Laguna Verde to Laguna Blanca Circuit
High-altitude lake circuit through volcanic badlands
At 14,100 feet, Laguna Verde’s emerald waters shimmer beneath Volcán Licancabur while mineral-rich winds whip across the altiplano. This challenging circuit connects Bolivia’s most photographed colored lakes through the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, threading between geysers at Sol de Mañana and the blood-red waters of Laguna Colorada. The route follows rough 4×4 tracks across volcanic terrain, with the notorious river crossing at Río Grande separating casual tourists from serious overlanders.
Expert-level difficulty demands modified 4WD with rock protection, spare fuel for 200+ miles, and altitude sickness preparation. October through March offers the best conditions, though afternoon storms can trap vehicles in flash floods. No permits required, but fuel availability ends at Quetena Chico. The payoff: witnessing flamingo colonies against otherworldly backdrops that’ll redefine your understanding of Bolivia’s raw beauty. Have a dirty day.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | High Altitude, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 145 mi / 233.4 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 14100 ft |
| Best season | October-March |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Uyuni, Potosí |
| Land manager | SERNAP - Eduardo Avaroa Reserve |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| 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
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