Flamingos near Salar de Uyuni
Flamingos are usually associated with warm tropical places, but this exotic-looking birds adapt well to both warm and cold climates.
In Bolivia they can be found in the region near Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flats. This vast expanse of shimmering white salt is with no doubt one of South America’s most spectacular sights, but there is so much more to see. If you take a 2 or 3 day trip you can also visit the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. This beautiful Reserve is a high-altitude desert plain of smoking volcanoes, surreal rock formations, boiling mud and bizarre coloured lagoons surrounded by Andes mountains. Here you will be rewarded with some “unexpected birdwatching”.
It’s quite surprising indeed that despite being one of the most inhospitable places on the planet, it is home to some great wildlife watching opportunities. Yes, this otherworldly and harsh terrain has a chain of pristine lagoons inhabitated by flamingos. These birds are drawn to these lagoons in search of food.
Three of the world’s six species of flamingo can be found here: the Chilean, Andean and the James’ Flamingo. These flamingos live in highland salt lakes of the Andes mountains from 2,500 to 4,950 m above sea level.
Flamingos are strong birds, they have found a way to survive the cold winds and temperatures below zero. They’ve got a tough leg skin that help them survive harsh salty waters.
Fun facts about flamingos:
- Flamingo comes from the Spanish word “flamenco”, which means fire flame. They often perform their synchronised mating displays together. Flamingos dance to impress females and when they succeed in finding a partner they will mate for life.
- Flamingos are flamboyant, so no surprise a flock is called flamboyance.
- Flamingos are naturally white; they get their pink color from the red algae that stains their feathers.
- Flamingos are monogamous, and mom and dad are team players. Both help to build the nest and incubate the egg. The parents identify their chick by its voice.
- When resting, flamingos stand on one leg. A theory suggest that the one-legged stance may help them to stay warm and conserve energy.
- They are fine in both warm and cold areas.
- Watching flamingos take off is fun 😉 Yes, flamingos can fly. They migrate with the seasons, if flamingos are traveling long distances, they often go by night, which is why many of us never see them flying.
When is the best time to spot flamingos?
All year round. However, in early November, the salar region becomes their breeding ground, so during the rainy/summer season (December through April) you will be able to see huge flocks of flamingos. Rain also increases the chance of seeing Salar de Uyuni flooded and transformed into the world’s largest mirror.
Laguna Colorada in particular is an incredible place to spot flamingos, it attracts hundreds of them due to its abundant supply of plankton. The lagoon is one of Bolivia’s most incredible wonders. The setting is jaw-dropping: a blood-red lagoon against a Dali-esque landscape, filled with hundreds of pink flamingos.
👀These beautiful birds are just one of the many reasons Salar de Uyuni is so unique and a must-see in South America.
The laguna Colorada or Red Coloured lagoon is s shallow salt lake (aprox. 1 m deep) located near the border of Chile at 3653m (11,985ft). The red colour comes from the algae and rich minerals in the water. Folklore suggests the water is actually the blood of the gods.
If you enjoy photography you will be able to take spectacular shots at this place, thanks to the deep contrast of the deep red color of the lake with the clear blue sky and the white snow-topped mountains.
The Eduardo Avaroa Reserve is part of the 2 or more day salar de Uyuni trip.
