Transportation
Comfortable and reliable private 4WD
Group Size
Up to 5 people per 4WD vehicle
Duration
1 day
Difficulty
Moderate
We will begin our Bolivia Salt Flats Tours to Uyuni with a visit to the iconic Train Cemetery. Here, we will explore rusted locomotives that once powered Bolivia’s mining industry. This stop will offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
We will visit Colchani village, where we will witness traditional salt processing methods. We will also have the chance to purchase handmade salt-based souvenirs and experience the local culture.
We will continue our journey to the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni. This is the world’s largest salt flat, spanning over 10,000 square kilometers (3,860 square miles). We will marvel at the vast, reflective landscape, perfect for capturing stunning photos. The tour will take us across this natural wonder, revealing its unique hexagonal salt formations.
We will make our way to Incahuasi Island, also known as Isla Incahuasi. Here, we will hike among giant cacti and ancient rock formations, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding salt flats. This stop will allow us to experience the surreal beauty of the Bolivian Salt Flats from above.
Finally, we will return to Uyuni, completing our full-day Salar de Uyuni tour. Throughout the day, we will immerse ourselves in landscapes and cultural heritage. This makes it one of Bolivia’s most sought-after day tours.
From January to April, the Central Andes experience a weather phenomenon known as the Altiplano winter. This weather brings the rainy season. Due to this, the itinerary may be subject to changes, and we might not visit Incahuasi Island, as it is situated in the center of the salt flat, where water accumulates the most during this period.
Did you know that Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni is considered the flattest place on Earth? This vast salt flat, stretching over 4,000 square miles, is so level that NASA uses it to calibrate satellite instruments!
At 9:30 am, your driver and guide will pick you up in a private and comfortable vehicle. This will be from your hotel in Uyuni, Salt Hotel or airport. Our tour start and finish in Uyuni.
Train Cemetery. Your tour guide will explain the Bolivia’s rich history and mineral heritage. Also, you will encounter the surreal “train cemetery“from the XIX century. Here, once bustling with silver mining activity, now rest silently amidst the vast expanse of the desert.
Colchani Village. This village is 20 km far from Uyuni. Here you will witness the age-old methods of salt production produced by local quechua families. This is the best salt-made souvenirs shopping spot
In Colchani, you’ll discover unique salt-made handicrafts crafted by skilled artisans. By purchasing these creative souvenirs, you’ll directly support the local community. Also, you will take home a piece of authentic Bolivian craftsmanship.
Salar de Uyuni. Step onto the vast expanse of the salt flats. Visit the Dakar monument for its first version in Bolivia on 2016. Also, you will visit the first lodge of salt in the world and the colorful world-countries flags garden.
At noon it’s time to savor a delicious lunch featuring freshly-prepared local cuisine. The meal will have the company of breathtaking salt flat views.
Explore the wonderful Incahuasi Island, home of giant cactus Trichocereus Pasacana. It also homes the cute andean rodents locally known as Viscachas Lagidium Viscacia. For this we will need a 40 minute moderate hike. Later on, have fun taking perspective pictures with the help of our tour guide.
Sunset Spectacle: As the sun descends, watch in awe as the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas. Capture this awe-inspiring moment with panoramic photographs while enjoying Bolivian wine and tasty treats.
Return journey: Drive back to your hotel, arriving approximately at 6:30 PM.
The tour typically includes transportation to and from Uyuni. Also includes an experienced guide, lunch, and entrance fees to sites like Incahuasi Island.
You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, and plenty of water. Warm clothing is also recommended, as temperatures can vary.
Uyuni is at a high altitude, around 3,656 meters (11,995 feet) above sea level. If you’re prone to altitude sickness, it’s advisable to acclimate beforehand and consider bringing medication.
The best time depends on what you want to see. The rainy season (December to March) creates a stunning mirror effect, while the dry season (April to November) offers clear skies and access to areas like Incahuasi Island.
The tour typically lasts around 8 to 10 hours, starting in the morning and finishing in the late afternoon.
Many tours start in San Pedro de Atacama. However, we start in Uyuni.
Remember that you can customize your tour with visits to Polques hot springs, Eduardo Avaroa National Park. Also, you can visit Arbol de Piedra or Sol de Mañana.
Yes, most tours include lunch, which is often served in a scenic location within the salt flats.
Yes, the tour stops in Colchani village, where you can buy handmade salt-based souvenirs and other local crafts.
Weather in Uyuni can be unpredictable. The salt flats can be very hot during the day and cold at night, so it’s important to dress in layers.
Absolutely! The Bolivia Salt Flats are one of the most photogenic places on earth, and the tour includes ample time for photography.
