uyuni salt flats bolivia tour

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A thin layer of water transforms Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni into a striking reflective canvas.

These Salt Flats Are One of the Most Remarkable Vistas on Earth

Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni can make for an incredible experience or a logistical nightmare. Plan your trip with these tips.

Bolivia ’s Salar de Uyuni is considered one of the most extreme and remarkable vistas in all of South America, if not Earth. Stretching more than 4,050 square miles of the Altiplano, it is the world’s largest salt flat, left behind by prehistoric lakes evaporated long ago. Here, a thick crust of salt extends to the horizon, covered by quilted, polygonal patterns of salt rising from the ground.

At certain times of the year, nearby lakes overflow and a thin layer of water transforms the flats into a stunning reflection of the sky. This beautiful and otherworldly terrain serves as a lucrative extraction site for salt and lithium—the element responsible for powering laptops, smart phones, and electric cars. In addition to local workers who harvest these minerals, the landscape is home to the world's first salt hotel and populated by road-tripping tourists. The harsh beauty and desolateness of Salar de Uyuni can make for an incredible experience or a logistical nightmare. Here’s a guide to help:

HOW TO GET THERE

Located at the crux of Bolivia, Chile , and Argentina , the logistics and length of your trip to Salar de Uyuni will depend where you’re coming from. Tours originate from three main places:

Uyuni, Bolivia : The most popular jumping-off point for salt flats tours, Uyuni is a small, dusty town packed with tourism agencies in Plaza Arce, its main square. Travelers can book tours in advance online, through tour offices in La Paz, or they can simply arrive in Uyuni and peruse the options in town. Since Uyuni is so close to the salt flats, tourists can easily book day trips. Flights from La Paz to Uyuni can be booked through Amaszonas and BoA (one hour, about $130 round-trip). Overnight buses from La Paz are available with Trans Omar and Todo Turismo (10-12 hours, $30 to $40 each way).

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile : Agencies drive travelers to the border before handing the tour over to a Bolivian operator. Due to the distance, this is a three-day tour.

Tupiza, Bolivia: This is the best starting point for travelers coming from Argentina. Tour operators recommend four-day tours from Tupiza, visiting Salar de Uyuni on the final day.

The star-studded night sky casts the salt flats shades of blue. During the dry season the ground hardens and polygonal patterns of salt rise from the ground.

Salar de Uyuni has two distinct seasons. The rainy season (December to April) is when visitors come to witness the Salar’s breathtaking mirror effect. Be wary of excessive rain in December and January, as it can cause tour cancelations. During the dry season (May to November) temperatures are colder, the ground has hardened, and travelers can drive across the stark white landscape to places that aren’t accessible in the rainy season. Tour operators consider June through August their high period, and rates may rise accordingly.

CHOOSING A TOUR

While the salt flats are one of Bolivia’s most popular attractions, it’s only a small part of the gorgeous Altiplano region. Many visitors indulge in a three-day tour (or longer) that includes the deserts, volcanos, geysers, hot springs, and high-altitude lakes to the south. Tours out of San Pedro de Atacama and Tupiza are already scheduled to drive through these sites.

Travelers can choose between a shared tour (cheaper and standardized) or private tour (higher-priced and custom-tailored). Shared tours generally provide Spanish-speaking guides who double as the driver and chef. These follow a rigid itinerary that will not likely accommodate individual requests and can hinder certain times of day, like sunrise or sunset. Private tours, by contrast, can be customized to a client’s liking, giving travelers more control over itinerary and the ability to go off the beaten path to volcanos or caves. Private tours also provide an English-speaking guide, chef, and a more comfortable vehicle.

Check online reviews and travel guides to carefully choose a reputable guide. Avoid companies that offer rock bottom prices—they may not provide an accredited guide or working car, which can endanger tourists. Also ask your agency whether they carry an emergency radio and first-aid kit.

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS

One of the highlights of Salar de Uyuni is an endless horizon that allows photographers to play with perspective and depth of field. Stage battle scenes with toy dinosaurs, cook your friends in pots and pans, or crawl out of seemingly giant jars of peanut butter. The key to great photos is to get the camera low to the ground and close to your prop. This gives the perspective that the prop is larger than the human subjects, who stand farther away. Don’t let your subjects venture too far, though—the larger the distance between the prop and the subjects, the harder it will be to keep everything in focus. If your camera permits, make the aperture as narrow as possible.

Salar de Uyuni's seemingly endless horizon allows photographers to play with perspective and depth of field.

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ODDS AND ENDS

At nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, visitors may experience altitude sickness if they haven’t properly acclimatized. Symptoms include nausea, headaches, and insomnia among others. Discuss various options for preventing and treating altitude sickness with your doctor before your trip.

Bolivia requires a tourist visa ($160 for U.S. citizens) as well as a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate to enter the country.

Liz Unger is a National Geographic Young Explorer, photojournalist, and filmmaker from New York. Follow her on Twitter @ewu5191 and Instagram @ewu5191 , and explore her work at www.lizunger.com .

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Bolivian Salt Flats 2024

The most complete guide ever written with tips and advice to ensure you have the best possible experience at the bolivian salt flats..

Our guide to Bolivian Salt Flats in 2024 is extensive and based on almost 10 years of experience as well as hundreds of surveys from ex-travelers. Click any section below to read more information or scroll down to read the full complete guide of the Bolivian Salt Flats.

Bolivian Salt Flats of Uyuni – Quick Facts

Uyuni is around 8 hours South of La Paz

Access via overnight bus or small plane – options below

Salt Flat tours – 1 day and 3 day options – tips below

Known as the “world’s largest mirror”

Complete Guide to Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia

(click any link to go direct to that section or scroll down to read the whole guide)

How To Get To Uyuni Salt Flats

Salt Flats Tour and Tips

The Perfect Salt Flats Plan – Itinerary Information

How To Take Amazing Photos At The Salt Flats Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni - FAQs - Your Questions Answered!

Bolivia Salt Flats Guide - Summary

Salar de Uyuni is accessible from Bolivia (for those going south) from La Paz, and from Chile (for those going north) via San Pedro de Atacama Desert.

From La Paz, it is usually 8 hours on a bed (cama) bus overnight, allowing you to arrive early morning, which is the best time to arrive to Uyuni.

From San Pedro de Atacama in Chile, buses take around 11 hours, factoring in the border crossing from Chile to Bolivia and involve a combination of buses. Tours are usually more recommended for when going from San Pedro to Uyuni or vice/versa.

Buses from La Paz to Uyuni

Bolivia Hop has been officially voted Bolivia’s best bus company in from 2016 to 2020 but as of December 2023, they still do not operate from La Paz to Uyuni. Bolivia Hop is the best way to get to and from La Paz, and then Todo Turismo is probably the best way to get from La Paz to Uyuni or from Uyuni back to La Paz. When booking with Todo Turismo, always try to get the Cama (bed) option. Do NOT go with other companies such as Transporte Omar or anybody else…safety records are suspect so we strongly recommend to travel with Todo Turismo to/from Uyuni, and Bolivia Hop to/from La Paz. Once in Uyuni, you can start your Salt Flats tour (1 day or a 3 day tour that ends in San Pedro de Atacama in Chile).

Quick Tip: The best way to book your Bolivian Salt Flats tour is by visiting Find Local Trips , a tour comparison website that allows you to choose tours from the top-rated operators throughout South America..

Buses from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni

There are NO direct buses from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni and it is strongly recommended to take a 3 day tour from San Pedro to Uyuni (or from Uyuni to San Pedro if you are traveling South) instead of trying to do this route via bus. This is because you will need to change buses, cross borders, and quite often this is a logistical nightmare.

If you insist on trying to travel from San Pedro to Uyuni by bus, or from Uyuni to San Pedro by bus. Cruz del Norte are usually the best bus company to go with.

The Bolivian Salt Flats in Uyuni are a MUST see for any trip to South America. It is STRONGLY recommended to book your tour in advance where possible and to NOT book your tour in Uyuni (book in La Paz or online) as many companies scam tourists, so be very careful with your choice of tour operator.

There are 2 types of tours of Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats:

Full Day Tour of the Salt Flats, start and finish in Uyuni on same day

A one-day tour of Salar de Uyuni in 4×4 jeeps are common and the shortest tours possible. The one day tour is also the cheapest way to visit the Salt Flats. Tours start in Uyuni around 10am (allowing you to have breakfast after your overnight bus from La Paz to Uyuni) and finish around 5pm (allowing you to take an overnight bus back to La Paz on the SAME day or to another destination.

A visit to the train cemetery is followed by a stop in Colchani before arriving to the Salt Flats and getting the first glimpse of this vast environment. Salt hotels, salt mounds, isolated ‘islands’ covered in cacti, lunch, and plenty of time for taking photos before returning to Uyuni at 5 pm. This is approximately how most of these tours run but for a more detailed itinerary check FindLocalTrips here .

Prices are from $70 USD to $90 USD

Start and finish in Uyuni, or finish in San Pedro de Atacama. If coming from San Pedro de Atacama, this 3 day tour will finish in Uyuni

3 Day Tours of Salar de Uyuni in 4×4 jeeps are the most popular tour type. The first day is the same as the one day tour – usually spending the first night in one of the basic Salt Hotels on the Salar itself. These hotels are almost completely constructed out of bricks made from dried salt!

The second and third days are spent seeing the colored lakes, hot springs, flamingo flocks, hot geysers, crazy rock formations – such as Arbol de Piedra (Rock Tree) , and painted volcanoes. You will be sleeping in tents and truly immersing yourself in this rugged part of the world. The stars alone in this unpolluted place can take your breath away.

3 day tours ending in San Pedro de Atacama – It’s also possible to hop over the border at the end of the tour, connecting to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

No attractions are missed by leaving the tour at the Chilean border before it heads back to Uyuni.

3 days tours STARTING From San Pedro de Atacama – There is also the opportunity to do this Salt Flat tour starting in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile and ending in Uyuni on the last day or returning to San Pedro the following day. Tours from San Pedro can be somewhat more expensive than those from Uyuni. This is the best way to get to Bolivia from Chile and the itineraries are the same as above just in reverse order with the final day being the Salt Flats themselves.

The best and most popular way to visit the Salar de Uyuni is by taking a 4×4 tour across the salt flats.

Most Salt Flats tours are safe and reliable; however, the conditions are basic in this area and you should be aware of this. The Salar de Uyuni is one of the harshest environments for vehicles on the planet and occasional vehicle issues can happen, this to a certain extent is unavoidable. The drivers are used to breakdowns and are pretty adept at fixing their vehicles. They are always willing to help each other out and you are usually not stuck for long – so a bit of patience is often all you need. Food will be basic.

As with all tours, pick your tour operator carefully. There have been occasional issues with tour drivers drinking alcohol while driving 4×4 jeeps laden with travelers and causing some nasty crashes. It is why we strongly recommend to go with one of the best tour operators available. FindLocalTrips is probably the best place to compare operators and from our experience, they only work with the safest and most reliable operators. More information can be found here

Some basic information:

• If you are traveling South, you will usually take the La Paz to Uyuni trip
• If traveling North, you will either come from San Pedro de Atacama in Chile or from Salta in Argentina
• 3 day tours of the Salt Flats are the most popular and most complete options. 1 day tours are ideal for those short on time
• On 3 day tours, you do NOT have to return to Uyuni if you do not wish…you can finish the 3day your in San Pedro (if going to Chile after Bolivia)
• It IS possible to do the following if short on time:
• Night bus from La Paz to Uyuni (9hrs)
• Arrive Uyuni AM and take full day (1day) tour
• On same day, take a night bus back to La Paz (9hrs)
• For buses to/from La Paz, we strongly recommend using the Bolivia Hop bus
• For buses to/from Uyuni, we strongly recommend using Todo Turismo

If you want detailed information on a full day (1 day) tour or the 3day tour, click on any of the tabs below to get a full and detailed itinerary and tips on what to bring etc.

The unique setting of endless salt flat at Salar de Uyuni make all kinds of crazy perspective photography possible. Here we have our top tips for great Salt Flats photos to add to your collection.

• Bring as much small and interesting items as possible: toy animals and action figures, toy vehicles and regular props such as sunglasses, hiking boots, and water bottles can all be turned into something funny and useful
• To set up for the shot the photographer needs to lie on their stomach and rest the camera on the ground to make positioning much easier; holding the camera in your hand makes it next to impossible
• Advice from an old photographer: “Shoot, shoot, shoot!!” Take lots and lots of shots since it’s not so easy to see your camera screen in the glare and you might never be back here again
• Making everyone jump in the air is a last resort shot that can always come out well!!!

Will I get problems with altitude sickness at the Salar de Uyuni?

IMPORTANT: IF TRAVELING FROM LA PAZ (also at high altitude) you should be fine in Uyuni, once you have spent 1 or 2 days in La Paz, or even Cusco (Machu Picchu) in Peru.

Altitude sickness can catch many travellers a little bit off guard. Not everyone gets sick at high altitudes and it is difficult to predict who is likely to be badly affected by it. For most people it is nothing more than a headache and some dizzy sensations that diminish over a short period of time, 1 to 2 days for most people.

If you want to limit your chances of getting sick though, there are a few things you can do.

Drink lots of water and slow down!! This sounds simple but both of these things are very important. Your body is struggling because you don’t have enough oxygen so avoiding any extraneous activity is a good idea. Chew Some Coca Leaves. The native people of South America have been chewing coca for centuries thanks to its ability to alleviate mild altitude sickness symptoms. Coca leaves can be bought in any supermarket and even souvenir shops or street stalls.

Take (Soroche) Altitude Sickness pills, these are sold over the counter all over Peru and Bolivia and are just a few dollars. If you are flying straight into altitude over 2500meter, without spending any time at a intermediate elevation and you’re worried about getting sick, you can ask your doctor for more specific and stronger altitude sickness medication in advance.

From where do the tours of the Salt Flats start? Can I start from La Paz?

All of the tours of Salar de Uyuni start in Uyuni. The tours will not include your transfer from La Paz, you will need to organise and pay for this separately. The buses to Uyuni are overnight and depart La Paz every night and arrive into Uyuni the next day at approx. 7am. All the tours start at 10am-11am. It is strongly recommended to book your Uyuni tour online or in La Paz, NOT in Uyuni itself.

Do I need to stay one night in Uyuni before and after my tour?

You will arrive into Uyuni early in the morning and it is possible to start a tour the day you arrive. Most of the tours will start 10am-11am in the morning. You will return to Uyuni by 5:30 – 6:00 pm and will have time to eat and head back on the overnight bus to La Paz or take a bus onto Potosi / Sucre. It is advised that you book these buses in advance of taking your trip of the Salt Flats so no it is not necessary to stay in Uyuni.

Are there ATMs?

Bring money with you. Sometimes the ATMs do not work in Uyuni so it is best to take out any money you need in advance.

Will I have internet connection on a tour?

No, there is no internet connection on the tours. It is a very remote location.

We all agree that the Salt Flats in Uyuni, Bolivia are a MUST for any trip to South America. Uyuni is accessible mainly via La Paz, although other entrances are via San Pedro de Atacama and Patosi or Salta in Argentina. It is strongly recommend to book Salt Flat Tours in advance and only book with reputable companies (those with good reviews online or who allow you to book and pay online). Use Bolivia Hop to get to/from La Paz, use Todo Turismo to get to/from Uyuni, and use Find Local Trips to compare tour operators and book directly with them.

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Salar de Uyuni – How to Visit The Bolivia Salt Flats

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 21, 2023

The Salar de Uyuni is the biggest salt flat in the world and the most famous tourist draw in Bolivia, South America . In fact, for many travelers, the Bolivian Salt Flats is the sole reason they visit Bolivia. We do recommend that you visit more of Bolivia than just the salt flats, but if you want some epic pictures and an unforgettable experience you will want to put the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats on your bucket list.

Ever since the Bolivia Salt Flats played host to the world-famous Dakar Rally in 2014, it has gained even more attention amongst travelers. “You will love it!” These were the words we had heard from other travelers every time we mentioned our plan to travel to the Bolivia Salt Flats. As you might imagine our expectations were sky-high and we couldn’t wait to see the white endless scenery.

Table of Contents

What is the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia?

The Salar de Uyuni is one of the most spectacular adventure-travel destinations on Earth. Think 10 billion tons of salt sprawling across an endless desert. The Salar de Uyuni is a 10,582 square kilometer expanse of cracked white salt, left behind when an ancient salt lake named Coipasa dried up thousands of years ago.

Located in the Bolivian Altiplano, it is the world’s largest salt flat and is located at a high altitude of 3,656 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level.

Salar de Uyuni is made primarily of salt. It is a vast expanse of dried-up prehistoric lakes, and the salt flat itself is the result of the evaporation of water from these ancient lakes. Underneath the salt crust lies a thick layer of brine, which is a concentrated solution of salt and water.

The salt crust on the surface is composed mainly of sodium chloride (table salt) along with other minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and lithium. These minerals give the salt flat its unique colors and patterns. In fact, Salar de Uyuni is not just a salt flat but also contains significant lithium reserves, making it a valuable resource.

During the dry season, the salt crust hardens and forms a vast white landscape, creating a surreal and otherworldly appearance. However, in the rainy season, the flat transforms into a massive reflective surface, resembling a giant mirror due to a thin layer of water that covers the salt crust. This phenomenon creates stunning optical illusions and unique photo opportunities for visitors.

Uyuni Salt Flats Day Tours

The beauty is that the tours are flexible. There are options for 1 day, 3 days, or 4 days, depending on what your schedule is and how much time you want to spend in the area itself. We recommend the 3 or 4-day option as it covers the most.

