Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia: A Comprehensive Guide

Laguna Hedionda Important Details:

• Address: Laguna Hedionda, Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, Bolivia (Google Maps)
• Hours of operation: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Cost of entrance: To enter Laguna Hedionda, you will need to pay the entrance fee for the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, which is currently 150 bolivianos (around $22 USD) for foreign visitors.
• Recommended time to spend at Laguna Hedionda: It’s recommended to spend at least a few hours at Laguna Hedionda to fully appreciate its natural beauty and observe the local wildlife.
• How to arrive at Laguna Hedionda: The most common way to arrive at Laguna Hedionda is by taking a guided tour from either Uyuni, Bolivia, or San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. You can also drive yourself, provided you have a 4×4 vehicle.
• Distance from Uyuni, Bolivia: Laguna Hedionda is located about 115 kilometers (71 miles) south of Uyuni. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours.
• Distance from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: Laguna Hedionda is located about 200 kilometers (124 miles) northeast of San Pedro de Atacama. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours.
• Ideal month(s) to visit Laguna Hedionda: The best time to visit Laguna Hedionda is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During dry seasons the weather is generally sunny and clear, with minimal rainfall. Note that temperatures can be very cold, particularly at night.

Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia is a stunning lake located in Bolivia’s Potosi Department, near the Salar de Uyuni. It’s a popular destination for travelers on a tour from Salar de Uyuni to Atacama. Laguna Hedionda has colorful waters and unique wildlife. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit and make the most of your time at Laguna Hedionda!

Getting to Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia:

The easiest way to get to Laguna Hedionda is to fly into El Alto International Airport in La Paz. From there, you can take a domestic flight or a bus to the city of Uyuni, which serves as a gateway to the Salar de Uyuni for guided tours. Once in Uyuni, travelers can hire a tour operator to visit Laguna Hedionda and the surrounding areas. This is typically a stop on the popular 3 day, 2 night tour from Uyuni to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. Another option is to rent a car and drive yourself, but the roads can be rough and difficult to navigate. There are no Ubers in Uyuni, Bolivia.

Wildlife at Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia:

Laguna Hedionda is a haven for wildlife. It has a diverse range of species living in and around the lake. One of the most iconic animals you’re likely to encounter is the flamingo. There are three species of flamingo that can be found in Bolivia, including the Andean, Chilean, and James’ flamingos. All three can be seen at Laguna Hedionda. These flamingos have vivid pink feathers and distinctive curved bills. The flamingos feed on small crustaceans and algae in the lake, and are perfect for photos as they wade through the shallow waters in search of food.

Another animal you may encounter at Laguna Hedionda is the vicuña, which is a popular South American camelid. Vicuñas are native to the Andes and are known for their soft, fine wool and goofy running form. Vicuñas are often seen grazing on the tough, sparse vegetation in the area.

Other animals you might encounter at Laguna Hedionda include: Andean foxes, Andean geese, waterfowl (such as ducks and coots), and various species of lizard and amphibians.

Things to Do at Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia:

• Wildlife Viewing: Laguna Hedionda is home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, vicuñas, and Andean foxes.
• Photography: The landscapes around Laguna Hedionda are some of the most picturesque in Bolivia. Sunrises and sunsets over the lake make for beautiful photos, as do the dramatic rock formations and mountain ranges.
• Relaxation / Chill Time: Laguna Hedionda is a popular spot for travlers on the tour from Uyuni to San Pedro de Atacama to stop for lunch, have a picnic, or simply rest and get some warm sun.

Accommodation Options near Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia:

There are a few accommodation options near Laguna Hedionda:

• Hostal Tayka de Sal: This is a budget-friendly hostel is located near Salar de Uyuni. It has simple but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms.
• Hotel de Sal Luna Salada: This is a more luxurious experience. This unique hotel is built entirely out of salt and offers beautiful views of the Salar de Uyuni and the surrounding mountains.
• Hostal del Lago: This hostel offers great views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Laguna Hedionda Frequently Asked Questions:

Is it safe to travel to Laguna Hedionda in Bolivia?

Yes, Laguna Hedionda is considered safe. It’s recommended to travel with a guide or join a tour group for added safety.

What’s the best time of year to visit Laguna Hedionda?

The best time to visit Laguna Hedionda is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, and the wildlife is abundant.