Flamingos of the Andean Altiplano

The Altiplano contains salt flats and mineral-rich lagoons at extreme elevations across Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Peru. These wetlands support three South American species: Andean, James’s, and Chilean flamingos.

Laguna Colorada in Bolivia is the region’s most famous destination. Chile’s Salar de Atacama, including lagoons such as Chaxa, offers another established viewing area from San Pedro de Atacama. Flamingos also move among lesser-known high lakes as water, ice, food, and breeding conditions change.

Travel here demands preparation. High altitude can cause serious illness, temperatures can fall rapidly, and many routes require a capable vehicle and experienced operator. Visitors should acclimatize appropriately, carry water and warm layers, and stay on reserve routes.

The shorelines may look empty and durable but can contain fragile microbial and nesting habitat. Never walk toward flamingos for a photograph.

Read the detailed Laguna Colorada guide and our South America overview. The Laguna Colorada Ramsar documentation explains the wetland’s international importance.