Most Salar de Uyuni, including ours, meant spending four days locked in a jeep with three other travelers and a cook while our amiable Bolivian driver took us through an increasingly unbelievable array of natural wonders. This is the best way to see the Uyuni salt flats in my opinion.

We have included a map below to give you an idea of where in Bolivia the slat flats are in relation to the rest of the country.

Where do Bolivia Salt Flats Tours Start From?

The beauty of the Salt Flats being so popular is that tours to the area start from a number of different places. For the most part, the length of your salt flats tour will determine where you start.

Start and End in Uyuni

Most tours of Salar de Uyuni leave from the town of Uyuni itself, a dry desert settlement located near the salt flats. It’s by far the cheapest place to pick up a tour, with trips on offer for as low as B$600 (about $80 USD). This is most likely the place you will start out if you are doing a 1 Day tour of the salt flats . We do recommend being cautious and doing your research as we found that quite a few of the tour agencies in Uyuni tout unreliable cars and dangerous drivers.

If you are planning a 3 or 4-day tour then there are a lot more options to choose from when it comes to a starting point and an ending point.

Start in Tupiza End in Uyulni

A more pleasant (if slightly pricier) experience can be had by taking the back road to the Salar, leaving from the south-Bolivian city of Tupiza. Home to a handful of tour agencies and a pleasant main plaza, Tupiza is a relaxing place to spend a couple of days while researching agency options. Tours from here usually last 4 days and at the end, you can return to Tupiza from Salar de Uyuni if you like.

Start in Uyuni End in San Pedro de Atacama in Chile

This is the most popular option, especially if you are looking at a multi-day tour. Alternatively, if you have money to burn, you could begin your tour from San Pedro de Atacama , a beautiful (if absurdly touristy) village in nearby Chile.

Located on Chile’s border with Bolivia, San Pedro de Atacama is surrounded by spectacular scenery of its own to explore–but it’s not for the faint of wallet. This is one of the reasons we recommend booking the tour that starts in Uyuni and ends in Chile at San Pedro de Atacama.

Altitude Sickness

If you do decide to start in San Pedro remember that you will be at a high altitude, so there is a risk of altitude sickness if you don’t take care to acclimate. Drink plenty of water and don’t over-exert.

At this high of elevation, there is a real threat of getting sick. Keep an eye out for altitude sickness symptoms which include headache, nausea, and vomiting when severe. We recommend visiting a travel clinic before visiting Salar de Uyuni. Your doctor may prescribe Diamox. Locals also recommend coca tea made from coca leaves.

La Paz or Sucre

If you are looking just for a quick day tour of the salt flats then you can easily jump on one in either La Paz or Sucre, if you are in those cities and you have a limited amount of time.

How Many Days in the Bolivia Salt Flats Do You Need?

We recommend the 3 or 4-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats. Although you can do a 1-day tour of the salt flats themselves you really do miss out on the other attractions that are covered in the 3 and 4-day tour. The longer tours are more popular for this reason.

Of course, it will all depend on your budget and travel itinerary which length of trip you choose. Just be aware that on the 1-day tour you miss out on the hot springs, the volcano, and the flamingoes and you don’t get the chance to see this amazing sight at sunset. Being a photographer this is a must!

The 3-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats is the perfect amount of time to balance being at altitude and seeing it all.

How to Choose Your Bolivia Salt Flats Tour

There are many tour agencies and many drivers offering tourists an Uyuni experience-but not all of them are reliable. Drunken drivers and sham agencies abound, so be sure to research your options carefully and meet your driver before putting down money. If things seem shady, don’t be afraid to back out.

Some tour operators are all too good at pressuring tourists to ignore their better instincts. The agency I chose was named Natural Adventure , an operator based out of the small Bolivian city of Tupiza.

I had a very good experience with them; though my driver didn’t speak much English, he made up for it with friendliness, verve, and expressive hand gestures.

The truth is that all the tours will cover the same things. It is pretty standard. They will try and upsell you and convince you that they have faster cars or better accommodation just to get more money out of you. If you ask the right questions you will definitely up your chances of getting a great tour.

Recommended Tours to Book Ahead of Time

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Tour to the Uyuni Salt Flats

• How Many People will be in my car? Obviously the smaller amount of people the better. But most tours try and get 6 people plus a driver in a vehicle.
• What type of accommodations are offered? Will you be staying in a salt hotel, sharing a room, or all in one big room?
• Does my driver speak English? Most drivers are also your guide and cook and don’t speak much english. It helps if you know some spanish or you are good at acting things out.
• Is the entrance to the National park included? The usual answer to this is no, but some do offer it. If it is not then be prepared to fork over an extra of 150 Bob ($22 USD). If you plan on visiting “Fish Island” within Uyuni salt lake that will cost you extra as well.
• Where does the tour end? Will you be coming back to Uyuni or doest t finish in another destination like San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. The coice is usually yours.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Bolivia Salt Flats?

As we said above, all of the tours are the same and follow the same route. Do not be fooled by people trying to upsell you to a better tour. The car and the accommodation may change but the tours themselves are identical. That being said the price varies widely, so you are going to have to negotiate the best price.

You should not pay more than 850-1350 Bob for a 3-day tour ($125 – $195 USD) . This price is all-inclusive of food, transportation, accommodation, and a Spanish-speaking guide. If you want an English-speaking guide prepare to pay double. What it does not include is the $20 fee to get into the National Park, so make sure you have cash for that. If you are planning on going to San Pedro de Atacama then you will also need 50 Bob for the border crossing. It is always good to have some cash on you.

It is important to note that the prices above are if you book your tour on arrival or in Bolivia itself. If you book your tour online before you travel the cost can be almost double.

What are the Accommodation Options on the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats Tours?

While tours themselves are markets as basic, I would say that we were pleasantly surprised. We have stayed in some basic places over the years but were fairly impressed when you consider the cost of the tour.

You will spend the first night of the tour in a salt hotel, which we loved. Now when I say a salt hotel, I mean everything is made of salt. The hotel exterior is made of salt blocks, the chairs, ground, and bed are also made of salt. We were happy to have private rooms on the first night to really enjoy it. There was also a shower which cost 10BS and had enough water for 2 people. Take advantage of it as there are no other showers on the tour.

The other nights we slept in dorm-type rooms, but you can pay an extra 150Bs for a private room, which we did. The buildings are clean and well taken care of so you never felt like you were on an ultra-budget tour.

There is no WIFI out here so you will be disconnected which we found a welcome reprieve from constantly checking phones each day.

The way the meals are set up is that breakfast and dinner are served at the accommodation and the lunch is always on the road. The food itself was not fine dining but it was tasty and there was always enough.

Where to Stay Near Salar de Uyuni

While there aren’t many accommodation options directly on the salt flats themselves, the nearby town of Uyuni offers various choices for visitors. Here are some suggestions on where to stay:

Uyuni town: This is the most convenient place to stay as it offers a range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses catering to different budgets. You’ll find options ranging from basic accommodations to more luxurious hotels. Staying in Uyuni allows you to easily access Salar de Uyuni and other nearby attractions.

Colchani: Situated on the edge of Salar de Uyuni, Colchani is a small village known for its salt processing industry. It offers a few accommodations that provide a unique experience closer to the salt flats. Keep in mind that the options may be limited compared to Uyuni town.

Salt hotels: Some unique accommodations are built entirely from salt blocks, providing a distinctive experience for visitors. These hotels are typically located on the outskirts of Uyuni and offer a blend of comfort and the chance to immerse yourself in the salt flat surroundings.

Palacio de Sal is a luxury hotel and spa that was the first salt hotel. Located near the entrance of Salar de Uyuni near Colchani, this is a popular place to stay.

Salt flats camping : For an adventurous experience, you may consider camping on the salt flats. There are tour operators that offer overnight camping trips, providing tents, sleeping bags, and meals. This option allows you to witness the stunning sunsets and starry nights of the salt flats.

How to Dress for a Salar de Uyuni Tour

Travel through Bolivia’s southwest corner means splitting your time between extreme warmth, under the startlingly hot midday sun, and extreme cold, when the chilly high altitude nights creep in.

It’s a good idea to dress in layers–that way, you can layer up as the sun drops, then shed clothing again when it rises. During parts of the Uyuni tour, temperatures can drop as low as -15 degrees celsius, so it’s vital to make sure that you have some warm clothes packed. Read our  layering tips for packing. 

How to Get to Salar de Uyuni

From La Paz to Uyuni

The buses from the de facto capital of La Paz to Uyuni are increasingly geared to tourist comfort, as the Salar de Uyuni becomes a more and more ubiquitous stop among backpackers in South America. The bus from La Paz takes 8 hours and gets you into Uyuni at about 6 am.

This is plenty of time as most tours do not start until 10 am. It is an overnight bus, so you will save on a night’s accommodation if you sleep. It will cost you about $25 USD for the overnight bus and you can check out tickets with https://www.ticketsbolivia.com/

It is recommended to stay a night in Uyuni to acclimate to the altitude.

If you have some extra cash or are limited on time then you can also fly to Uyuni from La Paz. It costs about $100 USD and is often included with private tours from La Paz.

From Sucre to Uyuni

If you are coming from the capital of Bolivia, Sucre, you can catch a direct bus to the Uyuni Salt Flats. The bus ride usually takes about 8 hours. It leaves from the bus terminal on Avenida Ostria Gutierrez in Sucre at 9:30 am and 8:00 pm. It will cost you approximately 11 USD. Make sure to check the times and cost on  TicketsBolivia .

If you want, you can book an organized 1-day tour from La Paz to Uyuni salt flat . At the end of the tour, you will return to La Paz.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Bolivian Salt Flats?

There is no bad time to visit the Bolivia Salt Flats. It really depends on the experience you are looking for.

Rainy season: If you want to see reflections of the salt lake, the rainy season is a good time to visit. The salt flats flood and transform into a massive mirror that reflects the sky and creates an other-worldly experience. During this time of the year there is little to no wind and usually clear skies. Perfect for a photographer. The rainy season in Bolivia is from December to April. Just be aware that during the rainy season a lot of the surrounding attractions are closed.

Dry Season: We visited during the dry season and it was spectacular as well. It is warmer during this time from May to November. Since we visited during the dry season, our SUV produced a giant cloud of dust when we crossed the stunning moon-like landscape of Bolivia’s Andean Plateau making for surreal images.

What you will See on a Bolvian Salt Flats Tour

Isla del pescado.

Have you ever seen an island that is NOT surrounded by water? Welcome to Isla del Pescado, the Fish Island! The Salar de Uyuni has a few islands and we enjoyed an awesome view from the top of this one. From up there, we got an impression of the true dimension of the salty landscape.

Steam Locomotives – Train Graveyard

We arrived in Uyuni and jumped out of the SUV and climbed up the giant wrecked old steam locomotives. At that point, we did not know that the adult’s playground was just behind the corner, Uyuni’s train cemetery. The trains are leftover from a time when they carried minerals from the Salar de Uyuni to the Pacific Ocean.

Bolivia’s Andean Plateau

In the Andean Plateau, at an altitude of about 4,000 meters, not only the air is breathtaking. This is what real adventures look like. This is where the SUV feels at home.

The chain of volcanoes and mountains along the horizon gave us the feeling of being far away from any civilization. And for a second we thought we reached the “end of the world”.

The tracks might look like remains from centuries past but they are still in use and connect Bolivia with Chile. The moon-like landscape surrounded us as we drove on the red and brown sand when unexpectedly, behind a hill, a beautiful lagoon appeared.

Lunar Landscape

The Andean Plateau and its mysterious rock formations have been formed over millions of years through wind and sand. And sometimes nature is very creative and forms rocks like the Arbol de Piedra, the Stone Tree.

Our guide told us before that we would get to see a lagoon more beautiful than the one we had seen before. But we did not want to believe him as we could not imagine that it would be possible.

Hundreds, probably thousands of flamingos were wading through the shallow water in search of food. It was such a contradiction to see an oasis of life in the middle of the barren scenery.

Laguna Colorada

The silence was around us when we approached the Laguna Colorada, the Red Lagoon. Everything around us felt unreal. Do you know how it feels when you see something and cannot believe it is real? It was hard to believe that this lagoon, with its shades of yellow, black, white, red, brown, and the blue sky above it, was not a canvas.

Now and then we saw these little pink spots again, flamingos that enjoyed the delicious alga which makes the water appear red. It was almost sad to see that the last lagoon we visited, the beautiful Green Lagoon with the picturesque volcano in the background was void of flamingos.

As we learned this green type of algae was poisonous. Too bad, the water looked so inviting with those beautiful reflections on the surface.

Sulfur Geysers

Visiting a steaming geyser is a highlight of the Uyuni Salt Flats tour; I was so distracted taking pictures, I almost fell in! It was a very special place our driver took us to watch the sunrise in the early morning.

We were surrounded by geysers and holes in the ground filled with boiling mud. The cold air of the morning intensified the steam and the area looked like a mystic place. After leaving the salt flat we thought it could not get any better. But we were so wrong!

Photos of Salar de Uyuni

The Uyuni Salt Flats is THE photo spot to play with proportions and perspectives when taking photos. It’s a place where people sit on potato chips cans, toy dinosaurs come to life chasing travelers, and jumping over an SUV is a breeze.

On short photo stops, it can be hard to decide whether to take pictures of the scenery or simply take the scenery in. For those inclined to snap, it’s important to pace your photographic zeal. The landscape is so marvelous, it’s simply impossible to catch it all. In other words, it’s a road trip like no other, and absolutely worth doing.

Common Questions About Doing a Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

Do you need an English Speaking Guide?

The answer here is it depends. If you speak fairly fluent Spanish then you can definitely forego an English guide. If you do not speak Spanish at all then we recommend paying the extra money (it can be up to 500 Bs per person) and getting an English guide.

We like to understand our guide as they can provide a lot of background information on the area and there is the added advantage that if you pay extra for the English guide you will have only English speaking people in your car. When you are together for 3 or 4 days this was important to us.

That being said, if you want to save some money and you are on a tight budget, the Spanish-speaking guide is fine. You will be able to make out most of what he is saying anyways. It is important to note that if you opt for the English-speaking guide that there is usually one guide for every 2 or 3 cars from that tour company.

What altitude are you at in the Salar de Uyuni?

You are at altitude when you are in Uyuni, Bolivia. The town itself sits at more than 3500m or 12,000 feet and that is just where you start. During the tour, you will reach altitudes of up to 4800m or 15,000 feet at the Laguna Colorada, in the Eduardo Avaroa National Park. So be prepared.

We recommend spending at least one day in Uyuni before your tour to acclimatize to the altitude. Dring plenty of liquids and don’t exert too much effort physically. You will be out of breath a little on the first day but should get used to the lack of oxygen quickly.

Will it get cold?

The short answer is yes. Even though the weather during the day can be pleasant, you have to remember that you are at altitude so the nights can get quite cold. If you are someone who gets cold easily you might want to bring your own sleeping bag or ask to rent one from the tour operator.

Will I have phone or internet during the tour?

The fact is you will be in the middle of nowhere so there will be little to no internet or phone signal during the entire trip. It is a good time to relax and disconnect from the world and enjoy the nature that is all around you. If you are in desperate need of internet or a phone there is a place on the second day that offers paid internet access.

Cash or Credit Card? Which is Best?

Cash is king when you are on your trip to the salt flats in Bolivia. There are some ATMs in Uyuni but we suggest having local currency on hand before you arrive just in case. Make sure that you have local currency as that is required especially if you want to visit the following:

• National Park Entrance Fee: 150 Bs ($22 USD) per person
• Fish Island: 30 Bs ($5 USD)
• Hot Springs: 6 Bs ($1 USD)

What should I pack?

Packing for the salt flats is really dependent on where you are going to finish your tour. If you are carrying on to The Atacama Desert in Chile you will bring your full backpack. We do suggest putting the everyday items in a day pack so they are easily accessible as your pack will be on the top of the 4X4 each day.

If you are starting and ending in Uyuni then it is possible to leave some items in the hotel so you don’t have to bring everything. That being said, the shifts in temperature can be quite drastic so you want o to be prepared. Here is a list of things you should pack for your tour of the Salt Flats in Bolivia:

• Sunscreen  with high SPF,  sunglasses ,  hat and  lip balm  are a must.
• Layers of warm clothes. Temperature fluctates drastically between day and night.
• Hiking boots (Older ones if you are visiting during the wet season)
• Travel towel for the first night shower and the hot springs.
• Gold Bond: To keep yourself fresh.
• Camera and extra batteries fully charged.
• Water bottle and water. Even if it is provided it is good to have extra.
• Cash in local currency.
• Swimsuit if you pan on going in the hot springs.
• Flip flops or running shoes for at the hotel.

How Do you Describe the Salt Flats in Bolivia?

Salty, white, endless… these three words best describe the Salar de Uyuni. The sun burned from the sky and the reflections from the salt were so strong that it was impossible to open the eyes without sunglasses while looking over the massive salt desert. After a while, the awe can be a bit overwhelming. It’s as if nature is trying to beat you into submission with so many amazing things.

Most Salar de Uyuni tours can feel very start and stop, with the driver rendezvousing with other tourist jeeps at designated points for all-too-rapid photo opportunities. It’s a surreal sight, as the southwest roads of Bolivia appear entirely deserted but for the jeeps gathering in small groups to disgorge their tourist cargo.

