Polques Hot
Springs, Bolivia.

The Polques Hot Springs (also known as Chalviri) are natural geothermal springs at 4,400m altitude in the Eduardo Avaroa National Fauna Reserve, Bolivia. Water emerges at ~30°C from the volcanic altiplano's geothermal activity and forms a small outdoor natural pool. The setting is extraordinary: Andean flamingos metres away, Licancabur volcano (5,916m) on the horizon, and the red Laguna Colorada 5km to the east. They are visited on Day 3 of the 3-day tour from Uyuni.

The water at Polques emerges at approximately 28–30°C. Warm enough to bathe comfortably, especially contrasted with the 0–5°C air at 4,400m altitude in the morning. The experience of immersing yourself in 30°C water while the surrounding air is near freezing — with flamingos nearby and a volcano on the horizon — is one of the most memorable stops on the southwest circuit.

Yes — essential. The pool is for bathing and most tour participants who skip the swimsuit regret it. Pack the swimsuit somewhere easily accessible (not at the bottom of your bag) since you will change in open air at 4,400m. Also bring: a microfibre towel (dries faster than cotton), a waterproof bag for wet items, and flip-flops or sandals. The visit lasts 30–45 minutes.

Polques is only accessible by 4×4 as part of the 3-day tour from Uyuni — no independent transport exists. In the standard itinerary, Polques is visited on the morning of Day 3, between Sol de Mañana geysers (8km east) and Laguna Verde (15km southwest). The Eduardo Avaroa reserve entrance fee (150 BOB/~$22 USD) covers the hot springs. No additional fee beyond the reserve entrance.

Polques receives all the 4×4 groups doing the 3-day Uyuni circuit — typically 10–30 vehicles in high season (June–September). The pool is small (approximately 5×8m), so it can be crowded at peak times (8–10am). Groups are staggered but overlaps happen. In low season (November–April) the pool is much quieter. The experience is always worth it regardless of crowd level — the setting is extraordinary.