contrasts, where the Salar Uyuni sparkles and the borders between Argentina and the Chilean Atacama Desert blur. This region, perched at an altitude of over 4,200 metres, is a veritable sanctuary of nature, offering dreamlike landscapes that awaken the desire for adventure.

Laguna Verde and the Licancabur volcano (Credit: V. Miettinen)

The 4×4 journey across the Altiplano reveals a mosaic of grandiose panoramas: from the ochre hues of the Andean peaks to colourful lagoons such as Laguna Blanca, Laguna Verde and the famous Laguna Colorada, rich in minerals and home to thousands of pink flamingos. These lagoons, shaped by intense volcanic activity, are the reflection of a living land, where geysers, such as those at Sol de la Mañana, and hot springs, such as those at Laguna Polques, bear witness to the power of the Earth.

South Lipez is also rich in historical and cultural relics. The Licancabur volcano, dominating the region, is a silent witness to pre-Columbian civilisations, with ruins on its summit dating back over 500 years. Not far away, Sairecabur, another Andean giant, is surrounded by volcanoes such as Curiquinca and Escalante. These mountains, sacred to the indigenous peoples, are the cradle of ancestral legends and traditions.

The Laguna Colorada (Credit: Luca Galuzzi)

Endemic flora and fauna find refuge in this region, from colonies of James’s flamingos to herds of llamas, evolving in the Eduardo Avaroa National Andean Wildlife Reserve, a preserved and unique ecosystem.

Exploring South Lipez is an invitation to discover, where each diversions offers a new perspective on the wild beauty of Bolivia, celebrating the harmony between man and nature.