Final Thoughts

We drove across Bolivia’s scenic southwest corner, a staggeringly beautiful region bursting with mountains, lagoons, and inactive volcanoes. Equipped with many big containers of drinking water and thick sleeping bags our driver put the SUV into first gear and an amazing adventure through barren surroundings began.

It’s an experience that involves gorgeous vistas, extreme cold, and days without showering.

At the end of our 3-day trip, we were exhausted. Exhausted because of all the incredible things we had seen.

It started with an endless white salt flat, continued with moon-like sandy and dry landscapes of volcanoes and mountains, and ended with the most colorful lagoons we had ever seen. Every one of us needed some time to digest the past days.

There are many amazing places on our blue planet but the Salar de Uyuni and everything around it truly belongs to one of its most beautiful places! The Salar de Uyuni remains one of the world’s most fantastic locations–and since it’s in Bolivia, one of the most affordable, too.

Bolivia’s frontier feel means the trip sometimes seems akin to stepping out of the charted territory, onto a succession of different planets.

Sticking Around Bolivia

But while the Salar is undoubtedly a highlight, the rough remainder of Bolivia should not be ignored.  From the grungy mining city of Potosi to the gothic streets of La Paz to the verdant j ungle reaches of the Amazon, Bolivia is filled with breathtaking and bizarre sights. Once you’ve seen the Salar (or even before), consider sticking around to take a few extra destinations in. 

If you’re looking to venture along the edge of the world or race across some of nature’s most striking vistas, there is no better destination. So strap in, buckle up, and don’t forget to bring shades. There’s a white desert waiting, made of salt and blinding sunlight.

Have you been to the Bolivia Salt Flats? What do you think? Is Bolivia’s Andean Plateau one of the most beautiful places in the world?

This article was originally written by Liane and Lars of bobaroundtheworld.com who have since stopped blogging, but we have kept it on ThePlanetD as it is a destination that is worth visiting.

Plan Your Next Trip to south America with These Resources

• All You Need to know about the Top 10 Best Hikes in South America

10 Reasons You Should Travel To Bolivia

• Everything You Need to Know About Visiting the Bolivian Amazon
• 5 Things to do in Bolivia
• Chile Travel Guide

Travel Planning Resources

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Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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11 thoughts on “Salar de Uyuni – How to Visit The Bolivia Salt Flats”

Chile is a very nice place to visit.

This is relay amazing picture. i am from country of world hugest peak Mt Everest 8848 m and light of Asia. Nepal is on of the best destination for hiking and sightseeing, so traveler get lots of opportunity to take unlimited amazing capture during the adventure and the tour. where the incredible scenery attract to the traveler as well as photographer to explore them on unique feature. which may motive to the traveler.

What a great photo and article, this is really awesome!! thanks for sharing with us and keep posting such a great pics

Me from Everest Country Nepal, As a traveler all pics are so amazing and thanks for sharing such a great pics and articles. We have the big mountains like Everest 8848m. but we don’t have such awesome places.You are a really wonderful photographer.

wow, this are the most beautiful pictures, I rally love it, thanks for sharing

Incredible adventure. Hope that you have enjoyed a lot on this trip.

Appreciate for your great effort to share your travel experience.

Great Adventure. There is a quietness and bareness of these lands that makes you feel like you are at the end of the world. The flamingos in the salt/soda lakes are similar to what we have in Kenya and Tanzania lakes nakuru, bogoria and lake manyara. Awesome.

Wow, what an incredible place! I’ve seen tonnes of photos of the flats but never of the surrounding regions/sites/wonders. Great insight into somewhere I’d absolutely love to visit! Thank you.

Wow, incredible journey. It seems like you have enjoyed your trip. Awesome photographs. Your blog is very informative to all those travelers who pursue adventure. Appreciate it for sharing your travel experience.

Incredible pictures! you shared awesome place to visit and great detail.. Really want to go there, Thank you so much for sharing a nice experiences.. keep posting!

Awesome photos guys. What company did you go with and did you like going with them?

The Best Tours in Uyuni

The Bolivian Salt Flats have become Bolivia’s most popular attraction and a must-see for anyone traveling through South America. Their otherworldly nature and surreal beauty attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year. Read below to find everything you need to choose the perfect Salar de Uyuni tour!

Quick tips:

• If you have a bit more time, choose a 3 or 4 Day Tour to get to enjoy everything Salar de Uyuni has to offer!
• Unfortunately, there have been cases of tour operators scamming tourists who try to book a tour when they arrive to the salt flats. If possible, book in advance through a trusted operator.
• Findlocaltrips.com is a highly recommended website that finds and compares local tour operators. Check them out to find the best Salar de Uyuni tours.

Salar de Uyuni tour options

With the natural beauty of Salar de Uyuni and all its breathtaking surroundings, it’s no wonder the Bolivia Salt Flat is one of the world’s most popular tours. Luckily, theres an option for all travelers, whether short on time or traveling at a slower pace. Let’s take a look in more detail.

One-day tours are a great way for those who don’t have much time to see the salt flats. Due to the time restriction, you won’t get a chance to visit the incredible surrounding attractions. However, you will be far from disappointed when you leave as these tours still give you plenty of time to soak in the magic of Salar de Uyuni and capture jaw-dropping photos that you didn’t even know were possible.

One-day tours can only be taken from Uyuni. Buses arrive here very early in the morning to allow enough time for those on board to do take the tour the day they arrive. These tours start at around 10am and finish at around 5pm, allowing enough time for those on the tour to catch an overnight bus to their next destination.

The historical and intriguing train graveyard is the first stop on the one-day tours. This is followed by Colchani, the salt production site, where you will be taught the process of producing salt and visit one of the iconic salt hotels. A trip to Isla Incahuasi follows, where you’ll be able to discover giant cacti up to 10m high, incredible rock formations made of petrified coral and a enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the tremendous salt flats.

Lunch is also served here as groups get their props at the ready for crazy, perspective photos set on the blinding white surface of the salt flats. The tour ends in magnificent fashion as you observe the sun magically set over the flats.

1 Day Tour include:

• The train graveyard
• A Salt hotel
• Isla Incahuasi

Recommended 1 Day Tour

Uyuni Salt Flat Full Day Tour

Red Planet Expedition

Perla de Bolivia

3/4 Day Tour

The most popular and recommended way to discover Salar de Uyuni is by taking a 3 or 4 day tour in a 4×4 jeep. Three day tours depart from either Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama and finish in Uyuni. The three day tour starting in San Pedro de Atacama and ending in Uyuni is ideal for those looking to continue traveling north after their visit to Salar de Uyuni. Alternatively, you can do the 4 day tour which starts and finishes in San Pedro de Atacama. This tour visits the same places as the 3 day tours but requires an extra night in order to make the relatively long journey back to Chile.

Day one is the same as the one day tour – departing from Uyuni at the same time and visiting the same places. Following a long day of exploring, you will spend the first night in one of the iconic salt hotels or salt hostels. These remarkable designs are made up almost entirely of salt blocks, from the bed and toilet to the walls and ceilings. Get yourself an early night sleep here as days two and three begin at the crack of dawn, with breakfast at 7am and 5am respectively. Across the next two days you will see everything that Salar de Uyuni has to offer. Of course, you will also be given plenty of time to capture an abundance of photos of one of the picturesque places on Earth The second night is spent in very basic accommodation beside the Polques hot springs, where you will find yourself blown away by the magical stars of the Salar.

The itinerary for those who start their tour in San Pedro de Atacama is reversed as they visit the desert, lagoons, hot springs etc. at the beginning of the tour and the salt flat at the end. The third night of the 4 day tour is spent in a basic hostel in Villa Mar village. You will wake up at 4.30 am to continue your journey, finally arriving back to San Pedro de Atacama at around 2pm.

3/4 Day Tour include:

• The lagoons Polques hot springs
• Arbol de Piedra
• Valle de Rocas
• Sol de Mañana geyser
• Dali Desert
• San Cristobal de Lipez
• A salt hotel
• Chiguana desert

Recommended 3/4 Day Tour

Uyuni Salt Flat Tour 3 Days / 2 Nights

Visit the largest salt mine

in the world in 2021

• Av. Ferroviaria Nro. 332 (entre Av. Arce y Sucre)
• [email protected]
• +591.72418032
• Special tour: 1 day tour plus star tour
• Special tour: 2 days and 1 night plus stars tour
• Classic tour: 3 days and 2 nights
• Private Tour: 4 days and 3 nights
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Golden Sunrise

Pionners and founders of tourism in uyuni, extreme paragliding, surreal photography, expedition in 4x4, bath in hot springs, train cemeteries, uyuni tours: verified, experienced, safety-focused., uyuni tours bolivia.

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• CLASSIC UYUNI SALT FLATS & EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE - 4 DAYS

UYUNI SALT FLATS & EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE - 4 DAYS

ITINERARY DRY SEASON

Uyuni to mallku villamar.

Our journey begins in Uyuni, Bolivia. We meet you at your hotel or at the airport if you are flying from La Paz or Santa Cruz. We leave Uyuni behind and travel southwards through the Altiplano - the Andean highlands that stretch for thousands of kilometers - after making a short stop at the Train Cemetery just out of Uyuni.

Our drive is quite smooth on a wide dirt road that leads to several town of southwestern Potosi department. We stop at San Cristobal town, home to Bolivia’s largest open-pit mine. The town has gone through a restoration and improvement period, boasting a beautiful colonial-era church and colorful market that serves as a break on our drive.

Leaving San Cristobal we continue our drive headed southwest and stop at the hidden Black Lagoon on the way. We continue toward the ‘valley of rocks’ where we have the opportunity to walk among giant boulders shaped as anything your imagination can make of. Another attraction of the day is the ‘Anaconda Canyon” where the jaw-dropping views are unmatched.

Later in the afternoon we have the opportunity to visit another small, secret lagoon that allows for some wildlife viewing and scenic hike.

We will then arrive at the village of Mallku Villamar where we spend the night with fresh dinner/supper and a warm bed.

ACCOMMODATION BASIC: Simple room, shared bathroom, may have lukewarm shower STANDARD: Simple private room with private bathroom & hot shower PLUS: Jardines de Mallku Cueva

MEALS INCLUDED LUNCH, DINNER

Eduardo Avaroa Reserve

This morning we leave Mallku Villamar and continue our drive south headed for Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina Eduardo Avaroa as it is known, is Bolivia’s most visited protected area and with good reason. Among the natural highlights we will be delighted with, are Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon), Desierto de Siloli, Polques hot springs, Sol de Mañana geyser field and Laguna Colorada - Red Lagoon - with its thousands of pink flamingos.

It will be an intense day but full of dramatic and otherworldly sights. It’s a remote, high altitude desert region, so accommodation options are very limited but we have lodging ready for us to spend the night and get ready for more adventure the following day.

ACCOMMODATION BASIC: Basic dormitory-style shared accommodation with shared, unisex bathroom. No hot shower STANDARD: Simple private room with private bathroom. Lukewarm shower PLUS: Hotel Tayka del Desierto

MEALS INCLUDED BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

SPECIAL INFORMATION Accommodation is very basic to say the least on our Basic and Standard packages. The buildings are built with rock bricks from the area and are unheated. At 4500m it is a cold night combined with altitude, so it’s advised you bring warm clothes and take altitude medication if your doctor has prescribed any. It is the trip’s most basic night but most travelers are able to go through it with plenty of blankets provided and warm layers

Lagunas & flamingos

Today we continue our expedition now headed north and experience a number of exciting places along the way. For starters, we stop at Arbol de Piedra (Stone Tree, visited a day earlier if taking our Plus package). Located in the middle of [nowhere] the Siloli Desert, the Stone Tree is a quirky rock formation famous for its tree shape caused by thousands of years’ erosion.

The afternoon will be dedicated to visiting a chain of several lagoons known as the ‘Andean jewels’. The real highlight are the hundreds of pink flamingos that you can photograph up close and the pristine isolation of each lagoon.

By the end of the day we will have reached the proximity of the trip’s grand finale: Salar de Uyuni. We reach our accommodation in a small village where warm dinner and bed await.

ACCOMMODATION BASIC: Simple room, shared bathroom, hot shower in southern rim of Salar de Uyuni STANDARD: Private room with private bathroom and hot shower in southern rim of Salar de Uyuni PLUS: Hotel de Sal Tayka in northern rim of Salar de Uyuni

SPECIAL INFORMATION If you take our Plus package we will already enter the salt flats today as far as the northern rim which will allow for visiting more places the following day.

Uyuni Salt Flats & Incahuasi Island

Salar de Uyuni is probably best known for its hexagon-shaped patterns and giant cactus islands, but there is much more to see. In the northern end of the flats, where we will have spent our previous night (Plus), the awe-inspiring Volcan Thunupa offers several hiking opportunities along its base. If you would like to have a break from driving and get active, this morning we will explore this less-known area, as well as other interesting sites in along the northern rim. If you took our Basic or Plus packages, we will explore the southern rim instead, since we will have spent the previous night there

We'll have plenty of free time to have lunch in the middle of the salt flats and test our photography skills to get the best deep-perspective, fun photographs (bring props along).

We will then go across onto Incahuasi Island and here we will see the giant cacti and have the opportunity to do a second mild hike to its top. This is a great place to get a 360-degree view of the salt flats.

At the end of the day, we exit the salt flats via the village of Colchani where we have a brief stop at its colorful market before driving to the town of Uyuni where the tour ends around 6 PM.

MEALS INCLUDED BREAKFAST, LUNCH

ITINERARY RAINY SEASON

ACCOMMODATION BASIC: Simple room, shared bathroom, hot shower in southern rim of Salar de Uyuni STANDARD: Private room with private bathroom and hot shower in southern rim of Salar de Uyuni PLUS: Any of the following salt hotels in order of preference and availability: Hotel Palacio de Sal, Luna Salada, Cristal Samaña

SPECIAL INFORMATION Unlike the dry-season itinerary, our Plus package provides accommodation in the western rim of the salt flats instead of the northern

Uyuni Salt Flats

The rains falling from December to April flood the entire surface of the salt flats creating a surreal ‘mirror’ that reflects the entire sky. Thousands of people from around the world flock to Bolivia to experience the reflection created by this natural phenomenon. But don’t worry, the salt flats are so huge there is plenty of space for everyone, although it is impossible to reach Incahuasi Island and drive more than only a few kilometers from the shore of the salt flats.

The whole day will be spent enjoying the ‘mirror effect’, taking surreal photographs and enjoying a unique lunch in the middle of the flooded flats. We will await sunset to experience this unforgettable experience before we exit the flats for the town of Uyuni where our tour ends around 6 PM.

SPECIAL INFORMATION If you would like to take your time to see sunset, we advise not to take a flight to La Paz on this day. Please note that driving is impossible when the flats are flooded. Driving is done extremely slowly and accessibility to places is very limited

IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

• This trip covers around 100 Km in four days of off road driving at high altitude and cold climate. It is recommended you prepare accordingly and read the itinerary before booking
• It is ideal if you like to get off the beaten track and away from the crowds by doing the usual 3-day itinerary in reverse, thus having most stops to yourself at different times from the rest
• It is possible to take this trip if you want to go to San Pedro de Atacama at the end of the trip although the order of attractions will be modified every day, keeping all the places mentioned
• Please note that the itinerary is modified during the rainy months of Jan to April

PLEASE NOTE THAT PARK AND OTHER SITES' ADMISSION FEES - IF APPLICABLE - ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE (READ BELOW)

WHY TAKE THIS TRIP WITH US?

• We are a tour operator, not a travel agency. This means that we organize this trip by putting everything from transport to accommodation providers together to make sure it works as flawlessly as possible. Our trusted providers have been tried and tested and we put our name confidently up front because we trust the safety and reliability they offer. A travel agency merely books you with a tour operator earning a commission for themselves and not giving a lot of care to your experience
• We put safety at the top of our list of priorities. We know Bolivia inside out and the roads, towns, villages, deserts, etc. that are safe to travel through. By using our services, you can rest assured that we will get you to your destination at the end of every day safely

WHAT TO BRING?

• Camera/drone
• Effective sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Warm layers as temperatures drop considerably in the evenings and mornings
• Bathing suit, sandals
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Money in Bolivianos for personal spending (drinks, souvenirs, tips, etc).

IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO CONSIDER

• The itinerary may suffer changes without previous notice due to factors outside our direct control such as weather and road conditions. If we are forced to alter the itinerary in any way, it will be based on good judgment and necessary amendments for your own safety and comfort and you will be promptly notified. We never alter or skip attractions in the itinerary without explaining the reasoning behind any possible change and providing adequate proof that such change may be necessary. Therefore, you should not take the above itinerary as “set in stone” and we will not he held liable for any loss or damage that you may feel arising from such changes made
• Please note that the itinerary differs in the rainy season from the itinerary in the dry season. We will not be held liable/responsible for failure to read this information
• This region is a remote area that lacks the usual comforts of the modern world. You should not expect high standards of accommodation, hot water is available most of the time (according to respective package) and electricity is available for a few hours or more where possible.
• Food is handled hygienically and it is our priority and job that you are satisfied with the limited resources available in this region. Vegetarians are welcome, but should not expect special menus as we do what we can to serve appropriate portions of vegetables and fruit in the vegetarian menu
• During the rainy season (December to March/April) some parts of the salt flats may be inaccessible such as Incahuasi Island and time on the actual salt flats is limited. Most of the regular itinerary is followed as normal

OPEN DATES & FIXED DEPARTURES

The following are dates in which other people have shown interest in forming a group for this tour. Use the ENQUIRY tab to request a new date or join one of the dates below to form a group and obtain the respective price. The number of interested persons is shown for your reference and you will be updated via email if other people are interested in the same date. If your party consist of four persons, we suggest booking a tour outright to confirm departure.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Private transportation from Uyuni to Uyuni four days
• Bilingual guide (English-Spanish) or digital guide in IOS or Android app (price varies)
• 3 nights accommodation according to selected package
• 4 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 breakfasts

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

• National park and other sites’ admission fees: Approx. 210 BOB (30 USD, only local currency accepted)
• Soft/fizzy and alcoholic drinks
• Optional tips/gratuities (suggested)

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Uyuni Salt Flats Tour In Bolivia – A Complete Guide

A Uyuni Salt Flats Tour is a must-do on everyone’s Bolivia itinerary!

