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Desaguadero River
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River
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Water temperature…
The Desaguadero River is the primary drainage system of the Bolivian Altiplano, serving as the only surface link between Lake Titicaca and the now largely desiccated Lake Poopó. Originating at the southern tip of Lake Titicaca at an elevation of approximately 3,812 meters, the river flows for about 436 kilometers in a southeasterly direction. Its hydrological importance is paramount for the water balance of the endorheic basin, although only about 5% of the outflow from Titicaca typically reaches the Poopó terminus. Throughout its course, the water salinity increases significantly due to high evaporation rates and the geological nature of the salty terrain. Historically, the river was a vital landmark for pre-Columbian civilizations, providing resources in an otherwise arid high-altitude environment. Today, the river faces severe environmental challenges, including heavy metal contamination from mining and the ecological impact of the vanishing Lake Poopó.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 101 | 86 | 53 | 21 | 7 | 26 | 7 | 12 | 18 | 25 | 29 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The river can be easily accessed from various points along the international highway that connects La Paz (Bolivia) to Puno (Peru). The border town of Desaguadero serves as a major crossing point and viewing area.
Best season
The region can be visited consistently throughout the year. The dry season (May to October) ensures clear skies for long-distance views across the Altiplano, while the wet season raises the river's water levels.
Terrain & paths
The river flows gently across the vast, flat expanse of the high-altitude Andean plateau (Altiplano), characterized by sweeping grasslands, marshy edges, and traditional agricultural communities along its banks.
What to bring
Standard travel clothing suitable for the cool, windy conditions of the Altiplano is recommended. A good camera and binoculars are beneficial for observing birdlife in the marshy wetlands.
Parking
Ample roadside parking is available in the town of Desaguadero and near various viewpoints along the highway, making it convenient for short stops during overland journeys between the two countries.
Safety
The high altitude requires awareness of potential breathlessness, and visitors should dress warmly to combat the freezing winds. In border towns, travelers should keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded market areas.
Time needed
Most travelers view the river during a brief 1 to 2-hour stopover or border crossing process, though dedicated birdwatchers might spend longer exploring the nearby wetlands and lakes.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the Desaguadero River is approximately 436 kilometers.
- It connects Lake Titicaca at 3,812m to Lake Poopó at 3,686m altitude.
- A segment of the river forms the international border between Bolivia and Peru.
- The average flow velocity is very low, measured at about 0.3 meters per second.
- During extreme dry seasons, the outflow from Lake Titicaca can drop to zero.
- Salinity levels increase from 1 g/L at the source to over 10 g/L near the delta.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which two lakes does the Desaguadero connect?
It connects Lake Titicaca with Lake Poopó.
In which direction does the river flow?
From Lake Titicaca southwards through the Altiplano.
What is the salinity of the water?
The salinity increases the further south it flows.
Is the river used for irrigation?
Yes, but water quality is often diminished by salts and metals.
Are there archaeological sites by the river?
Yes, nearby are remains of ancient cultures such as Tiwanaku.
Desaguadero River: where is it located?
Desaguadero River is located in Bolivia.
Desaguadero River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Desaguadero River: why is it worth visiting?
The Desaguadero River is the primary drainage system of the Bolivian Altiplano, serving as the only surface link between Lake Titicaca and the now largely desiccated Lake Poopó.
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History & landmarks
Puente Trillizos
A set of three modern cable-stayed bridges in La Paz that connect different parts of the rugged city.
Puente de las Américas
A prominent bridge in La Paz that spans deep ravines and connects the Miraflores and Sopocachi neighborhoods.
Estadio Hernando Siles
One of the highest professional football stadiums in the world, where the Bolivian national team plays its home matches.
Monumento a Eduardo Abaroa
A monument on the plaza of the same name in La Paz, dedicated to the Bolivian national hero Eduardo Abaroa from the War of the Pacific.
Mirador Laikakota
A popular park and viewpoint in the Parque Urbano Central, offering excellent views of the low-lying part of La Paz.
Mirador Killi Killi
A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.
Plaza Murillo
The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
The neoclassical cathedral on Plaza Murillo impresses with its steep stairs and magnificent dome.
More places
Yungas Coca Terraces
Steep, meticulously maintained terraces in the Yungas cultivate coca leaves, a sacred and culturally important crop for Andean peoples.
Illimani
Majestic three-peaked mountain that serves as the iconic snowy backdrop to the city of La Paz.
Yungas Coffee Region
The steep, cloud-covered slopes of the Yungas are ideal for growing high-quality, shade-grown Arabica coffee.
Altiplano Plateau
A vast, high-altitude plateau that is the demographic and historical heart of the Bolivian Andes.
La Senda Verde
An important wildlife sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates trafficked animals, including monkeys, bears, and exotic birds.
Valley of the Souls
A fascinating geological site near La Paz with towering, needle-like rock formations that attract young explorers.
Vesty Pakos Zoo
The highest altitude zoo in the world, located in La Paz, focusing on the rescue and rehabilitation of native Andean wildlife.
Alto Beni Cacao Plantations
Deep in the Amazon basin, smallholder cooperatives grow premium organic cacao, supporting sustainable agroforestry.