Things to do in Colchani

Activities, attractions and tours

The South American Puna Flamingo is also known as James's Flamingo (so named for Harry Berkeley James) and Lesser Andean Flamingo.  It received its common name "Puna" from its natural habitat - "puna" is the local word for high Andean plateau. The flamingo's characteristic pink / salmon-colored plumage is caused by their beta carotene-rich diet.

The Puna Flamingos occur on the high Andean plateaus of Peru, Chile, Bolivia and Argentina where they usually occur at altitudes of over 3,000 m (9,900 ft).
Together with the other South American flamingos -- namely the Andean Flamingos and Chilean Flamingos, they inhabit salt lakes and lagoons in the Andean mountains, After the breeding season, most migrate to lower attitudes for the winter. Some remain at lakes near hot springs.

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The South American Puna Flamingo is also known as James's Flamingo (so named for Harry Berkeley James) and Lesser Andean Flamingo.  It received its common name "Puna" from its natural habitat - "puna" is the local word for high Andean plateau. The flamingo's characteristic pink / salmon-colored plumage is caused by their beta carotene-rich diet.

The Puna Flamingos occur on the high Andean plateaus of Peru, Chile, Bolivia and Argentina where they usually occur at altitudes of over 3,000 m (9,900 ft).
Together with the other South American flamingos -- namely the Andean Flamingos and Chilean Flamingos, they inhabit salt lakes and lagoons in the Andean mountains, After the breeding season, most migrate to lower attitudes for the winter. Some remain at lakes near hot springs.

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The only salt-making facilities using salt from the Salar de Uyuni are located in Colchani – a cooperative joint-owned by all salt workers. There is an estimated 10 billion tonnes of salt contained in the Salar de Uyuni, with around 25,000 tonnes excavated and processed at Colchani annually.

They scrape salt off the salar into pyramid-shaped piles and leave it to dry in the sun. Once dry (after 4 days or so) the salt is shoveled into trucks and carted to Colchani to be processed. It is cooked in ovens to dry further, then iodine is added and the mixture milled before being sealed into 1 kilogram sacks. The final product – table salt – is sold by the cooperative in Bolivia and Brazil.

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What to do in Colchani


Frequently asked questions

Is Colchani worth visiting?
Colchani offers a unique mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into nature, history or local culinary flavors, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Colchani?
Start your adventures with a visit to the leading attractions. Remember to check out the shopping and dining options in Colchani while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Colchani?
Scroll up to browse a range of recommended things to do in Colchani, including affordable activities, family favorites and other can't-miss highlights.
Is three days enough to stay in Colchani?
Book a vacation in Colchani for three days and you'll easily be able to check out its most in-demand sights and experience the local way of life. For the chance to visit highlights in the surrounding areas and venture off the tourist trail, consider visiting for seven to ten days.
What are some activities to do in Colchani with kids?
Planning what to do in Colchani with kids has never been so easy. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone happy here.
What to do in Colchani for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Colchani. Whether you're into history, art, adventure or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Colchani?
With plenty of free things to do in Colchani, you can enjoy the area without breaking the bank. Soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or explore the local neighbourhoods.

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