Uyuni Salt Flats (also known as Salar de Uyuni) is the world’s largest salt flat, stretching for more than 11,000km². It truly is one of the most remarkable vistas on planet earth!

I spent one full day exploring the incredible Bolivia Salt Flats and have put together this detailed guide with everything you need to know about the Uyuni Salt Flats Tour including where to book and what to expect.

Table of Contents

WHERE IS SALAR DE UYUNI?

The Uyuni Salt Flats are so massive that it actually crosses the borders of three countries in South America – Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Click here to see the location on Google maps.

Most Salar de Uyuni tours operate out of Uyuni in Bolivia, a small dusty town approximately 540kms south of La Paz.

HOW TO GET TO SALAR DE UYUNI

There are two options to consider when looking at how to get to Salar de Uyuni and they are by bus or plane.

Bus from La Paz to Uyuni:

The cheapest and most common way of reaching Uyuni is by taking an overnight bus from La Paz to Uyuni and the journey takes around 8 hours.

You can book your bus ticket online in advance for just $30 USD and the bus leaves from Terminal De Buses Lapaz.

You can then travel back from Uyuni to La Paz by bus after the one-day Salt Flats Tour.

La Paz to Uyuni flights:

A faster and more convenient way of reaching Salar de Uyuni is by taking a 50-minute flight from La Paz to Joya Andina Airport in Uyuni.

La Paz to Uyuni flights operates on a daily basis.

The BEST Backpack For Backpacking!

Less is more with the Atmos AG 50L , the newest arrival in the Osprey backpacking range!

From weekend explorations to month-long expeditions, this EPIC backpack is up to the task and will stand the test of time.

WHERE TO BOOK A UYUNI SALT FLATS TOUR?

There are dozens of tour operators and offices located in both Uyuni and La Paz to book a Uyuni Tour, but in my experience, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which operator to book a tour through without being ripped off.

Alternatively, you can book your tour online in advance to avoid the hassle of having to organize a trip once you have arrived.

I recommend finding a tour that best suits you on the Get Your Guide website . They have thousands of travel deals worldwide that are affordable and reliable!

Click Here to search for all Salar Uyuni Tours and book online ahead of time.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE TOUR

A one-day Uyuni Salt Flat Tour not only includes a 4×4 trip out onto the world’s largest salt flat but also a visit to the Uyuni Train Cemetery, lunch at a local restaurant, salt museum and village markets, Hotel de Sal (the world’s first salt hotel), giant cacti at Incahuasi island and an unforgettable sunset at the largest mirror in the world!

The tour begins at 10 am and finishes after sunset at around 6 pm.

Book Now → Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

Best time to visit bolivia salt flats.

The best time to visit Bolivia Salt Flats, funnily enough, is in the rainy season which is December to April in order to witness the reflective mirror effect on the salt flats.

During the dry season, from May to November, temperatures are much cooler and the ground hardens.

The peak season is typically from June to August and prices are known to rise during this time.

SALAR DE UYUNI FACTS

Before visiting, here are some Salar de Uyuni facts you may find interesting:

• Uyuni altitude is 3,700m above sea level
• The salt flats measure 11,000km² making it the world’s largest salt flat
• 11 billion tonnes of salt are believed to be within Salar de Uyuni
• NASA uses Uyuni Salt Flats to figure out the positioning of its satellites
• Formed by prehistoric lakes that evaporated long ago
• Pink flamingos have been spotted at Uyuni

WHERE TO STAY IN LA PAZ

La Paz has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of my favorite places to stay in La Paz to fit the needs of budget backpackers and luxury travelers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury:  Ritz Apart Hotel

Ritz Apart Hotel, a modern 5-star hotel centrally located in La Paz, provides air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms, a fitness center, hot tub, sauna, in-house restaurant, room service, and free WiFi.

Perfect for travelers with a larger budget.

Mid Range:  Selina La Paz

Selina La Paz is a 3-star property that is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers!

Great location in La Paz offering double, triple, and dormitory rooms at an affordable price. Selina also features a billiards table, an in-house restaurant, and a bar for all guests.

Budget:  The Rooftop Bolivia

The Rooftop Bolivia is rated one of the best accommodations in La Paz for budget travelers.

Featuring a bar, shared lounge, city views, restaurant, shared kitchen, free wifi, and a nightclub!

The Rooftop has dorms and private rooms available and breakfast is included.

For all other La Paz accommodations, Search on Booking.com

What to pack for bolivia.

When visiting Bolivia, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you;

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

MORE CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA TRAVEL GUIDES

• Mexico: 4 Week Mexico Itinerary
• Cuba: 10 Day Cuba Itinerary
• Peru: Backpacking Peru – 3 Week Itinerary
• Bolivia: Things To Do In Bolivia
• Brazil: 2 Day Rio De Janeiro Itinerary
• Argentina: Things To Do In Argentina
• Chile: Things To Do In Chile

FINAL THOUGHTS – SALAR DE UYUNI TOUR

If you have any questions about Salar de Uyuni, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

PIN IT FOR LATER

4 thoughts on “Uyuni Salt Flats Tour In Bolivia – A Complete Guide”

Hey Jonny, Thank you for the insightful blog.

I am not sure if they are still running the 50-minute flight from La Paz to Joya Andina Airport in Uyuni or if they still operate on a daily basis as I am unable to find any direct flight from La Paz airport to Uyuni. I understand you took the overnight bus but do you know by any chance the name of the airline that goes directly there and how to find it online?

Hey Ali, unfortunately I am not sure about this flight, perhaps since the pandemic things may have changed. I hope you can find your way and have a safe trip!

Hey Jonny, We are planning our South America trip for next year. A question about using the overnight bus to and from La Paz to Uyuni Salt Flats with the 1 day tour like you did. Did you travel with only a day pack? And if so where did you leave your main bag? Or did you travel with your main bag as well and then what did you do with it during the tour? Many thanks Natalie x

Hi Natalie, great question, I traveled with just an overnight bag and left my main luggage in storage at my hotel in La Paz, they had no issues holding it for me so this is something that I’m sure you could do also! Have a great trip!

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Bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats 4WD Tour

Tour the Uyuni Salt flats in 4WD with English-speaking guides staying in salt hotels.

Uyuni is a stunning wilderness area – called Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia – and our four wheel drive jeep tour showcases the highlights.

We pass by beautiful volcanoes, coloured lakes and dramatic deserts, and visit the Stone Tree, Dali’s desert and more.

Amazingly, wildlife survives in this harsh but beautiful environment, with flamingos, llamas and viscachas living here.

More on Uyuni Salt Flats 4WD tour

The trip here starts and finishes in Uyuni, but we can arrange for the tour to start and/or finish in Chile’s San Pedro de Atacama if that suits you better.

Starting in Uyuni, we head out into the vast southern desert and enjoy the starkly beautiful landscapes of this dramatic desert wilderness.

The network of salt hotels we use are newly built, of a high standard (3/4 star) and in keeping with the local environment.

The hotels were built in partnership with four local communities, each actively involved in their construction and running, and benefit directly from the income.

Trip Highlights

Outstanding scenery as you cross the Salar de Uyuni vast salt flats on this 4WD tour.

Visit the salt mounds, and see the process for the mining of salt.

Enjoy the vast southern Bolivian desert landscapes and Daliesque weathered rock shapes.

Search for Bolivian desert wildlife, such as viscachas and flamingos.

At night marvel at the star-filled clear desert sky.

Experience the local traditional culture and see how people survive in this remote, harsh environment.

I had a fantastic time in the Salar. The place is extraordinary and beyond anything I imagine even from the photos I saw before getting there.

F. Maxwell, Uyuni tour

Full Itinerary

Day 1: uyuni to salt factory, incahuasi island, pucara chillima, tahua village, tahua salt hotel (l,d).

We will pick you up at your hotel at 10.00.

Today we have an unforgettable journey through 12,000 km² of fantastic landscapes of salt.

Prepare your camera! The dazzling white mantle of the Uyuni Salt Flat resembles an immense ice-field.

In the winter (dry season, from May to October), when the surface hardens, geometrical formations start appearing formed by salt particles conglomerating into polygons.

In summer (rainy season, November to February), the saline desert transforms into a gigantic mirror that melts into the purest sky in America.

We drive onto the salt flat at the village of Colchani, centre of the salt factories. We visit one of these and learn about the families that are dependent on salt mining for their livelihoods.

We then visit the part of the salt plains where mounds of salt are collected, and from here we will head towards Incahuasi Island. You can set off to climb to the summit where you get a fabulous view, 360 degrees.

We have a box lunch on the island and then head toward the dominant and magic Volcano Thunupa whose slopes house the Chantani Museum. The museum is home to ceramics and silent mummies. We drive some way up the volcano and visit the Coquesa Mummies museum.

We will spend the night in the Tayka Salt Hotel*.

*Please note, on Wednesday departures we will stay at Hotel Luna Salada.

Day 2: Ojo de Perdiz, lagoons and coloured deserts, Hotel Takya of the Desert (B,L,D)

We leave the salt flat and head to Charagua, a pretty place of corals and goat farmers.

It may take us one hour, via a bumpy road, to arrive at the Burnt Town of San Pedro de Quemes, where we will leave the car to go and wander through its small streets and view the buildings which have inspired the hotel Tayka of Stone.

We take lunch in the Hotel of Stone. There is an optional Shepherding of Llamas trip, spending an hour or so helping a shepherd or shepherdess with the llamas, a vital part of life in the Salar.

In the afternoon we drive towards the lagoons – Cañapa, Hedionda, Chiarkota, Honda and Ramaditas, replete with flamingoes happy to be photographed!

Other birds, such as Andean gulls and ducks, accompany the flamingoes in these lagoons, which are flanked by snow-capped volcanoes.

Next we enter the deserts of sand. These fantastic deserts are owners of the whole palette of terracottas. Red, oranges, ochers, coffees and beige – every bend in the road there are more colours,  fighting for your attention.

In front of the most impressive of these palettes of colours is the Hotel Tayka of the Desert, with private bathrooms, hot water and environmental heating waiting for us.

Day 3: Ojo de Perdiz, Green and Red Lagoons and return to Uyuni or on to San Pedro de Atacama, tour ends (B,L)

An early start today at 05.30, towards the Eduardo Avaroa and Flora and Andean Fauna Reserve and then the famous Stone Tree – perfect for a picture.

Next we travel to the Red Lagoon to observe the great population of flamingoes, then we’ll see the Morning Sun Geysers to catch them at their most active moment. This will be the highest point on our route, we will be at nearly 5,000m/16,404ft.

Here, noisy fumaroles and splooshing mud puddles make the earth seem to boil in reddish, grizzly, scarlet mud.

The desert and salt flat of Chalviri is another superb scene. It combines the dazzling white, the ochres of the desert, the blue of the water, and, in one of its corners, we can to take a dip in the hot springs of Polques.

Today is a day full of highlights, as next in line is Ladies of the Desert, a master piece created by the the wind and the Andean peaks around, with crazily shaped rocks in fantastic colours, all moulded by the winds.

Nearby is the Green Lagoon, at the foot of Volcano Licancabur, another pearl of the reserve.

From the Green Lagoon we return to the Red Lagoon, have lunch, and then watch as the shifting sun helps to change its colour from a woody red to a blood red colour.

We return via Villa Mar to Uyuni, and the tour with a drop off at the bus station.

(We can arrange drop-offs at San Pedra de Atacama, too – extra cost).

Overnight tourist bus departure at 20.00 and arrives at La Paz at approx. 07.00.

Prices From $905 / £736 per person

Enquire about booking

What's Included?

All meals except first breakfast and last dinner, 4wd vehicle, English speaking driver/ guide, accommodation in 3 star community run hotels full board & ensuite bathrooms

What's Not Included?

Flights, tips, personal items, drinks at hotels, Uyuni hotels, transport to Uyuni, Llama shepherding USD 17pp, entry fees USD 45pp (can be included)

Accommodation

Community owned and run hotels.

The hotels we use are built of local materials, salt or stone, and are designed to be as ecologial as possible in this fragile environment. All rooms have a private bathroom with solar hot water and heating.

This is one of the poorest parts of Bolivia where there is a problem of depopulation as local Aymara communities really struggle to survive. The hotels are on land rented from the communities and will be passed entirely into community hands in 15 years.

It is possible to offer this trip with more basic, simple guesthouse accommodation at a lower cost. The rooms will be more basic but will count with an ensuite or private bathroom and heating. Hot water may not work 24 hours a day. Please ask for more details.

You will be accompanied by an English speaking driver guide.

There is also the option to reduce the cost by travelling with a Spanish speaking driver only. They will give brief explanations in Spanish at each site, but are not a qualified guides and may only have a word or two of English.

Vegetarians and many other dietary requirements are catered for without problems. Please let us know in advance of any requirements you have.

Meals are provided at hotels – breakfasts usually involve hot drinks, coffee, juice, toast, eggs and fruits. Lunch will either be sandwiches and snacks (if on the road) or a soup with a main meal of rice/pasta.

Dinner usually consists of a soup to start and then a main of rice, pasta, mashed potato etc. Note that Uyuni remains a very remote area and sometimes choice is limited.

Each hotel has a restaurant offering buffet style meals with as much local produce as possible.

Activity Level

This trip is open to people with a penchant for exploring, with a positive attitude and outlook.

The days are not strenuous, in walking terms, but we are out and about seeing things on a daily basis. Dust can be a problem and quite extremes of temperature, warm in the day and cold at night the moment the sun goes down.

You don’t need a specific fitness level as such, but to be adaptable, enjoy being outdoors and viewing sites etc.

We recommend several days at altitude before setting off, to help acclimatise to the high altitude.

Practical Information

An introduction to bolivia.

Land-locked Bolivia is a country of dramatic landscapes and fascinating native cultures and traditions.

The Altiplano or “High Plain”, averaging 3,800m, is its most populous region. The vast, luminous plateau is flanked to east and west by parallel Andean ranges.

La Paz, the world’s highest capital, lies in a deep canyon at the edge of the Altiplano, and at the foot of Illimani (6,400m). It is a striking city for its dramatic setting and its strong Indian character.

Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake. It was sacred to the Incas; according to legend, their founding emperor-gods rose from these waters to give birth to their empire. Just south of the lake stands the sacred pre-Inca site of Tiahuanaco.

Geography of Bolivia

On the south-western Altiplano are the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest in the world. Here, the shimmering white salt pan and deep blue sky combine to create a truly magical spectacle.

The stunning Cordillera Real is a mountain range dominated by huge snow peaks, including Illimani and Illampu (6,380m). The Real divides the northern Altiplano from the tropical forests to the east. The Cordillera Real’s eastern slopes are characterized by the deep, sub-tropical Yungas gorges.

Further south, the tropical Chapare is the agricultural heart of Bolivia. East of this band of high forests and plantations lies Bolivia’s Oriente, a vast swathe of Amazonian jungle and savanna accounting for 2/3 of the country and featuring some of the last untouched wilderness on earth.

In the north-eastern Department of Beni, some 50% of the country’s mammals and birds reside. Below, and in no special order, we outline some of the top places to go and things to do.

Weather in Bolivia

Bolivia lies within the tropics, between latitudes 10º and 22º south. The climate, as varied as its geography, is affected by latitude and, especially, by altitude.

The best time to travel is the winter (dry season) between May and Oct when, typically, weather systems over the Andes are stable, and overall you can expect bright sunny days and cold clear nights. Most of the rain falls from Dec to March. Climate can be divided into these distinct zones:

The Andes and the Altiplano

There is relatively little precipitation on the Altiplano, especially in the dry season – most rainfall is from Dec to March. However, there is periodical, localised rain on high peaks and valleys all year round.

The further south and west you go on the Altiplano, the drier are the conditions; around Uyuni, semi-arid conditions prevail. The Andean sun’s rays are very strong.

Temperature-wise, the Andes and Altiplano experience significant fluctuations over a single day. At 4,000m, the pre-dawn temperature can drop to -15ºC, while noon temperatures at the same location can reach 20ºC.

Southerly cold winds mean the southern Altiplano is not only drier, but also noticeably colder and windier than the north (pre-dawn temperatures at Uyuni in July regularly drop to -20ºC).

On treks in the Cordillera Real in the dry season, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m (where pre-dawn temperatures sometimes reach -15ºC); warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings. Conditions are generally dry, but note that mountain weather is fickle and localised, and precipitation is not unusual in the dry season.

Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.

The city of La Paz (3,630m) is relatively sheltered. Average high/low temperatures range from 1-17ºC in June and July (coldest months) to 6-19ºC in Nov and Dec (warmest months). In June and July, it rarely rains more than 1 or 2 days per month, while in January there are on average 15 wet days.

The tropical lowlands & yunga (Amazon)

Year-round, weather conditions in the Amazon basin are hot and humid and always with the chance of rain.

