A red lagoon and lots of flamingoes

Trip Start Jan 12, 2009
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Trip End Dec 31, 2010


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Flag of Bolivia  , Potosí,
Saturday, July 10, 2010

The bolivian altiplano is dotted with the most amazing lagoons shimmering in all colors. There is a green lagoon, a white lagoon and even a red lagoon. So after the green lagoon - laguna verde - we head on to the red lagoon, laguna colorada. Plankton makes the water shimmer in an amazing red while flamingoes feed in the shallow water. Near the shores of the peninsula warm thermal water enters the lagoon and the birds seem to enjoy a nice footbath in the morning.

Only a month ago a truck has spilled his load of diesel in this pristine environment. An industrial plant isnīt too far away near the customs point - right in the natural reserve. Nature seldom wins when it is a decision between making money and protecting the environment.

There are less flamingoes around than last time when I was here
into the light
into the light
. It might just be due to the season, but who knows...

Until here the gravel roads were in an okay condition, making it possible for any robust vehicle with high clearence to pass. We have been warned of what lies ahead: No clear track, lots of traces somehow making their way through the valleys. But we are confident we will make it to the blinding white plains of worldīs biggest salt lake, salar de Uyuni.

German version will follow.
Deutsche Version folgt bei Gelegenheit.
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