Overview
Laguna Roja is a stunning high-altitude lagoon located near the Cerro Rico mountain in Potosí, Bolivia. Known for its vibrant red color due to the presence of algae and minerals, it offers a unique and picturesque landscape. The lagoon is a popular spot for photography and offers a serene escape from the bustling city.
Natural significance for its unique red color and high-altitude landscape.
Location
Address
Coordinates: -19.0577203010965, -69.25361734534934
Neighborhood: Cerro Rico
Coordinates
-19.057720, -69.253617
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning 8-10am
fewer crowds, better lighting, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild with occasional rain
- • vibrant colors
- • garden tours
summer
warm and pleasant
- • extended hours until 7pm
- • night tours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
- • harvest displays
winter
cold, possible frost
- • holiday decorations
- • winter illuminations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online 2 weeks in advance for best prices
- Photography allowed in all areas
- Casual dress code recommended
- Cash needed for parking and some vendors
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate - involves walking and stairs
- • steep stairs
- • uneven surfaces
- • no shade in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid station at main entrance
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards, mobile payments
Currency
Bolivian Boliviano
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable clothing, comfortable, modest clothing, comfortable walking shoes required, flip-flops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2-4 weeks recommended
- • official website for best prices
- • full refund 48 hours before
- • express passes available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Official Attraction App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive GPS map, Audio guide in 12 languages, AR historical reconstructions, Real-time queue status, Digital ticket storage
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Main plaza
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Potosí International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Traditional family gathering spot for generations
Historical Significance: Site of important historical events
Insider Tips
- Free cultural performance every Friday at 5pm
- Best local snacks from vendor at north gate
- Guards may allow special access if asked politely
- Local artists sell work on weekends near back entrance
Local Recommendations
- • Try the famous tea at the small stall behind south gate
- • Ask for guide Kumar who speaks 5 languages
- • Staff canteen serves authentic local food at great prices
- • Early morning joggers can enter free before 7am
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Quechua
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Lagoon viewpoint
Best Time: Golden hour (6-7pm)
Tips: Shoot from a low angle to capture the full view
Result: Dramatic silhouette against sunset
Lagoon shoreline
Best Time: Early morning for reflections
Tips: Get close to water level
Result: Perfect mirror reflection
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Casa de la Moneda
Distance: 500 meters
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Museum
Cerro Rico
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 15,420 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online to save 20% and skip lines"
- "Best photos from the east tower at sunset"
- "Free guided tour at 10am is excellent"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
ATV Adventure, Interactive Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote and Lunch
Full Day Tour to Piedras Rojas, Altiplanic Lagoons and Chaxa
Full Day Rainforest Tour with Tasting and Swimming Time ツ
Playa del Carmen Shopping Tour Fifth Avenue and Mamitas Beach Club
Your Romantic Dinner in Cancun, includes national open bar and live music
Coba and Tulum, cenote swim and buffet lunch
Barranco de las Vacas, caves & village by Sky Rebels local guides
Breathtaking experience driving a speedboat in Cancun with Snorkeling included
Ultimate 5x1 Combo with ATV, Ziplines, Cenote & Reef Snorkeling
Tulum and Cenote Casa Tortuga Day Trip
Kaan Luum & Cenotes Mayan Traditions
Selvatica Adventure Park ATV and Ziplines in Cancun and Riviera Maya
La Gomera Day Trip from Tenerife
Mud Madness at Selvatica
ATV, Ziplining & Cenote Tour, Transportation & Tequila Tasting
Cancun zip lines and Cenote
5 Days Mayan Heritage History Tour
Full-Day Tulum Expedition and Rio Secreto Adventure
Chichen Itza Deluxe Valladolid and 2 Cenotes
The best option to Visit Tulum, Coba, a Cenote and Playa del Carmen for the less
El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes National Park Day Trip
Isla Mujeres Catamaran Sailing Experience with Lunch & Open Bar
Chichen-Itza Mayan Temples, Cenote and Valladolid with Lunch
Full-Day Coba Tulum Cenote and Playa del Carmen Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
1
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
15,420
Adult Entry
$10