There is a  ‘cooler’, drier winter season between May and October. During this ‘dry season’, the average daytime high temperature is between 25-31°C and the average nighttime low is between 16-22°C.

In the dry season, heavy downpours typically occur every few days.

Note that around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Bolivia’s northern lowlands – occurs in the wet season, Nov-April.

On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – surazos – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9°C. (Surazos usually last between 1 and 3 days).

The Yungas shares the same dry/wet months but varies from quite wet to very wet depending on whether it is the ‘dry’ or rainy season. Average temperature is 24°C.

Good kit is vital for every trip.

Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s  fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.

Bolivia has an incredibly local and varied set of weather systems, which means you need to be prepared for almost every eventuality.

When planning for these changeable climatic conditions you will encounter across Bolivia, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system.

The sun is very strong throughout the country, so good sun cream, a hat and sunglasses are vital.

It can also get very cold at night time especially in the mountains and in cities like La Paz. Jumpers, fleeces and warms hats – which you can buy there – are also essential.

It can rain at any time, so always have a poncho/waterproof jacket handy.

Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.

Below is a more detailed guide.

Detailed kit list

• Medium weight parka or a down jacket.
• Waterproof jacket and trousers. The jacket needs to be water proof and roomy. Side-zip pants are recommended.
• 2-3 long-sleeve shirts – no cotton
• 2-3 short-sleeve T-shirts – no cotton
• 2 pair of hiking trousers- cotton or synthetic material (no jeans)
• 1 fleece or sweat trousers (for cold evenings)
• 2 pair hiking shorts
• Long thermals – synthetic or wool – light to medium weight top & bottoms.
• 2-3 mid-weight (wool or synthetic) socks.
• 2-3 liner socks if needed
• Athletic-type socks, several pairs, city use
• Hiking boots that are waterproof and well broken-in.
• Running/tennis shoes or sandals are very comfortable when you are in cities
• 1 lightweight wool sweater or windproof fleece
• 1 wool or synthetic warm hat.
• 1 light sun hat with a wide brim.
• 1 pair of medium-weight wool or synthetic gloves
• Broad-brimmed sunhat, essential.
• Sunglasses with UV filter.
• Scarf for cold.
• Bandanna – to protect neck from strong sun.
• Daypack (at least 30 litres). Comfortable and with waterproof lining or cover.
• Water bottle (2 litres approx.) & purification tablets.
• Personal first-aid kit to include: painkillers, plasters (band-aids), moleskin, anti-biotic cream, general antibiotics (ask your GP), after-bite (tiger balm), anti-diarrhoea tablets, throat lozenges, re-hydration salts & personal medication.
• Insect repellent (just in case)
• Towel & wash-kit.
• Wet Wipes/antiseptic hand-wash cream.
• Sunscreen (factor 30+) and lip salve.
• Head-lamp (plus spare bulb and batteries).
• Travel alarm clock.
• Plastic bags – ‘Zip-loc’ & tough bin liners.
• Camera and film / memory cards (take at least twice the amount you think you will need!).
• Book, e-book, mp3 player/ipod or other to help pass the time.
• Binoculars.
• Spanish/English phrasebook.
• Extra snacks i.e. cereal bars or favourite chocolate bars.

Miscellaneous others

• Money belt.
• U.S. dollars cash, mixed-denomination notes, undamaged and unmarked.
• ATM cash/credit card.
• Any inoculation certificates.
• Personal & medical insurance certificates.
• Presents e.g. Postcards from home.
• Comfortable clothes for travel, smart clothes for night life.

ATOL holiday protection

Andean Trails has 25 years of experience of putting together the best South America holidays.

We pay a fee to the CAA for every licensable passenger we book since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

We also offer ATOL (Civil Aviation Authority) protected holidays to give our customers peace of mind when booking and travelling.

When you buy an ATOL protected air holiday package from Andean Trails Ltd you will receive a Confirmation Invoice from us confirming your arrangements and your protection under our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 6275.

You can read more about ATOL, who is covered and what protections you have if not ATOL-covered, on our ATOL page.

What is ATOL?

The CAA’s ATOL scheme offers protection to your money and your holiday if you book with us. Not everybody is covered (see ‘Who is covered?’ for more), as you must purchase an ‘air package holiday’ with Andean Trails to be protected.

And  ‘air package holiday’ is defined as including a flight and some ground services (hotel, transfer, trek etc). This is also known as an ‘ATOL-protected holiday’.

Who is covered?

To be covered by ATOL, you must book a flight and some ground services with us and be from the UK. If you are from the UK and only book ground services and no flights, you are not covered by ATOL (see below for more on how non-ATOL clients are covered).

If you are outside the UK and buy flights with us, you will be ATOL protected IF any of the flights booked with Andean Trails touches/stops in the UK at any point during your holiday package booked with us.

If you buy your flights elsewhere, please check with that agent if you are ATOL protected. Be careful with online flight purchases and make sure you know what protection you have, if any, before paying for flights.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking.

For land only holidays not involving any air travel, in accordance with “The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992”, all UK passengers booking with Andean Trails Ltd. are fully protected for the initial deposit and subsequently the balance of all money paid to us, arising from cancellation or curtailment of travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Andean Trails.

I’m not ATOL covered, what protection do I have?

If you are not ATOL covered, any payments you make to us go to a Trust account.

We can only access this money once your tour has been completed, meaning that if anything happens to Andean Trails Limited while you are on holiday, then your money is secure and you can either complete the trip or be able to make it home.

If you pay for your holiday with a credit card, some offer payment protection – please check with your cardholder.

You also should have cancellation protection written into your insurance (which we recommend you have at the time of booking) in case you need to cancel.

Bolivia’s Amazon rainforest

The gateway to the Bolivian Amazon lies at the lively town of Rurrenabaque .

Motorised canoes will take you  into the rich and verdant realms of the Madidi National Park, a hub of ecotourism in the Bolivian Amazon basin. 

On a network of paths and waterways you can immerse yourself in the hot and humid tropical paradise that is the rainforest.

Wildlife such as howler monkeys and pink river dolphins, as well as a colourful indigenous culture, are a magnet for those who like to experience not only the Andean climates of Bolivia but to venture further into the depths of this fascinating country.  

Condoriri and the Cordillera Real, Bolivia

The Cordillera Real of Bolivia is a range of awe-inspiring snowy peaks just south of La Paz.

The towering peaks of this mountain range, dominated by Illimani (6,400m/20,997ft), Illampu (6,368m/20,892ft) and Ancohuma (6,427m/21,086ft), form a magnificent barrier which separates the Altiplano from Bolivia’s extensive rainforest.

The range is criss-crossed by ancient pilgrimage and trading routes and gives avid trekkers plenty of options to escape civilisation into the incredibly dramatic high Bolivian altitudes.

In the  Condoriri Range you still won’t meet many fellow hikers but will find yourself in the company of majestic peaks,  high altitude passes with stunning views, grazing herds of llamas and alpacas and soaring condors.

La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz is a capital like no other, set in high Andean climates and surrounded by the magnificent Andean Cordillera Real mountains.

Here you can sit at a cafe and watch the local ladies in their bowler hats and colourful traditional costumes. Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of its indigenous population.

Take a cable car ride on the Teleferico  to El Alto, the enormous satellite city spread across the Bolivian Altiplano high above La Paz.

Marvel at the views and its bustling streets.  

Visit the craft markets, full of colourful weavings and woolly jumpers, there are souvenirs to suit every taste.

Don’t forget to explore and haggle at the intriguing Witches’ market, home to all sorts of potions.

La Paz really is full of life.   

Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

Bolivia’s Lake Titicaca is home to the lively lake side town of Copacabana.

Stay for a few days to explore the lake shore and the islands. Copacabana is likely to be your entry point if coming overland from Puno in Peru and heading for La Paz.

Pass the 12 stations of the Cross as you hike up to the nearby hill for views over the lake to the Islands of the Sun and the Moon with a beautiful mountain backdrop, the high ice-covered peaks of the Cordillera Real shimmering in the distance.

Take a one day or overnight trip by boat to the islands,  Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna, where you can learn something of traditional island life as you wander along the ancient networks of paths.

Sajama, Bolivia’s highest peak

Sajama National park offers fabulous off the beaten track trekking and some easy Andean peaks amid amazing natural beauty.

A few hours from La Paz by four wheel drive brings you to Sajama National Park.

In this beautiful remote high mountain area you have the opportunity to explore a little visited part of southern Bolivia, right on the border with Chile, in the shadow of Bolivia’s highest peak – Nevado Sajama ( 6,542m/21,463ft) .

Snow-capped volcanoes fringe the vast altiplano and lagoons lie only a walk away in the mountains.

Geysers and hot springs await and you can be sure to see a variety of typical Andean wildlife, such as llama, vicuna, alpaca, Andean flamingos and viscachas.

Torotoro National Park, Bolivia

Torotoro National Park is a jewel for those seeking to escape the crowds – offering caves, canyons and fossilised dinosaur footprints.

The stunning Torotoro National Park is still an off the beaten track destination in Bolivia and well worth a visit.

Its highlights include some of the best preserved dinosaur footprints in South America, as well as stunning geological formations from an era long gone.

There are day walks across volcanic landscapes and you’ll pass by remote Andean villages, giving an insight into true Andean culture.

Uyuni and the Salt lakes, Bolivia

The dazzling, white  Salt Flats of Uyuni stretch as far as the eye can see. The salt flat is dotted with small islands where only cacti grow. 

The sheer expanse of the flats (nearly 11,000 sq km) will leave your mind boggled, and that’s before you’ve even ventured further into the surrounding high desert of the Bolivian  Altiplano .

It is there that you will find desert landscapes that transport you into another world.

The desert is home to beautiful lagoons of many hues, home to flocks of elegant  flamingos.

In the world of little water there are  hot springs to soak in, weird other worldly stone formations and spouting geysers.

All of this set against a backdrop of snow covered volcanoes and vast open skies.  

Available Dates

Dates & Prices

Select an available date to view pricing and information for that particular trip.

2024 price, per person, shared room basis Wed, Thurs, Sat small group departure Daily private departures at extra cost Daily departures in simple guesthouses, USD 710 per person.

$905 / £736

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Get in Touch

+44 (0)131 378 5593

+44 (0)131 554 6025

[email protected]

Suggested Trips

Bolivia and chile photography tour.

What's a group trip?

Join a small group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip.

What's a tailor made trip?

We put together a bespoke tour to fit your requirements.

What's part of a tailor made trip?

Include this guided group tour within your tailor-made tour.

Prices From $7,495 / £6,093 per person

Dates: From May 2023 to May 2022

Duration: 10

Comfort Level:

Capacity: 8 people

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Dates: From March 2023 to November 2023

Duration: 15

Bolivia Highlights two week tour

Prices From $2,475 / £2,012 per person

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Ecuador’s best lodge-to-lodge hiking tour

Our lodge-to-lodge hiking tour offers the best trekking in Ecuador in comfort. Ecuador is one of the best Andean countries for trekking and day walks. On this lodge-to-lodge hiking tour, you experience fabulous expansive mountain vistas and volcanoes wherever you look. Enjoy views over deeply carved valleys, vast plains and a picturesque patchwork of fields. You’ll also enjoy diverse wildlife and flora, rich cultures, and interactions with friendly local people. The tour takes you through three of Ecuador’s most beautiful mountain regions: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Chimborazo. Full details of our Lodge-to-Lodge 13-day Trekking Tour, Ecuador.     Lodges and Guesthouses Used …

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The Best Bolivia Salt Flats Tours: 15 Adventures in Uyuni & Altiplano

Planning on booking a Bolivia salt flat tour? Discover the best guided expeditions of the Uyuni Salt Flats and beyond. 

You may already know how insanely photogenic the Bolivia salt flats are. If you don’t, get ready for some of the most spectacular scenery you’ll find anywhere in South America. 

10 billion tons of salt are stretched across 10,582 square kilometres of land, providing a perfect canvas for capturing the colours, shapes and wildlife that make up this high desert setting. 

However you end up here, visiting the Uyuni salt flats is a must, but you can learn so much more on a guided tour.

Expert local guides can show you secret islands, towering candelabra cacti, surreal deserts, and colourful lagoons teeming with flamingos – and explain the history and culture of Uyuni and the Altiplano along the way.

Ready to learn the best Bolivia salt flat tours? Let’s get started.

Best Tours of the Bolivia Salt Flats

Cordillera traveller – private day tour.

Cordillera Traveller offers several options, but I chose the 3-day tour with the company, which is known as one of the best salt flat tour companies in Bolivia .

They do a great job explaining the history of some ancient cities like Chirp and the Inca Empire along the drive from the Uyuni Salt Flats to the Altiplano.

You’ll see many of the greatest hits along the way, like Playa Blanca Salt Hotel, the active Ollague Volcano, and the oh-so-colourful Altiplano Lakes. If you go in the winter bring very warm clothes (or a sleeping bag), the hostel gets way too cold. Note: The guides are mostly wonderful, but I had a rocky start to my trip as they messed up my tour booking and I ended up being sent out for a day with a crazy driver, no guide and no lunch. The remaining three days were excellent though.

Book Your Cordillera Traveller Tour Here

From Uyuni: Red Lagoon & Uyuni Salt Flats 3-Day Guided Tour

Get your camera ready for this 3-day adventure with Perla de Bolivia. On this Salar de Uyuni tour, you’ll have a full day in the Bolivia Salt Flats before getting some incredible views of the flamingos at Cañapa and Charcota Lagoons. Charcota is an underrated gem, so the tour guides are smart to include it. What I particularly like about this Bolivian salt flats tour is that it’s long enough to fit in a lot of other unique sights, like one of the most arid deserts in the world at Siloli and the Sol de Mañana Geyser. Keep your eyes open at Siloli Desert. The Stone Tree is a super cool rock formation that resembles a large tree thanks to erosion over millennia.

Top Tip: None of the entrance fees are included in the price of the tour.  Book Your Red Lagoon & Uyuni Salt Flats Tour Here

5-Hour Uyuni Salt Flat Tour Stargazing and Sunset/Sunrise In Group

Embark on a stargazing tour in Uyuni that starts at 3 pm, where you’ll meet at a designated location before taking a tour of the Bolivia salt flats. 

Your guide will help arrange the perfect location to see the sunset before you begin stargazing in the Uyuni Salt Flat sky. Dress warm, and bring your camera, you’ll have some of the best mirror-effect photos of the stars over the rain-covered salt flats between January and April.

Book Your Night Uyuni Salt Flats Tour Here

2-Day Private Tour Uyuni Salt Flats, Including Tunupa Volcano

Joker Expedition hosts this private 2-day tour of Uyuni, which has the added perk of a trip to the Tunupa Volcano. 

After you’re picked up at your hotel at 10 am, you’ll explore Uyuni and Colchani before having plenty of time to photograph Salar de Uyuni. At night, you’ll sleep at one of the famous “salt hotels”, before exploring the village of Coquesa and ascending the famous Tunupa Volcano.

Top Tip: You’ll need to be in relatively sound physical shape (and OK with high altitude), as the hike up Tunupa Volcano is a bit intense and the summit is 5,321 m high. Book Your Uyuni & Tunupa Volcano Tour Here

From Sucre: Uyuni Salt Flat Tour 2 Days 1 Night

If you want to experience Salar de Uyuni’s best attractions like the Dakar Monument, Fish Island, and Train Cemetery, on the cheap, this tour is one of the top Uyuni tours. You’ll get picked at your hotel in Sucre at 8 pm and embark on an overnight ride, landing at the Uyuni bus terminal. Your guide will show you arts and crafts in Colchani, the famous cacti at Incahuasi Island, and the museum at the former Playa Blanca Salt Hotel. 

Top Tip: This is one of the most affordable tours at only $125 per person, but it’s only available in Spanish and doesn’t return to Sucre.  Book Your 2 Day 1 Night Tour Here

From La Paz: Uyuni Salt Flat Tour & Overnight Round Trip Bus

Looking for a Bolivia salt flats tour from La Paz? Try this bus tour , where you’ll enjoy overnight transportation to and from the flats that drop you off the next morning in Uyuni. 

You’ll hit a lot of the usual favourites, like the Train Cemetery and Fish Island, with lots of time to snap those fun perspective photos along the way.  

Meals are provided for much of the trip, with dinner and breakfast on the bus and lunch served in the salt flats. Your ride departs at 9 pm (both ways), so you’ll be sleeping on the bus – bring comfy clothes and a neck pillow.

Top Tip: This tour is best if you’re in a rush to see Uyuni Salt Flats and aren’t interested (or don’t have time) in seeing the Altiplano. Book Your Bus Tour Tour Here

3-Days Tour to the Uyuni Salt Flat and Coloured Lagoons with Sunset and Mirror Effect

You won’t have many better chances to photograph the flamingos, colourful lakes, and epic sunsets in Uyuni & the Altiplano than on this 3-day tour of Salar de Uyuni and beyond. 

Photo opportunities abound; you’ll get to practise your best selfies, perspective shots, and panoramic shots of the desert before heading to the famous red lake, Laguna Colorada. 

Adventure through Dalí Desert and Laguna Verde before returning to Uyuni or heading to San Pedro de Atacama where you can explore the Atacama Desert .

Book Your Uyuni & Colourful Lagoons Tour Here

Uyuni Salt Flat 1 Day Tour + Sunset in the Salt Water Region with Mirror Effect

Only have one day in Uyuni? No problem. Take this whirlwind tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, where you’ll pack in the Train Cemetery, the museum at Colchani, flags of the Dakar Rally, and cacti-studded Fish Island with an expert guide in a 4WD vehicle.

