Snorkeling in Bolivia
Including Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde. On the map.
The vibe
Clear waters reveal a vibrant underwater world of colorful fish and rocky reefs. The warm months from November to March bring the best visibility and marine life. Snorkelers usually explore the sites independently, with a few local guides available for safety.
Laguna Colorada
Potosí
Dimitry B. from London / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
This high-altitude salt lake is famous for its vibrant red waters and large populations of Andean flamingos. While the water is shallow and cold, it offers a unique opportunity to observe rare birdlife and unique aquatic microbial structures in a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Access. Accessible via 4x4 tours from Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama; snorkeling is non-traditional and requires specialized gear for the extreme cold and altitude.
Notes. Extreme altitude (over 4,000m) and freezing temperatures; snorkeling is limited to shallow edges and requires extreme caution.
Laguna Verde
Potosí
Cristian Ordenes / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Located at the base of the Licancabur volcano, this mineral-rich lake features striking turquoise waters. The site is a bucket-list destination for travelers exploring the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, offering a rare look at high-altitude aquatic ecosystems.
Access. Part of the standard multi-day Altiplano circuit tours starting from Uyuni; snorkeling is an niche activity for adventurous travelers.
Notes. The water is highly mineralized and extremely cold; snorkeling is only recommended for very short, shallow-water observation.