Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve

The Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve is a protected area located in the southwest of Bolivia. With its mighty Andean landscapes, wealth of animals and plants, and tourist attractions, it’s a preferred destination, not to be missed if you’re visiting the country.

Introduction to the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve

Geographical Location

Located in the southern part of the Potosí department, specifically in the Sud Lípez province and the San Pablo de Lípez municipality. Its geographical location is defined by the coordinates: 21°59’45.8″ South latitude; 68°03’0.42″ West longitude.

The reserve stretches across a territory that encompasses altitudes ranging from 4,000 meters above sea level (masl) to 6,000 masl. This wide altitudinal range contributes to the diversity of ecosystems and landscapes found in the area, from plains to towering Andean mountains.

The geographical location of the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, in the border area with Argentina and Chile, provides it with a unique and strategic value for conserving the biodiversity of the Andean region and its significance as a protected area for the preservation of endemic and endangered species. Its scenic beauty and the variety of flora and fauna it harbors make it a destination of great interest for ecotourism and adventure amidst the splendid Andean landscapes.

History of the Andean Fauna Reserve

Established on December 13, 1973, under the Spanish name "Reserva Nacional de fauna andina Eduardo Avaroa", through Supreme Decree No. 11239, initially aimed at protecting the beautiful Laguna Colorada. Over time, the importance of conserving this unique area became evident, leading to the expansion of the reserve’s boundaries through Supreme Decrees 18313 of 05/14/1981 and 18431 of 06/26/1981. Since then, it has been a bastion for preserving valuable biodiversity and the impressive Andean landscapes in the southwest of Bolivia, in the Sud Lípez province of the Potosí department. The reserve’s name pays tribute to Eduardo Avaroa, a prominent hero of the War of the Pacific, whose legacy blends with the natural richness of this Bolivian treasure.

Objectives of the Reserve

Its establishment objectives primarily include the preservation and conservation of the diversity of birds and typical species of the Andean region, which are classified as endangered. Among these species, flamingos, guanacos, vicuñas, and ostriches or rheas stand out. These unique and significant creatures for the Andean ecosystem find a secure refuge for their survival and protection within the protected area.

Classified as a National Wildlife Reserve, it is designated as a special area for the conservation and protection of native animal life. In this role, it seeks to balance respect and promotion of wildlife with sustainable and responsible tourism development, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while ensuring the long-term preservation of species and their habitats.

Through its categorization and management as an Andean Fauna National Reserve, the importance and ecological value of this place are recognized, along with the responsibility to protect it for present and future generations. It represents a collective effort to maintain Bolivia’s biological wealth and conserve the unique natural heritage offered by this special Andean corner.

Protected Area

According to the General Protection Plan of the reserve, the area spans 714,745 hectares. However, based on the digital Geographic Information System (GIS) records, the registered area is 680,644.4 hectares.

Geography

Physiography

Situated in the Volcanic Western Cordillera, a geographic region characterized by the presence of extensive plateaus formed by igneous rocks or ignimbrites, as well as volcanic cones. This volcanic geography grants it a unique and spectacular landscape beauty.

The altitudinal range it possesses is wide, ranging between 4,300 and 6,014 meters above sea level (masl). This variation in altitude contributes to the diversity of landscapes and ecosystems found in the area.

Its physiography presents a wide variety of landforms, including hills, plains, mountains, foothills, plateaus, and ridges. Each of these geographical features contributes to the richness and complexity, providing diverse habitats for the flora and fauna that inhabit it.

Hills and ridges offer panoramic views and rugged settings, while plains and plateaus allow for the appreciation of more extensive and open landscapes. The volcanic cones serve as visible reminders of the geological history of the area and add a distinctive element to the landscape.

Hydrography

It is located within the endorheic or closed macro-basin of the high plateau. This means that it is part of a wide hydrographic basin where river waters do not flow into the sea, but accumulate in lagoons, salt flats, or evaporate within the high plateau itself.

Within this macro-region, the reserve harbors diverse hydrographic basins, including those of the Chanchullerito, Cienega Grande, Coruto Lagoon, and Colorada Lagoon rivers.

1. Chanchullerito River: one of the main bodies of water in the reserve, flowing into the Colorada Lagoon. Its course feeds this lagoon and contributes to its beauty and uniqueness, especially due to the minerals present in the water that give it a distinctive reddish color.
2. Cienega Grande: another important basin within the boundaries established by the Bolivian government, with an extensive area of wetlands that contribute to maintaining biodiversity and wildlife in the area.
3. Coruto Lagoon: forming a valuable habitat for various bird species and aquatic life.
4. Colorada Lagoon: This is one of the most emblematic and famous lagoons. Known for its stunning red color due to algae and sediment pigments, it is a highly attractive place for visitors and a home to significant populations of flamingos.

