The Salar de Uyuni, commonly referred to as the Uyuni Salt Flats, is the world’s largest salt flat, covering over 10,000 square kilometers in southwest Bolivia. Born from the evaporation of prehistoric lakes, this vast expanse of white salt creates an almost surreal landscape, especially during the rainy season when it transforms into a giant mirror reflecting the sky.
The Bolivian Altiplano, not far from the Uyuni Salt Flats, boasts a series of stunning colored lagoons. These high-altitude lakes, such as Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde, get their vivid hues from various mineral compositions and specific types of algae and plankton. For instance, Laguna Colorada is renowned for its reddish-pink waters, a color produced by the pigmentation of certain algae and the presence of red sediments.
Kick off your journey at 10:30 a.m. as you head to the Uyuni Salt Flats. Your initial destination is the eerie “Train Graveyard” located near Uyuni. Here, witness Bolivia’s early locomotives and delve into their historical significance linking major cities. These trains, now rusted from the salt-laden winds of the desert, offer a perfect backdrop for photographs.
Continue to the quaint village of Colchani, adjacent to the salt flats, where you can observe salt miners at work and discover unique salt handicrafts as well as textile creations from llama and alpaca wool. These items are perfect mementos of your trip. As you venture across the expansive salt flats, stop at “Ojos de Agua Salada”, the entirely salt-constructed hotel now functioning as a museum-restaurant, the Flags of the World display (add your flag for free), and the Dakar race monument.
Post exploration, savor lunch near “Isla Incahuasi” (Fish Island). Post lunch, you have the opportunity to ascend the island and admire the towering cacti and ancient coral rock formations.
Subsequently, gather your group for creative, perspective-skewing photos on the stark white salt flats. With a bit of imagination, capture some quirky and cherished moments. Conclude the day in a vast open area, witnessing the sun set over the salt flats, its colors brilliantly illuminating the landscape. Sip on a glass of wine and soak in the beauty.
Retire for the night in Agencha town, dining and resting at the local hostel.
Stay: Agencha Hostel offers rooms for 2-6 guests, all equipped with private bathrooms.
Begin your day with breakfast at 7:00 a.m. Your initial destination is the Chiguana Desert, located on the southern edge of the Uyuni salt flats. This area is framed by multiple volcanoes, including the active Ollagüe, which can be observed from a dedicated vantage point.
Next, journey along a rugged path to explore the Cañapa, Hedionda, and Chiarcota Lagoons, which are frequented by flamingoes.
Post lunch, venture into the “Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve”. Here, witness the stark beauty of the Siloli Desert, recognized as the world’s highest and driest desert. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the unique ‘Rock tree’, a natural lava rock formation. Before reaching the day’s end, pause at a viewpoint near the Red Lagoon, an incredible body of water with an intense red hue, home to numerous pink flamingoes. Spend the evening at a hostel in Huayllajara.
Lodging: The Huayllajara Hostel offers communal rooms accommodating 6 guests, with shared bathroom facilities.
Kick off your day early at around 5:00 a.m., heading to the Sol de Mañana Geyser, situated at an altitude of 5,000m. Wander alongside fumaroles and witness the spectacle of steaming craters brimming with bubbling mud at temperatures ranging from 150-200°C. Afterwards, embrace the chance to rejuvenate in the open-air hot springs with waters at a comfortable 35°C.
Journey next to the Dali Desert, aptly named for its striking resemblance to Salvador Dalí’s surrealistic artwork, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of colors and formations. From there, explore the intriguing Green and White Lagoons, known for their toxic copper waters, nestled at the base of the grand Licancabur volcano, just a stone’s throw from the Bolivia-Chile border.
Embark on a return trip to Uyuni, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes and enjoying a picnic lunch en route. Along the journey, traverse the Rock Valley (Alota) and make a brief halt at San Cristobal Village, reaching Uyuni town by 6:30 p.m.
For those inclined to end their adventure in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, rather than circling back to Uyuni, our guides will aid with your border transition at 10:30 a.m., leaving you at San Pedro de Atacama’s central plaza.
Should you wish to proceed to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, please arrange this transfer ahead of time. Travelers selecting this option will not be part of the return leg to Uyuni.
The tour usually starts with exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats, including the train graveyard and Incahuasi Island. On the second day, the tour typically covers the high desert landscapes, visiting various lagoons like Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde. The final day often includes additional lagoons and geothermal areas before returning.
Accommodations are generally basic and rustic, often in shared rooms in desert lodges or salt hotels. Comfort levels can vary, so it’s advisable to check with your tour operator for specific details.
Yes, meals are usually included for the duration of the tour. It’s important to inform the tour provider of any dietary restrictions in advance.
Bring warm and layered clothing as temperatures can vary drastically. Also, include a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a good camera. Given the remote nature of the tour, it’s also wise to bring any necessary personal items and medications.
Most activities are of low to moderate difficulty, but the high altitude can make physical activity more challenging. It’s recommended to spend a few days acclimating to the altitude before the tour if possible.
