Lagunas Route (Ruta de las Lagunas)
High-altitude lake circuit through Bolivia's Altiplano
The Lagunas Route cuts across Bolivia’s southwestern Altiplano, linking a chain of mineral-rich lakes that paint the landscape in impossible colors — emerald green, blood red, and electric blue. Starting from Uyuni, this remote circuit winds through Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, passing Laguna Colorada with its crimson waters and thousands of flamingos, then climbing to Laguna Verde beneath the smoking cone of Volcán Licancabur. The route demands respect at altitude, with washboard tracks and sudden weather changes that can strand vehicles for days.
This is serious high-altitude overlanding — expect moderate to difficult conditions with washboard, sand, and rocky sections that punish suspension and tires. A reliable 4WD with good ground clearance is essential, plus cold-weather gear and extra fuel for the 300+ kilometer loop. Best tackled April through October when roads are passable, though nights drop below freezing year-round. The payoff is witnessing one of South America’s most surreal landscapes, where geology creates art and every sunrise paints the mountains in different shades of impossible.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 186 mi / 299 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 15420 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Uyuni, Bolivia |
| Land manager | Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or Land Cruiser handle the Lagunas Route without modifications?
A stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle like a Tacoma or 80-series Land Cruiser can manage this route, but aired-down tires and a reliable recovery kit are non-negotiable. The surface mixes sand, volcanic rock, and soft salt flat edges — ground clearance matters more than lockers on most sections. Skid plates are strongly advised given the rocky stretches near the reserve's southern end.
Is the Lagunas Route passable year-round or does it close seasonally?
Stick to April through October — the dry season. The wet season (November–March) turns sections of the route into impassable mud and floods lower crossings, and the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve may restrict access entirely. Even in the dry season, expect frozen ground and ice on the track in early mornings at 15,000+ feet.
Do you need a permit to drive the Lagunas Route and what does it cost?
Yes, entry into Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve requires a permit — currently around 150 Bolivianos (~$22 USD) for foreign nationals, paid at the reserve entrance. Have cash in bolivianos; there are no card readers out here. Rangers do check, so don't skip it.
What's the hardest section of the route and what should I expect?
The terrain around Laguna Colorada and the southwestern volcanic fields is the most demanding — deep sand, loose rock, and zero track markings mean route-finding is on you. At 14,000–15,400 feet, your engine loses 30–40% power, so don't expect your rig to perform like it does at sea level. If you've never driven at altitude, budget extra time and watch your temps.
Is there any fuel or water available on the route, or do I need to carry everything?
Carry everything. There is no fuel between Uyuni and the small outpost at Villa Mar or San Pedro de Atacama (Chile) if you're crossing the border — plan for 300+ miles of reserve. Water sources exist at some lagoons but require treatment; most overlanders carry 10–15 liters per person minimum. Top off fuel completely in Uyuni before departure.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
Log in to contribute a GPX track.