5-Day Uyuni Salt Flats and Desert Adventure from La Paz

La Paz , Bolivia

5-Day Uyuni Salt Flats and Desert Adventure from La Paz

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About this experience

Depart La Paz for an unforgettable expedition in a 4x4 Toyota land cruiser through the vast and blinding-white salt flats of Uyuni and into the desert of southwest Bolivia. Along the way, visit tiny villages, multi-coloured lakes with flamingos, geysers, and thermal hot-springs at 4,000 - 5,000m.

Available options

5-Day Uyuni Salt Flats

Rate per person

What's included

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

Shared Salt Flats Excursion

Transport as per itinerary

English-speaking guide for some experiences

1 overnight trip in tourist bus from La Paz to Uyuni

1 overnight trip in tourist bus from Uyuni to La Paz

4WD transport on tour (max 7 people per car)

What's not included

Toilets along the Way (10 Bs)

Gratuities

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Toiletries (towels, toilet paper, soap, etc)

Entrance fee to Incahuasi Island (approx. 30 Bs)

Entrance fee to Eduardo Avaroa Reserve (approx. 150 Bs)

Sleeping bag (must be requested in advance rental available for 50 Bs)

Hot shower at the lodges (approx. 30 Bs)

Private room during Uyuni Expedition (approx. price - subject to availability)

Change to Vegan Meals

Change to Gluten Free Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or force majeure events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as close as possible.

During the rainy season from January to April, the Salt Flats fill up with water so it is not possible to cross them in the same way as during dry season. As a consequence, the itinerary is modified during that period. The main changes are usually as follows:

Instead of stopping at the Inca Wasy (Fish Island), we stop at a place where the water reflects the sky and where it seems that the sky and the ground merge into one.

On day 2, we might sleep at another location.

We visit the Sol de Mañana Geyser and hot springs at the end of day 3 instead of in the morning of day 4.

Altitude: This trip takes place at a very high altitude. The salt flats are around 5,000 meters above sea level, and most guests will be able to feel the effects. We recommend acclimating yourself to above 3,000 meters before the trip and bringing along medication for headaches and tablets for altitude sickness in case you feel unwell. And remember, the real key is to drink lots of water!

Accommodation / Facilities on Tour: The reality of visiting a remote area and immersing yourself in nature is that you will be far from modern facilities and the services will sometimes be slow and quite basic. Due to the harsh terrain, vehicle breakdowns are not uncommon, but the drivers are very used to fixing them and wait times are rarely excessive. The accommodations will be very basic, with cots and shared rooms, and the electricity and running water in the National Park are not as dependable as they are back at home. Toilet facilities have a small local cost. Make sure to bring snacks, some water, toilet paper, and plenty of warm clothes. That said, with some patience, preparation, and an appetite for adventure, this trip will certainly be a positive and unforgettable experience.

Suggested packing list: Sun hat, sunglasses (to protect your eyes from the bright glare off the salt panes), sunblock, coat, gloves, wool hat, trekking shoes, warm socks, swimsuit and towel for hot springs at Sol de Manana Geysers, extra bottles of water (we recommend bringing a 5 Liter bottled water so you can have enough water for the whole trip), snacks, personal medication. Flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card, charger (electricity available in most hotels), hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit. You will be sleeping up to 4,300 meters above sea level and depending on the season, temperatures can drop well below zero (reaching less than -15 degrees Celsius in the winter months of June and July) and the wind chill can be harsh, so bring plenty of warm clothes like a scarf and wool hat for the chilly evenings.

Please bring only the necessary material & clothes during the tour

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions.

Important notes

• This voucher is not the final confirmation and will not be valid to board the bus or join the tour
• Important: Please contact Bamba Experience at go@bambaexperience.com to confirm your departure information at least 1 week prior to your first day of travel. Bamba will make sure to send you a formal confirmation with all the information that you need in order to get your bus tickets and board your trip.
• Altitude: This trip takes place at a very high altitude (5,000 m). We recommend acclimating yourself to above 3,000 meters before the trip and bringing medication for headaches and altitude sickness in case you feel unwell. Remember to drink lots of water!
• Packing list: Water (we recommend bringing a 5 Liter bottled water so you can have enough water for the whole trip), snacks, personal medication, toilet paper, sun hat, sunglasses (to protect your eyes from the bright glare off the salt panes), sunblock, coat, gloves, wool hat, trekking shoes, warm socks, swimsuit and towel for hot springs at Sol de Manana Geysers, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card, charger (electricity available in most hotels), hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit.
• It can get very cold especially during the winter months (June and July) so bring extra warm clothes, like a scarf and wool hat to keep warm

About La Paz

La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, offering a unique blend of indigenous and colonial culture. It's known for its dramatic Andean landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich history, making it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers.

Top Attractions

Mi Teleférico

A unique cable car system offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's an efficient way to get around and a major attraction in itself.

Transportation/Attraction Varies Budget

Plaza Murillo

The main square of La Paz, surrounded by important government buildings and historic sites. It's a central point for understanding the city's political and historical significance.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas)

A unique market selling traditional remedies, herbs, and other items used in local folklore and traditional medicine. It's a fascinating glimpse into the city's indigenous culture.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, items for sale vary in price

Valle de la Luna

A surreal lunar-like landscape formed by erosion, located just outside of La Paz. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering a unique natural experience.

Nature Half day Budget

Museo Nacional de Arqueología

A comprehensive museum showcasing Bolivia's rich archaeological heritage, including pre-Columbian artifacts and exhibits on indigenous cultures.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salteñas

A type of savory empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes cheese. It's a popular street food and a must-try in La Paz.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Pique a lo Macho

A hearty dish made with beef, fried potatoes, eggs, and a spicy sauce. It's a popular late-night snack or meal.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options

Silpancho

A dish consisting of a thin beef patty topped with rice, fried egg, and onions. It's a flavorful and filling meal.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options

Anticuchos

Grilled beef heart skewers, often served with a spicy sauce. It's a popular street food and a taste of Bolivian cuisine.

Snack Contains meat, can be made with chicken or other meats

Popular Activities

Mountain biking on Death Road Hiking in Valle de la Luna Trekking to Lake Titicaca Coffee tasting at local cafes Strolling through Sopocachi Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring the Witches' Market Visiting museums and historic sites

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry season)

The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish, Aymara, Quechua
Widely spoken: Spanish, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

La Paz is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use official taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

El Alto International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Buses La Paz

Getting around

Public transport

La Paz has a unique cable car system that connects different parts of the city. It's efficient and offers stunning views.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Taxis La Paz

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sopocachi San Pedro Zona Sur

Day trips

Tiwanaku

72 km (45 miles) • Full day

An ancient archaeological site dating back to the Tiwanaku culture, offering a glimpse into Bolivia's rich pre-Columbian history.

Lake Titicaca

140 km (87 miles) • Full day or overnight

The world's highest navigable lake, offering stunning landscapes and cultural experiences with the local indigenous communities.

Death Road (North Yungas Road)

75 km (47 miles) • Full day

A thrilling mountain biking experience on one of the world's most dangerous roads, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush.

Festivals

Alasitas Fair • January 24 Gran Poder • May or June (varies) Carnaval de Oruro • February or March (varies)

Pro tips

Acclimate to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Use the Mi Teleférico cable car system for efficient and scenic transportation
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
Visit the Witches' Market for a unique cultural experience and to purchase traditional remedies