You’ll have plenty of time to take photos before watching the sunset on this salt flats Bolivia tour.

Book Your 1-Day Salt Flat Tour Here

Stargazing Night Tour in Uyuni Salt Flats from Uyuni

Don’t forget about the dark desert skies when deciding how to visit Salar de Uyuni. Stargazing is a thing here, so spending a night in the Uyuni Salt Flats is always a great time.

You’ll have access to an English-speaking guide who can help you locate stars, planets, and faraway galaxies in the quiet Uyuni sky. 

This tour begins at 8 pm and lasts for around 3 hours, so be sure to pack some warm clothes for the cool salt flat nights.

Book Your Stargazing Night Tour Here

3-Day Tour to Salt Flats and Lagoons

One of the most popular 3-day salt flat tours in Bolivia, this guided adventure takes you around Uyuni and the Altiplano with stops at Cactus Island, Dakar Monument, and Laguna Colorada. Expect shopping in Colchani, sunsets in the salt flats, and an overnight stay in Candelaria. Your guide will lead up to 12 people on a tour, and the pickup time is 11 am on the first day. Bring your camera, hiking shoes, and lots of water for this high-altitude adventure through Southern Bolivia.

Top Tip: Nights get very cold. Bring warm clothes for sunsets, stargazing, and your hotel room. Book Your 3-Day Salt Flats and Lagoons Tour Here

Uyuni Salt Flat 2 Days/1 Night + Sunset at Salt Water region with Mirror Effect

Planning the perfect 2-day tour of the Bolivia salt flats? Try this popular option on Viator. Designed for smaller groups, you’ll have 5 or less people in your tour – making it an excellent choice for visitors who want a more personalised visit to the salt flats. You can arrange pickup from several locations in Uyuni at 9:30 am. Set off to see the mirror-effect in Uyuni, Cave of the Galaxies, and Incahuasi Island – home of the towering candelabra-shaped cacti. This tour includes one overnight stay and a friendly guide who will help you navigate the salt flats, volcanoes, and islands of Uyuni. 

Book Your 2 Day Salt Flat in Bolivia Tour Here

From La Paz: 4-Day Trip to San Pedro de Atacama w/ Salt Flats

Have a little more time for your Salar de Uyuni tours? This 4-day option is perfect. Start in La Paz, spend a full day in Uyuni, and then pass through the Altiplano on your way to San Pedro de Atacama. 

This is a long 4-day tour with a lot of time on the bus. Bring cash for toilets, entrance fees, and refreshments along the journey.

Top Tip: You’ll be sharing a hotel room with your tour group in Huayllajara, so this is only a good option if you don’t need a private room. Book Your Full Day Tour Here

From La Paz: 3-Day Biking Death Road & Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

This Uyuni 3-day tour from La Paz starts at the entrance of Death Road in La Paz, where you’ll have a chance to bike down one of the scariest (and most scenic) roads in the world. Once you’ve had the thrill of a lifetime, you’ll take an overnight bus to Uyuni, where you’ll have a laid back afternoon in the salt flats.

Highlights include visiting the Train Cemetery, shopping for souvenirs in Colchani, and seeing the salt flat attractions like Ojos de Agua Salada (one of the famous “salt hotels”). 

Top Tip: Bring cash. You’ll need it for park entrance fees, toilets, and any refreshments and personal items you may want on the 3-day Uyuni tour.  Book Your Death Road & Uyuni Tour Here

From La Paz to Atacama: Uyuni Salt Flats 4-Day Tour

Want to combine 2 of the most iconic deserts in South America into one nonstop adventure tour? I thought so.

Try this 4-day Bolivia salt flats tour from La Paz, where you make your way through the Uyuni Salt Flats, see several Altiplano Lakes, and enjoy a sunrise at Sol de Mañana. All this before you see the driest desert in the world, The Atacama. Your bus tour will take you from La Paz to San Pedro de Atacama over four days, with accommodations, meals, and snacks included.

Top Tip: Bring cash for a $30 entrance fee, tips, and any alcohol.  Book Your 4-Day La Paz to Atacama Tour Here

From Uyuni: 2-Day Uyuni Salt Flats & Red Lagoon

For adventurous travellers who want a more private experience, this 2-day Uyuni Salt Flats tour sets you up in your own 4WD vehicle with a professional driver who picks you up and drops you off at your hotel. 

You’ll see the Uyuni Salt Flats up close before spending some time both days in the Altiplano visiting the colourful lagoons, hot springs at the Polques, and time in the Dali and Siloli deserts. 

Some amenities you’ll have access to include an oxygen bottle, water, meals, snacks. You’ll also stay one night at the Hotel Tayka del Desierto (which has heat and a shower).

Top Tip: This is a brand new tour, so you’ll be the first to review it – but it’s run by Joker Expedition, which offers some of the best Bolivian Salt Flat tours.   Book Your 2-Day Private Tour Here

Practical Tips for Exploring the Bolivia Salt Flats Tours 

• 3 days is the perfect amount of time for a Bolivia salt flats tour. But if you’re pressed for time, a 1-2 day tour will show you many of the highlights.
• If you stay overnight at a hostel, pack a sleeping bag and very warm clothes. The last night on my last trip to the salt flats was the coldest night’s sleep I’ve ever experienced.
• Night tours are a cool way to see the stars and watch the sun reflect off the water in the winter months.
• Check the language of your tour. Most are available in English, but some are available in Spanish only.

Tours of Salar de Uyuni: Map

Explore Beyond the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats Tours

• Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit the Salar de Uyuni
• When’s the Best Time to Visit the Bolivia Salt Flats?
• Laguna Verde – A Stunning Location in the Altiplano 
• Things to do in Bolivia

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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How to Visit the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia

L ong before knowing exactly what it is, pictures of Bolivia's heavenly salt flats suck a gasp right out of anyone. The largest salt flats on earth, the Salar de Uyuni spans over 10.5 kilometres (4,000+miles). In the wet season, a layer of rainwater creates a mirror-like surface as smooth as glass. In the dry season, its geometric salt patterns imprint the earth, seemingly stretching beyond the horizon. Put simply, this place looks like a whole other planet.

Without a doubt, visiting the Salar de Uyuni is truly a once in a lifetime travel experience (or in my case, twice ). In fact, I place Bolivia's salt flats in my top five travel experiences ever – and that's after 5+ years of globetrotting. Having visited the Salar de Uyuni in both the rainy and the dry season, I'm going to tell you exactly how to see this majestic place. Here's how to visit Bolivia's salt flats!

• 1 Salar de Uyuni: The essentials
• 2 Getting There
• 3 Where to Stay
• 4 How to visit the Salar de Uyuni
• 5 The Thrifty Gist

Salar de Uyuni: The essentials

The Salar de Uyuni is located in Bolivia's Altiplano. Despite being remotely located, visiting the salt flats is feasible thanks to the abundance of tours that operate here. Visits can be done as a day trip or a multi-day tour, with lengthier tours venturing further into the remote landscapes up to the Chilean border. You can browse tours along with reviews on GetYourGuide , all of which offer free cancellation.

Know before you go

Like much of Bolivia, the salt flats are highly elevated, positioned at 12,000 feet (3,660 meters) above sea level. Altitude sickness is not uncommon for travellers.  Give yourself a few days to acclimatize , stay well hydrated, and follow the locals suggestion and drink coca tea.

While daytime temperatures can be warm and sunny, the nights here are cold, sometimes reaching sub-zero temps. Bring layers and prepare for chilly nights. For daytime, pack sunscreen and sunglasses for the intense brightness of the flats. Be sure to charge up your camera – you'll find yourself constantly wanting to snap pictures of this incredible place.

Getting There

Bolivia is a landlocked nation with La Paz being its third largest city. If arriving in Bolivia via another country, you will most likely fly into La Paz first. Uyuni  however, is the closest city to the Salar de Uyuni , and is the starting point for most journeys to the salt flats. You can reach Uyuni by plane, train, or bus. You can also begin your salt flats tour directly from La Paz, Tupiza, or Sucre  (more on these tour options later).

Bus tickets can be booked online or bought in person in your respective starting city. In general, most major cities in Bolivia offer bus routes to Uyuni, though they are not always direct. You can book online at  Tickets Bolivia for some of the most popular routes.

Ticket pricing varies on the distance travelled and bus type/class. Some buses include toilets, heating, snacks, fully-reclining seats (“full cama”), or half-reclining seats (“semi cama”). Buses without toilets do make pitstops. Bus companies have varying reputations, with some notoriously worse than others. It is worth paying for a better bus line that has good reviews from travellers (check TripAdvisor forums and reviews).

How to get to Uyuni from La Paz

From La Paz you can reach Uyuni by flight, train, or bus . The train option involves a bus to Oruro, then a transfer to a train. Information on scheduling and how to obtain tickets is provided below.

If you want to start a tour directly from La Paz to the Uyuni salt flats, you can browse tours with reviews and book online with immediate confirmation on Viator and GetYourGuide . Otherwise, you'll want to take a bus, train or flight to Uyuni first and depart on your tour from there.

Flight scheduling & prices

There are daily local flights  from La Paz to Uyuni. I've done both the flight and the bus option from La Paz to reach Uyuni. Flying is more comfortable and quicker, though bussing is cheaper.

Airline Amazonas and Boliviano de Aviacion  are the main airlines that fly between La Paz and Uyuni. Airline Amazonas operates flights daily from La Paz to Uyuni departing at 7:15AM (arriving 8:00AM) and 7:30PM (arriving 8:15PM). Prices start around $115+ USD . Boliviano de Aviacion operates flights daily from La Paz to Uyuni departing at 8:05AM (arrive 9:05AM) and 7:10PM (arrive 8:10PM). Prices start around $170+ USD .

Pricing fluctuates greatly by supply and demand. It's generally recommended to book in advance to secure a good price, as this route is fairly limited.

When booking,  give yourself wiggle room between your tour start time and your flight . If possible, fly into Uyuni the night before to be safe, or take an early morning flight. Flight delays and cancellations are not uncommon.

To book the cheapest flight price, we recommend selecting “Whole Month” in Skyscanner  to visualize the cheapest dates to fly. Be sure to also check our flight hacks here  and our guide to South American budget airlines and flight passes .

Bus tickets

To buy a bus ticket,  book online or visit the bus station in La Paz on Uruguay Avenue. Both daytime and overnight buses depart from La Paz to Uyuni, which are ~10.5 hours (we did the overnight bus on our first trip). It is a typical South American bus experience in that it's a bit cramped and long, but not unbearable, and eliminates accommodation costs for one night.

Buses operate daily from La Paz to Uyuni, except during holidays or transit strikes (more on that below). Day time trips depart at 8:30AM and arrive in Uyuni at 9:20PM. Overnight buses generally depart around 8 or 9:00PM and arrive in Uyuni between 6-7:30AM the next day. Some routes are direct while others make transfers in Oruro or Potosi. Prices range from  $14-$36 USD . All tourists must also pay a terminal tax (30 US cents) inside the bus terminal.

A note on buses: transit strikes and holidays (such as Christmas, Easter, and Carnaval) can result in bus station closures. Plan accordingly and when in doubt, ask hotel staff if there are anticipated strikes or holidays.

How to get to Uyuni from Oruro

Oruro has daily buses and trains to Uyuni, both of which can be booked online . The train is 7 hours long and departs on Sundays and Wednesdays only. Buses depart daily and involve a transfer via La Paz or Potosi.

How to get to Uyuni from Sucre

From Sucre you can take a bus to Uyuni ( $11 USD,  8-9 hours, book online ) and begin your tour in Uyuni. Alternatively, you can book a one day trip to the salt flats , which returns back to Sucre ( $150 USD ).

How to get to Uyuni from Tupiza

If departing your salt flats tour from Tupiza, you can get there from La Paz or other major cities, though not directly. From La Paz, for instance, you must take a bus to Sucre or Oruro first, then bus or train onwards to Tupiza.

Buses from La Paz run daily to Oruro ( $3.65 USD , ~4 hours, book online ) and Sucre ( $26 USD , 12 hours direct, book online ). You must then transfer onwards from either of these cities to Tupiza. Most of these routes run daily. Tours starting in Tupiza can be booked online .

Where to Stay

La Paz is a stimulating city that is cradled by snow-capped mountains. It is packed with vibrant markets, colourful colonial buildings, and plenty of activities. A visit here should include the city cable car , the colourful Valle de la Luna , the cholitas wrestling show (bizarre and truly unique!), and the world's most dangerous bike tour if you're feeling daring.

Due to Bolivia being the poorest nation in South America, your dollar will go quite far here. A private hotel room  will set you back ~$23+ USD/night , while hostel dorms start at as little as  $8+ USD per night . Some neighbourhoods in La Paz are noticeably safer than others. Check hotel reviews for visitor input on a hotel's location and neighbourhood vibes.

Sol Andino Hostal

On my last visit to La Paz, I stayed at Sol Andino Hostal in the city. For $41 USD/night, my friend and I had a private room with an ensuite bathroom (you can get cheaper but we chose to treat ourselves to decent digs). Sol Andino is clean, includes a decent breakfast, is centrally located, and has helpful staff. The front desk is open 24-hours, so if you need to leave for an early flight for Uyuni (as we did), this is ideal for getting help ordering a taxi (which should be phoned, not flagged down in the street).

Location : Aroma #6 zona Rosario, Downtown La Paz, 9999 Price : $36+ USD per night ( compare prices across booking sites )

Residencial Latino

We stayed at the Residencial Latino on our first visit to La Paz. It has a bright courtyard, simple breakfast (included), helpful desk staff, and is also a good location for exploring the city. This is a cheaper downtown option that still has all the basics plus useful desk staff.

Location : Calle Junin n. 857, 9999 La Paz, Bolivia Price : Prices start at $17 USD/night (single room with shared bathroom), up to $58 USD/night for a triple room with an ensuite. ( compare prices across booking sites )

Uyuni is a small city located in the southwest of Bolivia. It's the closest  starting point for a trip to the Salar de Uyuni . There are a few attractions including a street market, a small archeologic museum, and the nearby train cemetery. To avoid rushing on arrival, it's not a bad idea to spend a day or two in Uyuni before taking off for your tour if departing from here.

Hostal Castillo de Liliana

We stayed overnight at the Hostal Castillo de Liliana on our first visit to the salt flats (the second time we booked a flight from La Paz and departed on the same day). This hostel is simple, clean, cheap, and has a hearty breakfast. Uyuni is a small town, so most accommodations are “central”, including Liliana. It is possible to stay in fancier digs, including one of the nearby salt hotels , but for us this was a perfect budget option. If your wallet can't afford the overnight stay at a salt hotel, you can at least have dinner there .

Location : Av Colon entre Bolivar y Avaroa No 148, Uyuni, Bolivia Price : $18+ USD/night for a single room with a private bathroom

Oruro, Sucre, and Tupiza

We haven't personally departed to Uyuni from these cities, so we don't have firsthand recommendations for hotels and hostels here. That said, if you search on HotelsCombined , you will see a huge number of accommodation options across all major booking sites, so you can easily see the best prices and reviews all from one website.

Okay, now that you've got the basics, here's the rest of the steps you need to know on how to plan a trip to Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni!

How to visit the Salar de Uyuni

1. choose the best time to go to the salar de uyuni.

Before booking a tour, you need to decide which time of year you want to visit. What is considered the best time to visit the Salar de Uyuni really depends on what you want to see , as each season offers different visuals. One thing's for certain – the scenery here is breathtaking all year round .

Dry Season (May to October)

• Salt flats have dry, geometric shapes spanning for miles
• Shorter but sunnier days and generally better road conditions
• Access to Cactus Island (Isla Incahuasi) or Fish Island (Isla del Pescado) is possible. These are two small, hilly islands with tall cacti and rock formations
• Daytime temperatures range from 15 to 27°C (60 – 80ºF)
• Colder nights expected, especially in June and July with temps as low as 0° to – 15° C (32° – 5° F)
• Generally less humid and more pleasant temps in the lowlands
• In August and September, farmers burn-off to clear overgrown forests which can produce a thick smoke in the area

Rainy Season (November to March)

• A few centimetres to several inches of rain creates an incredibly perfect mirror-like surface stretching into the horizon
• Daytime temps range from 15 to 27°C (60 – 80ºF), with cooler temps at night. The east is warm and humid, the west is dryer, and the south is milder
• Access to Cactus Island ( Isla Incahuasi) and Fish Island (Isla del Pescado) is not possible due to water levels
• Days are cloudier and roads are muddier
• Countryside is greener and full of native plants and flowers
• Certain times of the rainy season generally get less tourists

2. Pick a tour duration

Salt flats tours are run as a one day or multi-day visits. Single day trips typically visit the salt flats, salt hotel, and train cemetery. Multi-day tours include this, plus travel further through Bolivia's landscapes, including highlights like Laguna Colorada and the Salvador Dali Desert.

Multi-day tours are highly recommended, as the landscapes and wildlife in this region are outstanding . Desert dunes, apple-red and neon turquoise lakes, wild flamingoes, volcanoes, hot springs, and adorable llamas are just some of what's to be seen. In my opinion, if you're already in this corner of the world, you'd be remiss not to see more of Bolivia's astounding scenery.

Both day and multi-day tours to the salt flats are round-trip  from their departure point. However, most of the multi-day tours that end near the Chilean border  allow passengers to connect onwards to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile by bus. I've done this on both my visits, and it's a great way to reduce transport costs between countries (plus Atacama is definitely worth visiting). If you wish to transfer onwards to Chile, be sure to arrange this with the tour company beforehand.

