Salar de Uyuni, often referred to as the “Jewel of Bolivia,” stands as an unparalleled gem in the heart of South America, captivating the hearts and imaginations of travelers from around the globe. This mesmerizing salt flat, spanning over 10,000 square kilometers, not only serves as a testament to Mother Nature’s artistic prowess but also as a testament to Bolivia’s rich natural heritage.
In the year 2019, Salar de Uyuni was bestowed with the prestigious honor of being named the “Best Natural Tourist Attraction in South America” by the renowned World Travel Awards. This accolade is a testament to the ethereal beauty and sheer wonder that this destination holds, drawing travelers into a surreal world of endless salt plains, mirror-like reflections, and a celestial connection between Earth and sky.
The tour starts at 10:30 AM from the Skyline Traveller office. We first visit the Train Cemetery, where locomotives from the 1870s of English and French origin are on display.
11:00 AM – Our second stop is Colchani, where you can witness the manual salt production process and explore shops selling salt handicrafts, llama, and alpaca wool products.
12:00 PM – Next, we enter the Salar, where we observe the “eyes of the Salar,” the salt hotel constructed with salt blocks, the Dakar statue, and the flag plaza.
1:00 PM – Lunch
3:00 PM – We have time for perspective photos, videos, and much more.
4:00 PM – We reach Isla Incahuasi, the heart of the Salar, with giant cacti. Here, you can take a walk around the entire island, which takes about 40 minutes. At the end of the day, we wait to observe the sunset on the salt flat.
8:00 PM – Finally, we arrive at the salt accommodation in the village of San Juan (double, matrimonial, or triple rooms) with shared bathrooms. If you prefer a private bathroom, it can be arranged for an extra cost.
7:00 AM – After a delicious breakfast, we leave the accommodation between 6 AM and 7 AM to continue with the stops.
9:00 AM – You will see beautiful wind-eroded rocks, the Copa del Mundo, and the Camel.
11:00 AM – Italy Lost, Laguna Vinto, and Laguna Katal are challenging to access. To reach them in a 4×4, we have to leave the main road and take a small rocky and sandy path that leads to the edge of a small valley. You’ll enjoy a spectacular natural landscape with abundant flora and fauna.
12:00 PM – Lunch
2:00 PM – Valle de Rocas
4:00 PM – San Cristóbal Church, an architectural gem from the 17th century built by the Jesuits.
5:00 PM – Finally, we arrive in Uyuni, concluding the tour.
The tour typically includes visiting the vast salt flats, Incahuasi Island, the train graveyard, and local villages. The first day focuses on exploring the salt flats and Incahuasi, while the second day involves visiting cultural and historical sites before returning.
Essential items include warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. Also, bring water and snacks for personal use.
Yes, the tour includes one night’s accommodation. This is usually in a basic hotel made of salt, offering a unique experience.
Typically, meals are included, but it’s best to confirm with your tour provider. Vegetarian options are often available upon request.
The tour is low to moderate in physical difficulty, but the high altitude can affect some people. It’s advisable to acclimate before the tour if possible.