These hydrographic basins are essential for the ecological balance of the region, providing water and habitats for various species of flora and fauna. The lagoons and wetlands are of great value to migratory birds, which find temporary refuge in these places during their migratory journeys.

Climate

The climate is extreme due to its physiographic characteristics and location in the Volcanic Western Cordillera. Climatic conditions are influenced by the altitude and topography of the area.

During the rainy season, which usually occurs between the months of December and February, precipitation is low, ranging from 45 to 150 mm per year in semidesert areas. These rains are vital to sustain life and biodiversity in the reserve, but their quantity is limited, contributing to the overall aridity and dryness of the environment.

Temperatures, on the whole, are quite low, with averages below 4°C. Nights and early mornings can be especially cold, and strong frosts are common. These extreme climatic conditions lead to markedly low levels of productivity and present challenges for wildlife and vegetation.

The combination of high altitudes, cold temperatures, and limited precipitation creates a hostile environment for many forms of life. However, some species of flora and fauna have developed remarkable adaptations to survive in these extreme conditions, contributing to the uniqueness and biological diversity in the area.

Biodiversity of the Reserve

Ecoregions

Framed within several ecoregions that contribute to the diversity and uniqueness of its natural environment. Specifically, the reserve is part of the High Andes and Altiplano region within the Southern Puna Ecoregion. Additionally, it is located in the Desert Puna with Nival and Subnival Zones Subecoregion, which includes the High Andean Vegetation of the Western Cordillera.

The Desert Puna with Nival and Subnival Zones Subecoregion is an area of extreme climate, characterized by scarce vegetation cover due to low precipitation and low temperatures at high altitudes. This type of ecoregion is typical of the Andean high plateau and borders the Atacama Desert, further emphasizing the desert conditions present in the area.

In this subecoregion, altitudes range from 3800 meters above sea level to nearly 7,000 masl, reflecting the extensive altitudinal variety of the reserve. Average annual temperatures are quite low, ranging between approximately 0 and 5°C, while average annual precipitation is scarce, ranging from less than 50 mm to 250 mm.

Due to these extreme conditions, vegetation in this ecoregion is sparse and specialized, with unique adaptations to survive in such a hostile environment. Some species, like the small Malvaceae Nototriche turritella found on the hills of the Western Cordillera, are examples of flora adaptation to these altitudinal zones.

Flora

The reserve hosts a fascinating array of flora adapted to the extreme conditions of its environment. At least 102 species of flora have been recorded, but it’s estimated that there may be around 200 species of higher plants within the reserve.

Among the most characteristic vegetation of the region are the queñua groves (Polylepis tarapacana) and yareta fields (Azorella compacta), both species considered threatened. Relictual queñua trees are found in microclimate enclaves at altitudes even exceeding 4,800 meters above sea level. These are located in rocky areas with northern, eastern, and northeastern exposures, such as the hills near Mama Khumu Lagoon and the lower slopes of Uturuncu Volcano.

Yareta fields, on the other hand, are found in mountainous areas and rocky outcrops in the Kollpa, Totoral, and Kalina Lagoons, as well as in the Polques, Chalviri ridges, and Laguna Hedionda hill on the western side of the reserve along the Chilean border.

In terms of shrublands, there are mixed xerophytes with species like Polylepis tarapacana, Fabiana bryoides, Baccharis incarum, Cherdosoma jodopappa, and cushions of Azorella compacta, mostly located in rocky microclimates. There are also edaphic xerophytes of tholas (Parastrephia phylicaeformis) in relatively extensive areas.

The tholares, located in the northeastern part of the Quetena River valley, feature several tholas species such as Qhiru thola (Parastrephia lepidophyla), Lejia thola (Baccharis incarum), and Koa thola (Fabiana squamata), all threatened due to domestic and commercial extraction.

The bofedales, on the other hand, are distributed along the edges of lagoons and slow-moving rivers, with Quetena Grande being the most important and best-preserved one, dominated by species like Oxychloe andina and Puccinella frígida.

Regarding grasslands, they are either tussocky or feather-grassed, with a predominance of species like Stipa frigida, Festuca orthophylla, and Senecio puchii. There are also hygrophilous grasslands in less-drained areas of the plain and transitioning to bofedales, formed by Deyeuxia curvula and Werneria pomposa.

Aquatic communities are found in shallow waters on the periphery of ponds, lagoons, and slow-moving streams, with species like Ranunculus unifloris and Lilaeopsis macloviana. There are also communities in deeper, stagnant, or slightly flowing waters, with species like Myriophyllum quitensis and Potamogeton filiformis, found in river courses within the bofedal.