3. Choose a tour departure point & budget

Most tours operate directly out of Uyuni , though tours can be arranged from La Paz , Sucre , and Tupiza . Uyuni is the cheapest departure point for visiting the salt flats, with day tours being the least expensive option.

Tour prices vary based on tour group size, duration, company reputation, vehicle quality, and accommodation standards. While larger tour groups are cheaper, one disadvantage is that you must always wait for all of your group's vehicles. This can cause significant delays if a car in your group breaks down. Accommodation also greatly affects tour cost, with pricing varying based on whether you choose basic (dormitory style hostels), mid-range (heated private room hotels), or high-end digs (such as the salt hotels).

Tours from Uyuni

Uyuni has the most variety of tours, including one day, three day, and four day trips. Day tours are abundant, including sunrise tours with breakfast, stargazing tours (highly recommended in the wet season as the star reflect on the ground water), sunset tours with wine, bike tours, and more. Day tours start from $75 USD, multi-day tours start from $149 USD.

Uyuni Salt Flats Full Day Tour ($109 USD)

This tour is operated by Red Planet Expeditions. We used this company for our tour and highly recommend them!

The main difference between these 3-day tours is the accommodation. The first 2 tours are in basic hostels with dormitory style sleeping, while the last tour gives you private rooms in heated hotels.

3-Day Salar de Uyuni ($149 USD)

3-Day Salt Flats and Colored Lagoons Tour from Uyuni ($270 USD)

3-Day Salar de Uyuni and Laguna de Colores from Uyuni ($999 USD)

Tours from La Paz

Day tours can be done from La Paz with flights or buses included (starting at $200 USD). Two day tours with flights start at $. Both of these options are quite packed and pricey. Tours from La Paz tend to include a visit to the salt flats, salt hotel, and train cemetery.

One Day (Bus or Flight)

• Visit to Uyuni Salt Flats from La Paz Bolivia by Bus ($200 USD)
• Private Day Trip from La Paz to Uyuni Salt Flats ($699 USD)
• Uyuni Salt Flats Luxury Tour from La Paz ($799 USD)
• Uyuni Salt Flats Day Trip by Air from La Paz ($891 USD)

Two Day (Flight)

2-Day Uyuni Salt Flat with Overnight in Hotel VIP Including Flight from La Paz ($890 USD)

Three day (flight).

Luxury Uyuni Salt Flats 3D 2N Tour From La Paz by Flight ($1200 USD)

Four day (bus): la paz > uyuni > atacama.

4 Day Uyuni Salt Flats from La Paz to Atacama in Chile ($438 USD)

If travelling through South America, this is a great way to get a tour, accommodation, and transportation all in one package. The Atacama Desert in Chile is well worth a visit, and is a good departure point for heading further south in Chile towards Santiago.

Five Day (Bus)

5 Day Uyuni Salt Flats and Desert Adventure from La Paz ($497 USD)

Tours from sucre.

A less common approach is to visit the salt flats from Sucre as a round-trip. Disclaimer: this is a packed trip. It involves an overnight bus from Sucre to Uyuni and visit the salt flats, salt hotel, and train cemetery the following day. At the end of the day tour you then take another overnight bus returning back to Sucre the next morning.

Visit to Uyuni Salt Flats from Sucre by Bus ($150 USD)

Full-Day Tour from Sucre to Potosi and Uyuni ($227 USD)

Tours from tupiza.

Visiting the Salar de Uyuni on a tour from Tupiza is the most off-the-beaten track approach. Far less tourists pass through Tupiza, and the actual tour route is different since it starts from the south. There are four-day tours here that pass through the typical highlights of the multi-day tours from Uyuni, only in the reverse order.

3. Choose a reputable tour company

Not all tour companies here are created equal. Some run substandard trips, with poor accommodation and vehicles that are prone to breakdowns. It's wise to book with companies that have recent positive traveller reviews. If booking with Viator or GetYourGuide , there are reviews of each tour available. Otherwise, TripAdvisor is a great hub for this, as are its discussion forums.

Isla del Pescado (Fish Island)

4. Know what's included in your tour

Day tours generally visit the same sites – the salt flats, salt hotel, and the train cemetery. That being said, there are variations, so be sure to understand what's included. This cannot be stressed enough for multi-day tours, where accommodation, food standards, and tour highlights vary hugely from one package to the next. Traveller reviews (e.g. TripAdvisor ) are good for this, plus clarifying with the company itself.

An important note on language – some tours provide Spanish speaking guides only . Verify whether you will be provided with an English-speaking guide, and whether it's one guide per group or per vehicle (and if this matters to you). Personally, I've been on tours with one main guide and two vehicles. The guide took turns riding in our vehicles and I didn't mind.

Food & drink

Check beforehand which meals are included in your trip. Alcohol and snacks are typically not included in tours, so be sure to pack some as you'll generally be unable to buy these along the way. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, sort this before your tour.

Accommodation

Know what to expect for your accommodation by asking in advance. Cheaper tours typically provide more basic accommodation. If you want more luxurious digs, such a staying in the salt hotels (pictured below), this will cost more. Ask before booking.

Tour highlights

Each tour covers different scenic highlights, though many are generally included in every trip. For instance, most multi-day tours include a visit to Cactus Island in dry season, as well as Laguna Colorada, Tunupa Volcano, Laguna Verde, and the Colchini salt processing mine. If there are specific highlights you want to see, such as the Coquesa mummy caves, check whether that's covered in your package before reserving.

5. Book your tour

Tours can be booked online or in person in your respective departure city. While it can be cheaper to book in person, if there's a particular company and dates you're after, it's safer to book ahead to avoid disappointment. The more reputable companies book out in high season.

6. Pack appropriately

There are a few must-pack items for any visit to the Salar de Uyuni. Generally, tour companies will tell you what to bring, but we've included packing lists for the respective tour types below.

You may wish to research photo ideas beforehand, and decide on any props you may wish to bring. The ever-stretching flats provide creative opportunities for photos, and it's not a bad idea to do some Googling for inspiration.

• Layers of clothing
• Any props you may wish to use for photos

Multi-Day trip

• Everything needed for day trip plus …..
• LOTS more layers for nighttime (e.g. light gloves, leg warmers, warm hat, scarf)
• Alcohol if you wish to drink (you will not be able to buy on the way)
• Snacks (limited to no opportunities to buy along the way)
• Bathing suit & towel (likely visit to hot springs)

It's hard, if not impossible , to be disappointed by a trip to the Salar de Uyuni. Its otherworldly landscapes, altiplano wildlife, and remoteness are unique and astounding. If your bucket list has room for updating, I'd strongly recommend adding the salt flats!

The Thrifty Gist

• The Salar de Uyuni can be visited as one day or multi-day trip from Uyuni, La Paz, Tupiza, or Sucre
• Day tours are cheapest, but only include a visit to the salt flats themselves and not the rest of Bolivia's remote landscapes
• Most multi-day tours allow passengers to be dropped off at the Chilean border, saving transport costs and allowing travellers to continue onto the Atacama Desert
• Review what is included in your tour package, including meals, accommodation type, group size, and tour highlights to avoid disappointment3

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• About this activity

Uyuni: Private 1 Day Tour - Salt Flats & Isla Incahuasi

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Multiple languages
• Certificated English Speaking Guide included.
• Get to know the impressive Salar de Uyuni and Incahuasi Island.
• Enjoy the amazing sunset in the middle of the Uyuni Salt Flats with wine.

Activity location

• Uyuni, Departamento de Potosí, Bolivia

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Meeting time: 10:00 a.m. Departure time: 10:30 a.m. Arrival time: 7:30 p.m.
• Sun, Apr 7 -
• Mon, Apr 8 $425
• Tue, Apr 9 $425
• Wed, Apr 10 $425
• Thu, Apr 11 $425
• Fri, Apr 12 $425
• Sat, Apr 13 $425
• Sun, Apr 14 $425
• Mon, Apr 15 $425
• Tue, Apr 16 $425
• Wed, Apr 17 $425
• Thu, Apr 18 $425
• Fri, Apr 19 $425
• Sat, Apr 20 $425
• Sun, Apr 21 $425
• Activity duration is 9 hours 9h 9h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Private Transportation in 4WD with rooftop luggage rack
• What's included What's included Private English Speaking Guide
• What's included What's included Private Local Driver
• What's included What's included Meals: 1 lunch.
• What's included What's included 1 Glass of wine during the sunset.
• What's excluded What's excluded Entrance Fees: Isla Incahuasi (30 Bob)
• What's excluded What's excluded Toilets on the way (10 Bob)
• What's excluded What's excluded Drinks
• What's excluded What's excluded Snacks

Know before you book

• Not allowed: Pets

What you can expect

Start your private tour at 10:30 a.m. with a drive out to the Uyuni Salt Flats. The first stop is the haunting “Train Graveyard’, which is found on the outskirts of Uyuni. Get to see the first locomotives in Bolivia, and learn about their history, that connected several major cities. Now, corroded over time from the strong salt winds that run through this desert area, this makes for a great photo setting.

Then visit the small settlement of Colchani (salt miners’ workshops next to the salt flats), there, also find handicrafts made of salt, and textile art manufactured of llama and alpaca wool. These make excellent souvenirs to bring back home. Take photos as you cruise along the vast white expanse of salt, wade through “Ojos de Agua Salada” (salt water eyes), also visit: a hotel made completely out of salt which is currently used as a museum-restaurant, Flags of the World (Where you can bring yours and put there for free) and a Monument of Dakar racing.

After a morning of exploration, Lunch will be served near “Isla Incahuasi” (Fish Island), following, have time to take a hike to the top of the island to see giant cacti, and rock formations made of petrified coral.

Next, take time to organize your group for fun perspective- and proportion distorted photos, set on the blinding white surface of the salt flats, playing around with the scene, you can be sure to take some funny, and memorable shots!

Finally, head to a spacious area for the unique experience of seeing a beautiful sunset over the salt flats, spreading its dazzling colors all over the salt flats, enjoying it with a glass of wine.

Finally, return to Uyuni Town at 07:15 p.m.

Tour details

• What to bring

Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

Discover the best tour to the Uyuni Salt Flats in 3 days

The Uyuni Salt Flats Tour is the best option to discover the biggest attraction in Bolivia. During the first day, you will visit the train cemetery and the Salar de Uyuni, spending the night in a salt hostel. On the following days, you will access the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve , visit the altiplanic lagoons, the Siloli desert, and the geyser field 'Sol de la mañana'. In total, you will travel 900km in a 7-seater 4x4 .

✅ Book with us and you will take the tour with the best drivers/guides who will offer you a safe and unique experience.

• Transportation in 4X4 (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar)
• Expert driver
• Accommodation (first night at Salt Hostel)
• Food with vegetarian option

Not included

• Access to Incahuasi (30 Bs)
• Access to Eduardo Avaroa National Park (150 Bs)
• Acces to hotsprings (6 Bs)
• Hygiene products
• Sleeping bag (rent for $8 USD)*
• Guide (available as an extra)

Important information

It is very important to make a good acclimatization to the altitude before starting the tour, as the tour runs through high-altitude areas.

🌧️ During the rainy season (December to March) the itinerary may be modified, as the salt flat is flooded and some areas such as Inca Huasi Island, or some accommodations may not be accessible. The flooded areas change constantly, so depending on the situation at that time the driver will offer the best alternative to enjoy the tour.

🚗 The tour is done in 7-seater 4x4 vehicles. If no guide is included, there will be a maximum of 6 passengers and the driver. If a guide is included, the maximum number of passengers is 5, plus a guide and a driver.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation! You can cancel this tour and you'll receive 100% refund of the amount paid if you cancel more than 48 hours in advance. After this time, or in case you do not show up, no refunds will be given.

Tour itinerary

Day 1 uyuni - train cemetery - refinery - incahuasi island - salt hostel.

Departure from Uyuni to the Train Cemetery

They'll pick you up around 10:30 a.m. at your accommodation in Uyuni . Our first stop will be a few minutes after leaving in the Cemetery of Trains , where the old locomotives are abandoned, creating a very peculiar landscape.

Colchani and the Salt Museum

Then we will go to the Colchani village , where you will get to visit the salt museum and the salt refinery where we will get an insight into the extraction and refinement process and the local handicraft shops .

Arrival to the Uyuni Salt Flat

The group will then enter the salt desert at noon, visiting the salt heaps, the “ojos del salar” (small holes where you can see the underground water), and the fascinating Playa Blanca museum built solely with salt blocks of the Uyuni Salt Flats.

Incahuasi island 🌵

The next stop will be Incahuasi Island, a place that hosts a unique environment full of giant cacti and thanks to its elevation, becomes one of the best vantage points to enjoy the fascinating landscape . Be sure to take photographs from a different perspective of the Uyuni Salt flats. Later, we will take a short walk to lunch in the white plains before continuing the exciting adventure.

Sunset in the Uyuni Salt Flat - Salt Hostel

We will arrive at our accommodation, the Salt Hostel, at roughly 7:00 p.m . On the way to the hostel, you will have the chance to enjoy the beauty of the salt flats sunset. Once there, we will eat dinner together and spend the night in double or triple rooms with shared bathroom (chosen according to your preferences and availability), or in a private room and bathroom (available as an extra of the tour).

DAY 2 San Juan - Eduardo Avaroa Park - Siloli Desert - Laguna Colorada

Altiplanic Lagoons

We will begin the day with an early breakfast to leave in the direction of the famous Laguna Colorada , one of the largest and most scenic lagoons in the salt flats. We will pass first through the Chiguana salt flats and stop at the Ollague volcano viewpoint for additional panoramic views. Afterward, we will visit the Cañapa, Hedionda, Hona, and Ramadita lagoons , known as the altiplanic or colored lagoons.

Entrance to the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve

We will reach the Eduardo Avaroa national park passing through the Siloli Desert , located more than 16,404 feet (5000 meters) above sea level, which offers absolutely incredible volcanic landscapes of different colors and its famous stone tree . We will make a stop along the way to eat.

Laguna Colorada

Finally, we will reach the Laguna Colorada , inhabited by three different species of flamingos . There, we will have some free time and trek around the lagoon for twenty minutes to see all the different animals that inhabit this haven of life.

To finish the day, we will arrive at our refuge near the lagoon and have more free time to walk around the area until nightfall. Dinner will then be served and we will sleep in dorms (six beds) or a private room (available as an extra of the tour). Please, consider that the accommodation on the second day is humble.

DAY 3 Sol de la Mañana - Hot Springs - Salvador Dalí desert - Laguna Verde - Uyuni

Geysers field “Sol de Mañana”

We will get up very early to start the journey to the “Sol de la Mañana” geyser field since the activity is higher during the first hours of the day and only then will you be able to see the many active geysers, fumaroles, and even a small crater with volcanic lava.

Thermal waters: Termas de Polques

The trip continues to the hot springs where we can swim in a pool of natural thermal water . The Polques hot springs can only be visited with the Uyuni Salt Flats tour.

Green and White lagoons

After the swim, we will go to the Salvador Dalí desert and visit the Green and White Lagoons . The incredible views, with the volcano Licancabur in the background , create the perfect setting to explore the area.

End of the Uyuni Salt Flats tour

At this point the group have two options :

Take another vehicle that will lead us to the center of San Pedro de Atacama (Chile) arriving at 1:00 p.m.

Start the road back to Uyuni which crosses the Black Lagoon, the Valley of Rocks, and the San Cristobal village church. We will arrive in Uyuni town around 5:00 p.m. After that, you will put an end to this incredible experience of the Uyuni Salt Flats tour.

What to bring to Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

• Warm clothing
• Raincoat (between December and March)
• Sleeping bag (can be rented for $8.00 USD)
• Comfortable shoes (if possible hiking boots)
• Swimwear (for hot springs)
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal hygiene articles and medication
• Cash for possible additional expenses
• Camera (the Uyuni Sal Flats are an opportunity for photography lovers)
• Medication against altitude sickness (if you deem them necessary)

Where does the tour Uyuni Salt Flats Tour start

✈ If you are planning to arrive from La Paz you can fly directly to Uyuni, check the current options.

🚌 If you plan to travel to Uyuni by land you should take a bus. We recommend taking the night bus which departs La Paz at 8 p.m. with the company Bus Titicaca or Bus Cisne. Upon arrival, you will have time for breakfast before starting the tour.

*If you arrive in Uyuni on the same day as the tour starts, we offer you a free transfer from the bus station or airport to Uyuni. If you arrive in Uyuni before the day the tour starts, your pickup point will be your accommodation in Uyuni.

Questions & Answers

Can i finish the tour in san pedro de atacama (chile), what is the price of the transfer to san pedro de atacama, how is the transfer to san pedro de atacama (chile), can i finish the tour at the calama airport, does the tour depart every day, how are the vehicles in which you travel during the tour, how are the accommodations on the tour, what are the differences between shared and private rooms, can i sleep in a hotel, can i choose a special diet: vegetarian, gluten free…, it is specially cold during the tour, how much luggage can i bring, when can we see the mirror effect, it is the itinerary modified during the rainy season, how can i get yo uyuni from la paz, are the 4x4 cars equipped with oxygen and satellite phone, do i have to bring water or the drinks are included, do i need to bring money during the tour, there are plugs to charge my phone and camera battery, there is wifi in the accommodation, there are toilets during the tour, can i buy snacks, sodas or alcoholic drinks during the tour, do i rent the sleeping bag once i get there, can i pay with credit card in uyuni or during the tour, can i start the tour in hotel palacio de sal or other hotels that are not located in uyuni, in which hotels is pick-up not included, at what time does the tour ends, can i change money in the border, how can i not have altitude sickness, does the driver speak english will the driver give us explanations and help us to take photos, if i select the extra: english speaking guide , can the driver and the guide be the same person, where can i have breakfast or dinner in uyuni, can i book a private tour just for my group, uyuni salt flats tour tour reviews with howlanders, other tours that might interest you from bolivia.

