The Licancabur volcano stands impressively between lonely landscapes and Andean deserts. Its perfectly shaped cone cuts through the sky at a height of 5,937 metres and marks the border between Bolivia and Chile.
A natural monument, an icon of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean National Wildlife Reserve, a protected area of undisputed beauty.
According to the ancient cultures of the plateau, the Licancabur volcano is one of the Apus or Achachilas, the mountains considered to be the protective deities of these lands. It is therefore a place of worship, as evidenced by the archaeological finds in the area. Its name comes from the Atacameño language or kunza: lickan pueblo and ckabur montaña, or "mountain of the people".
Mountaineering is the most popular activity here. During the challenging ascent to the top of the volcano you can take pictures of an unreal landscape, an indelible memory of the journey through the Bolivian highlands.
At an altitude of 4,600 metres there are cult sites here which, as the local people say, serve the purpose of asking for permission and protection before embarking on the final stretch of the route. Several archaeological expeditions carried out since the 19th century have found ritual structures with ceremonial characteristics even at the foot of the peak.
Along the climb you may notice numerous medicinal plants with, so it is said, great healing powers thanks to the mineral richness of the soil.
The Licancabur volcano is just one of the wonderful natural points of interest in the South of Bolivia: contact us and let us guide you to the discovery of unforgettable landscapes and people.
Additional Info
We recommend warm and windproof clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, hat, sunglasses, binoculars and a camera.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Weekend
Where
Eduardo Avaroa Andean Reserve, San Pablo de Lipez municipality, Potosí department
Transportation
By private transport
From Uyuni take National Route 5 and later Highway 701 towards the border with Chile Hito Cajones. Highway 701 crosses the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve; the Llicancabur Volcano will appear before reaching the Chile-Bolivia border. The road is mostly dirt and sand, a 4x4 vehicle is required.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
For your own health and that of the local population, remember to respect all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: bring a mask and hand sanitizer, as well as a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medication for altitude sickness.
During your visit, remember to protect the region's cultural and natural heritage.