Broadcast Outage: We're investigating a broadcast transmission failure affecting the San Luis Valley from Antonito in the south to Salida in the north. We're working to resolve this issue. You can stream our live broadcast HERE or via the RMPBS+ App.

Stream live and on-demand content now on our new app:
RMPBS+

Help tell more stories in 2026 - make a year-end gift!

Give Now
The Desert Speaks show's poster
Science and Nature
TV-G
The Desert Speaks

Bolivia: The Cold Desert Frontier

Host David Yetman takes viewers on unforgettable, bold explorations of desert landscapes. Through intriguing storytelling and stunning photography, viewers find out about the people, plants, animals and archaeology of arid regions throughout the New World. "The Desert Speaks" was produced for 19 seasons, and continues to air today.

RMPBS Passport

Please log in to your PBS Passport account to watch this video

Become a Member

Bolivia: The Cold Desert Frontier

Season 13 Episode 2 | 26m 14s | CC

Our journey to the highest desert in the world begins in Potosi, in southwestern Bolivia. At 12,000 feet above sea level, it is the highest city in the world. The indigenous people of this high cold desert have used llama trains for thousands of years to transport the salt harvested in the area’s dry lakebeds. Our explorers also visit the Salar de Uyuni.

The Desert Speaks

Watch more episodes

See more
See more
This AZPM Original Production streams here because of viewer donations. Make a gift now and support its creation and let us know what you love about it! Even more episodes are available to stream with AZPM Passport.

Subscribe to Our Newsletters

Get trusted Colorado stories, programs, and events from Rocky Mountain PBS straight to your inbox.

Set Your Preferences >