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Backpacking in Bolivia , Backpacking in South America , Unique Experiences

Tupiza tours: uyuni salt flat tours from tupiza bolivia.

The Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia are truly incredible.  One of the highlights of my time in South America as a whole, and an experience not to be missed in Bolivia , a tour of the Uyuni Salt flats is something you will remember for a long time to come.  The first time I went to Bolivia, I actually decided to skip el Salar de Uyuni.  That was a mistake, although I still had a great time exploring Sucre , Samaipata & La Paz !  Luckily, I had the time, and the flexibility to be able to return to Bolivia later on in my journey, and this time I knew I had to do a Salar de Uyuni tour.  This time, I was coming from Argentina into southern Bolivia, so decided to take one of the Uyuni Salt Flat tours from Tupiza, with Tupiza Tours.

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READ MORE: Backpacking Bolivia Travel Guide

What is the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flat?

First thing is first.  El Salar de Uyuni, or Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia are the largest salt flats in the world.   The Salar is actually called el Salar de Thunupa but is more commonly known as el Salar de Uyuni due to the proximity to the town of Uyuni.  Covering an area of 10,582 square kilometres, the Salar is thought to have 11 layers of salt, which vary between two and ten metres thick, covering mud & brine below.  The whole salar is estimated to contain around 10 thousand million tons of salt, of which around 25 thousand tons are extracted each year.

As the name suggests, the salt flats vary very little in height, no more than one metre, although their elevation at 3656 metres above sea level can cause problems with altitude sickness.  Drink plenty of water, and try to allow time in Bolivia before your tour to acclimatise to the altitude.

Where is El Salar de Uyuni?

The Salar is in the south west of Bolivia, not far from the border with Chile.  Uyuni itself is a town approximately 550km south of La Paz, and is the nearest large town to the salt flats, and where most of the tours leave from.

Which Salar de Uyuni Tour is Best for You?

The first thing to consider when planning your visit to the Salt Flats is how it will fit with the rest of your itinerary.  There are essentially 3 different routes, which can also be done in the reverse, depending on where you are coming from, and where you plan to go next.

Round Trip Uyuni – Uyuni

Starting the Salar tour in Uyuni is great for those who are coming from Machu Picchu, Peru, or Bolivia, and planning to continue their journey in Bolivia.  This is usually a 3 day tour, although if you are short on time it is possible to do a Salar de Uyuni day trip to see just the salt flats – but you will miss out on the other incredible scenery and coloured lagoons.  If you have time I definitely recommend the longer Uyuni tours which allow you to fully explore the area.

Atacama Chile – Uyuni (or Uyuni – Atacama Chile)

Starting and/or ending in Chile is best for those coming from, or going to Chile.  There are several companies based in Santiago de Chile or Atacama which run tours from Atacama to Salar de Uyuni.

Tupiza – Uyuni (or Uyuni – Tupiza)

Salt flat tours from Tupiza in the South of Bolivia, or ending in Tupiza, are best for those coming from, or going to Argentina.  It is also possible to start and finish the tour in Tupiza, although this means a long final day’s drive back to Tupiza.

Both of the options from Atacama and Tupiza actually take in more of the Bolivian countryside before arriving to the Salt Flats.  Generally, these tours are over 4 days, as you cover much more ground.  There is a lot of time spent driving in the 4×4, but the scenery is constantly changing and varies from desert sand, to rocky formations, colourful lagoons and snow-capped mountains – as well of course as the salt flats themselves.

How to Get to Uyuni

If you decide to start your tour from Uyuni, you can get a night bus from La Paz to Uyuni, which also runs the reverse route again on a night bus from Uyuni to La Paz.  There are several companies which run the route – Todo Turismo has the best reputation, with comfortable seats and a toilet, however I took a cheaper bus which was just fine (although without a toilet on board).  Don’t expect to get too much sleep though!  The road used to be unpaved, but is now paved all the way, and journey time is around 8 hours.  Todo Turismo leaves La Paz at 9pm.

If you are short on time, it is possible to take a night bus from La Paz, and start the Uyuni tour that morning, and take another night bus back to La Paz that night, if you wish.  It is best to book the buses in advance if you can, to make sure you are guaranteed a place.

You can also fly to El Salar de Uyuni Airport, flights from La Paz to Uyuni cost around $250-$300, depending on the time of year, and take around 50 minutes.

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Hostels in Uyuni Bolivia

If you prefer to spend a night in Uyuni, there are several hostels and hotels in Uyuni to choose from.  There isn’t much to do in Uyuni itself, so one night before the tour would be enough.

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The Best Time of Year to Visit El Salar de Uyuni

Deciding when to visit the Salar de Uyuni is a tough call.  In general, dry season is best as in rainy season some of the routes across the salar become impassable, and Isla Incauhuasi is closed.  However, if you can time it right to visit when there is still some water on the ground you have a chance of taking those beautiful photographs with a mirror-like reflection between the sky & the standing water on the salar.  With nothing but salt for miles around, you lose all sense of perspective and it seems like the sky goes on forever.  I went in March, and although there was still some water I didn’t get the chance to take those reflection shots, so it also depends on the weather, your driver, and a good dose of luck too!

Choosing a Company for the Uyuni Tour

I was getting rather worried when I was trying to find the company which offers the best Salar de Uyuni tours.  For every good review one company got, there was a terrible review to match it.  Horror stories of drunk drivers, crashes on the freezing salt flats, breakdowns, poor organization, rude guides and everything that could possibly go wrong plagued the reviews on Tripadvisor.  It seemed that the various tour agencies contracted the freelance guides, and the experience totally depended on the guide.  In the end, due to my route from Northern Argentina to La Paz, I took the tour from Tupiza, to finish in Uyuni.  If you are taking this route, I was very happy with my choice of Tupiza Tours .  For other routes, check recent reviews on Tripadvisor for up to date experiences from other travellers.  Salar de Uyuni tour companies with reasonable reviews include Red Planet, although I can’t personally vouch for them as I didn’t travel with them.

My Experience on El Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats

I decided to start my Uyuni tour from Tupiza, as I was currently in Iguazu Falls, and wanted to finally head back through Bolivia to see some friends at Colibri Camping who I had met last time I was in Bolivia, then back to Peru.

I contacted both of the top Salar de Uyuni tour companies in Tupiza; Tupiza Tours and Torre Tours.  I had asked a couple of questions about travelling alone to see if there were other people on the tours for the date I was looking for, and Torre Tours replied with a stock response without answering my questions.  Tupiza Tours answered my questions, and offered a better rate for a 4 person tour, and Erika from Tupiza Tours assured me there would be a full tour going to avoid me paying extra fees.  Based on this initial contact, I chose to book with Tupiza tours & I’m very happy I did.

As I mentioned, there seemed to be an element of luck with which guide you get on the tour, but our guide was fabulous.  Sadly, I have forgotten his name as I lost my original notes when I had my laptop stolen in Ecuador.  He was fabulous, explaining our route and the landscape we passed through.  He was an excellent driver, safe and experienced, and was the first to drive across the Salar at night so we could reach Isla Incahuasi first for sunrise.  Driving across a huge expanse of salt desert with no signposts, and no compass, is no easy task, and other drivers seemed hesitant to lead what became a convoy of cars across the salt flats.

Another reason I was very happy with my choice, is that Tupiza Tours had 2 cars going out on the same day, so we shared one cook between the two cars.  Again, this was pretty lucky, but the cook usually went with the other car so we had plenty of space for spreading out in our car!  I also noticed each car had a spare wheel, which came in handy when we found Torre Tours’ car needed a replacement, which they didn’t have.  I felt our drivers were more experienced, and better prepared than Torre Tours, who also had 6 tourists plus their cook & guide in the car.

The food was good, and we had plenty of hot tea and snacks too.  The coca tea definitely helped with the altitude!

The Route from Tupiza to Uyuni through Southern Bolivia

We left Tupiza early in the morning, and headed through the Quebrada de Palala to the Sillar, where we passed fascinating coloured rock formations.  We visited an abandoned colonial ghost town, San Antonio Viejo, which was plagued with mysterious illness so the people moved away, leaving creepy ruins of homes and churches.  We spent the night in Quetena, and set out again early the next day.

The second day of the tour was all about lakes.  We visited several coloured lagoons, all taking on the colour of the minerals from the mountains around them.  La Laguna Colorada one spectacular, and had some flamingos sifting through the lake water.  Then, the scenery changed to sandy desert as we crossed ‘Dali’s Desert’ where bizarre rock formations stand in the middle of nowhere.  Along the way we also spotted a couple of ostriches and vicuna, a rare relative of the llama family.

On the third day, we crossed the Desert of Siloli, with more strange rock formations including the ‘Arbol de Piedra’ (the stone tree).  We visited more lakes, passed active volcanos and the Salar de Chiguana to finish in Atulcha, spending the night there in a salt hotel.

On the final day, we left when it was still dark, to drive across our first part of the Salar de Uyuni, to reach Isla Incahuasi for sunrise.  This bizarre island in the middle of the Salar is formed from volanic rock, and offers 360 degree views of the Salar.  It is also covered with huge cacti, some up to 1200 years old!  We climbed to the top and waited for the sunrise, a beautiful sight indeed.  After breakfast, we took some of the famous Salar de Uyuni photographs, which was entertaining trying to get the perspective just right.  Our guide had brought some props, and with a bit of imagination we got some great shots.

We then visits the community of Colchani, where the first salt hotel was built, and where they extract salt from the Salar for processing.  We ended the tour at the rather creepy train cemetery just outside the town of Uyuni.

How Much does the Salar de Uyuni Tour Cost

Salar de Uyuni tour prices vary quite a bit.  Remember that cheap is not always best when it comes to your safety, however, in most cases the tours all offer very similar packages, and there is no such thing as a Salar de Uyuni luxury tour.  All accommodation in the salt hotels is pretty basic, no hot water in most cases, and with temperatures dropping to below zero at night due to the high altitude, luxury just doesn’t come into it!  I was quoted a cost of 5200 BS between 4 people, so 1300 BS per person in 2016.

What is Included in the Salar de Uyuni Tours

Transport in a 4×4 (some companies will have a maximum of 4 people plus the driver & cook, others have 6 people max, plus the driver which can get cosy!)

Three meals per day: breakfast, lunch & dinner, excluding breakfast on the 1 st day and dinner on the last day.

Drinking water

Basic accommodation

Driver/Spanish speaking guide & cook

Additional Costs:

Entry for the Reserva Nacional Eduardo Avaroa (150 Bs in 2016)

Entry for the Isla Incahuasi (30 Bs in 2016)

Payments for showers/bathroom facilities where appropriate (approx. 15 Bs in 2016)

English speaking guide, if required approx. 200 Bs per person

Personal spending & tips

What Should You Bring on the Salar de Uyuni Tour:

Photocopy of your passport                            Sleeping bag (available to rent if needed)

Warm clothing                                                    [amazon_textlink asin=’B00ZLN4VCO’ text=’Hiking boots’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’talesofaback-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’c500860d-3051-11e8-a74c-196bd4b898c2′] [amazon_textlink asin=’B004D2DR0Q’ text=’Sun screen’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’talesofaback-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’d0d53d96-3051-11e8-ad10-3b596aadb007′]                                                        [amazon_textlink asin=’B013MSPS1M’ text=’Sun hat’ template=’ProductLink’ store=’talesofaback-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’03f48d2d-3052-11e8-9346-5b8478579a28′]

Woolly hat & gloves                                          Bathing suit

What are the Salt Hotels?

All accommodation on the Salar de Uyuni itself is in Salt Hotels.  A salt hotel or ‘hotel de sal’ is physically made of salt bricks, with a salt floor, and although the beds were comfortable I was still glad of the extra sleeping bag I had booked.  There were limited shower facilities, and shared bathrooms, and I shared a room with one or three of my fellow (male) tourists.  As it was cold inside I still wore several layers of clothes inside, but I was actually surprised at how nicely decorated our salt hotel was.

Overall, the tour of the Salar de Uyuni was one of the highlights of my travels around South America.  I am very glad I chose to do the route from Tupiza as we saw more of Bolivia’s incredible rugged scenery.  If you are a fussy eater, or a big eater then take some snacks with you, bring plenty of warm clothes, and enjoy!

Have you been to el Salar de Uyuni?  Any other tips you would like to share?  Please let me know in the comments below.

By the way, this wasn’t a sponsored trip, I loved my experience and wanted to share with you all the details of the Uyuni salt flats tours from Tupiza.

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Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

20 thoughts on “ Tupiza Tours: Uyuni Salt Flat Tours from Tupiza Bolivia ”

Awesome, it is a great trip! Actually I took my time with a couple of weeks – I crossed the border at Foz do Iguacu to Paraguay on foot then took a bus (I went to Asuncion then Encarnacion to see some of Paraguay but you can just pick one if you like) then to Corrientes in Argentina, then Salta, and north to Jujuy, Tilcara and La Quiaca (just spending the night) before crossing into Bolivia to Tupiza. If you’re short on time I’m not sure how quickly you could do this – I presume you could also take a bus from the Argentinean side of Iguazu straight to Posadas (close to Encarnacion) then on to Salta but either way would take a few days probably, unless you can find a bus direct to Salta from Iguazu.

Great post! We are actually visiting Iguazu Falls now and then planning on making our way to Bolivia. First on our agenda is the salt flats! How did you get to Tupiza from Iguazu??

Hi Libby! I emailed them initially, I think I sent a form through their website – I’ve had a look at my emails and found these two addresses for them [email protected] and [email protected] – they replied to me on the same day so hopefully it won’t take too long! I don’t have a phone number for them, just what is on the website. Good luck!

Hi Claire! Were you able to get in touch with Tupiza tours ahead of time by phone or by email? I haven’t been able to get through when I called the number listed on their website and am just wondering what the turnaround is for an email response from them? Do you happen to have the number you reached the woman Erika on if you did in fact communicate with them by phone? Thanks in advance for the help. 🙂

I almost considered not going to Bolivia because I need a visa and it is really a painful process to apply for it in advance. But your post inspires me to visit and the same as you, I dont want to leave South America with regrets, so I will try to get my visa in Chile or Argentina and go from there. Thanks for mentioning the name of the tour companies. You are right about the reviews, I really cannot find a tour agent not have a bad review.

I really want to make it to the salt flats in Bolivia sometime! We’ve been to the salt flats in Utah, but they are much smaller and less diverse so Salar de Uyuni would be such a cool adventure. I always love the perspective shots–they make me laugh! 🙂 Thanks for the great breakdown on routes–super helpful tips! Looks like you had a great trip!

This is great info. I am going to pin this. I really want to visit the salt flats so this is great informative post.

Oh, this looks incredible and it reminded me of the similar kilometer expanses in Kutch. Your pictures are simply amazing as well as some shots are super cool. The train cemetery too looks cool and I think it will be a different experience staying at salt hotels. Overall, this whole trip looks super exciting.

What an incredible experience. Bolivia is on my bucketlist. I hope my South America dream trip comes true soon!

The salar de Uyuni are really high on our bucket list! I always thought it^s only the flats, but you showed so many other fantastic landscapes <3 The salt hotels sound really cool! Thank you for the tip with the extra booked sleeping bag 😀 Kudos for the shot at the train cemetery!

This is a great guide! So helpful to know that you had a good experience with Tupiza Tours. I’ve heard so many nightmare experiences about some of the tour companies, especially regarding drunk driving, so it’s great to know that there are some that put safety as a higher priority.

Looks like you had an amazing trip! I would love to experience this, thank you for all your tips, safety is so important. Your photos are beautiful and the salt hotel looks very interesting, can’t believe everything is made with salt!

This is such fantastic information! I was just in Peru and considered going to Bolivia just for the salt flats but it didn’t work out! Great post!

Yay! So happy to see this because this trip has been on our travel bucket list. It looks so beautiful there and can’t wait to go.

I’m visiting the Salt flats next year. missed out on it this year due to travel problems :/ But your post just gave me more motivation.

I’ve wanted to visit here for awhile now. I am so fascinated by the fact there is SO MUCH SALT in one place! Loving your photos =)

Is there anything that you didn’t write here? You have covered each and every details of the tour. It is like a one stop shop. I hate it too when I get impersonal and stock replies from companies. By reading your post I understand the importance of choosing the correct season and how important is ‘luck’ in getting those reflective photos. I almost got a virtual tour of Salar through your blog!

The salt flats look incredible. Must have been an out of the world experience. The Train cemetery also caught my attention and it sounds really fascinating. I was reminded of similar salt flats in Kutch, India which has a similar kind of landscape.

I’ve never heard of this and it looks so amazing. Great tips on drinking plenty of water and the time to acclimatise yourself. I also love reading personal experiences with tour companies. Based on the two responses you received, I would have done the same thing and gone with the one that had a better response. It really goes to show how important that initial contact is!

Learning about the salt flats was fascinating. Had no idea that it covered ten thousand million tons of salt! How did all that salt get there in the first place? Also so sorry to hear that you lost your laptop in Ecuador.

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