Fauna

The reserve is home to a diverse array of fauna species that comfortably inhabit extreme conditions. These species are distributed around the natural features present in the protected area, such as the lagoons and bofedales, where high biodiversity is concentrated.

According to the Reserve’s Monitoring Program, over 105 species of fauna have been recorded in this unique ecosystem. Some of the standout species include:

1. Birds: diverse species, especially those associated with water bodies like lagoons. Among the most representative birds are flamingos, including the Chilean flamingo, James’s flamingo, and Andean flamingo (the rarest in the world). Other waterfowl such as ducks, gulls, and avocets can also be observed.
2. Mammals: adapted to high-altitude and extreme climate conditions. Some of the most notable include vicuñas, which inhabit the higher areas of the reserve, as well as vizcachas, tarucas, and guanacos. It is also possible to spot foxes, llamas, and alpacas.
3. Fish: in lagoons and watercourses, fish adapted to cold and shallow waters can be found. Species like highland silverside (Orestias spp.) and killi (Orestias cuvieri) are examples of endemic and unique fish of the Andean region.
4. Reptiles and Amphibians: in lower terrains and wet areas, some reptile and amphibian species adapted to the Desert Puna conditions can be found. Some snakes and lizards can be found in these areas, as well as toads and aquatic frogs in water bodies.

The richness of fauna species in the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve is a testament to the importance of conserving this unique habitat in the Andean region. Preserving this protected area is essential to ensure the survival of these species and maintain biodiversity in one of the world’s most extreme and fragile ecosystems.

Tourist Attractions and Activities

Laguna Blanca (White Lagoon)

Laguna Blanca was formed by the separation of Laguna Verde due to climatic changes. This body of water changed color and now exhibits its beauty in white and crystalline tones. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the lagoon also features hot springs in its vicinity, offering a relaxing experience for visitors.

Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon)

Located at 4,278 meters above sea level, this multicolored lagoon covers an area of 60 km2. Its reddish hues come from zooplankton, phytoplankton, and other sediment elements. The colorful contrast between the surroundings, the flamingos, and the red of the lagoon leaves visitors amazed. It is home to over 30,000 flamingos of three distinct species.

Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon)

Situated at the foot of Licancabur Volcano at 4,350 meters above sea level, Laguna Verde occupies an area of 17 km2. Its greenish color is due to the high magnesium content in the geological formations of the area. The landscape becomes fascinating when the sun is at its zenith.

Volcán Uturuncu (Uturuncu Volcano)

With a height of around 6,008 meters above sea level, this imposing colossus features a steep and mysterious profile. Although it is currently considered "semi-dormant," the volcano shows signs of volcanic activity with active fumaroles emanating from its crater. These fumaroles add a touch of dynamism to its impressive presence.

Volcán Licancabur (Licancabur Volcano)

With an almost perfect conical shape and a height of 5,868 meters above sea level, Licancabur Volcano is inactive and has little vegetation. Located in the western sector of Laguna Verde, it marks the border between Chile and Bolivia. Its ascent presents challenges such as strong winds and rocky slopes, but from the summit, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views.

Desierto de Dalí (Dalí Desert)

The Dalí Desert is a magical place with volcanic rocks of surrealistic shapes found in the desert known as Pampa Jara, near Salar de Chalviri. This landscape evokes the art of the famous painter Salvador Dalí and offers a unique experience for nature and art enthusiasts.

Géiser Sol de Mañana (Sol de Mañana Geysers)

Located at a high elevation of approximately 4,990 meters above sea level, the Sol de Mañana Geysers exhibit constant volcanic activity. This impressive natural phenomenon features fumaroles and boiling hot springs, offering a unique spectacle for visitors.

Polques Thermal Springs

These thermal springs are a tourist attraction with beneficial properties for health. Tourists can enjoy relaxing baths in these thermal waters while admiring the natural surroundings.

Aguas Calientes and Puntas Negras Lookouts

From Aguas Calientes and Puntas Negras Lookouts, visitors can delight in breathtaking panoramic views of the lagoon and its surroundings. These viewpoints provide a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the reserve.

Ch’aska Interpretation Center

The Ch’aska Interpretation Center is located in the community of Quetena Chico within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. It is a valuable space that provides detailed information about the diversity and unique characteristics of the surrounding region, enriching visitors’ experience.

Árbol de Piedra (Stone Tree)

It is a set of rock formations whose evolution and shape are due to wind erosion. This surrealistic natural landscape is surrounded by a sand desert, captivating visitors with its stunning panorama.

Sol de Mañana (Morning Sun)

An hour’s journey from Laguna Colorada, you can find geysers, intermittent sources of water that spout at 90º C, along with fumaroles and cracks from which volcanic lava emerges. It is recommended to observe the site from a considerable distance due to the sensitivity of the terrain.

Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flat)

Salar de Uyuni is one of the most iconic places in Bolivia. With an area of over 10,000 square kilometers, this vast salt desert is the largest in the world and a true natural wonder.

Located in the department of Potosí in southwestern Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni offers a surreal and dazzling landscape that captivates all who visit. During the rainy season, it becomes an immense mirror that reflects the sky and creates an impressive effect known as the "mirage" or "mirror of water."

In addition to its stunning expanse of bright white salt, Salar de Uyuni is home to islands of giant cacti, such as the famous Isla Incahuasi, which provide a unique and striking contrast to the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Aspects

Local Communities and Indigenous Influence

The local communities living in and around the reserve have a deep relationship with the land and nature, and their culture and history are intrinsically linked. Respect for nature is a central pillar of the communities that have inhabited this region for centuries.

Intersection of the Reserve with Bolivian History and Culture

It is not only a refuge for biodiversity but also plays a crucial role in Bolivia’s history and cultural identity. Since time immemorial, the region has been a place of significance for Bolivia’s indigenous peoples.

Visitor’s Guide

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve is during the months of June, July, and August. During this period, the weather is drier, and temperatures are more moderate, making it easier to move around and access various points of interest.

How to Get There and Get Around

To reach the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, there are different access routes from various nearby locations. Below are descriptions of some of the most common options:

1. From Uyuni, Potosí (Bolivia): The most common entry point is from the city of Uyuni in the Potosí department. From Uyuni, you should take a route that takes approximately 6 hours to reach the community of Quetena Chico. This community is a significant entry point and starting point for exploring its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
2. From the Chilean Border (Laguna Colorada to Laguna Verde): Another option for entry is from the northwest of the area, near the Chilean border. This route connects Laguna Colorada with Laguna Verde and offers panoramic views of colorful lagoons and spectacular landscapes.
3. From San Pablo de Lípez or Soniquera: In the central part of the reserve, there are roads that lead from the communities of San Pablo de Lípez or Soniquera. These routes provide access to different sectors and allow visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty.
4. From San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: If you are in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, it is also possible to enter from the south. There is a route that connects with other routes from Laguna Colorada, allowing tourists from the Chilean side to enjoy this natural wonder.

Accommodations in Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve

While the tourist infrastructure within the reserve is limited, there are accommodation options available ranging from basic shelters to more comfortable lodgings. Some services are also available, such as meals and tour guides.
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N°	LODGING	LOCATION	NUMBER OF BEDS	NUMBER OF ROOMS	PRICE Bs
1.	Hostal Uturunku	Quetena Chico	18	7	40 and 150
2.	Hostal Jaqueline	Quetena Chico	27	6	40 and 120
3.	Community Hostel Volcán Licancabur	Quetena Grande	8	8	50, 70 and 130
4.	Hostal Rumi Tambo	Quetena Grande	6	22	35 and 80
5.	Polques Community Center (initiative of the Quetena Grande community)	Polques	—	—	6 (67442484)
6.	Hostal Efames	Polques	22	4	35
7.	Hostal Árbol de Piedra	Huayllajara	33	7	30 and 150
8.	Hostal Los Andes	Huayllajara	34	6	30 to 35
9.	Hostal Rincón de Huayllajara	Huayllajara	22	8	30, 40 and 130
10.	Hostal Cordillera	Huayllajara	22	10	35, 40 and 130
11.	Hostal Luna Dorada	Huayllajara	31	8	35, 110, 120 and 130
12.	Hostal Flamenco	Huayllajara	24	4	30
13.	Hostal Altiplano	Huayllajara	39	8	40
14.	Hostal Cristal	Huayllajara	24	6	35 and 125
15.	Hostal Chururu	Laguna Colorada	36	7	35
16.	Hostal Rosita	Laguna Colorada	30	5	30
17.	Hostal Laguna Colorada	Laguna Colorada	28	5	30
18.	Hostal Condori	Laguna Colorada	30	7	30

(*) Subject to change according to the season.

Prices

The entrance fee to the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve varies according to the visitor’s category:

• Foreign visitors: 150 Bolivianos.
• National visitors: 30 Bolivianos.
• National students: They are considered as national visitors, which means that national students might have the same entrance fee as national visitors, that is, 30 Bolivianos.

Photo Gallery

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References

• Supreme Decree No. 11239 (pdf Spanish).
• Supreme Decree 18431 (pdf Spanish).
• Supreme Decree 18313 (pdf Spanish).
• Specific Tour Operation Regulation of the Eduardo Avaroa National Andean Fauna Reserve (pdf Spanish).