3-Day Salar de Uyuni and Bolivian Desert Adventure from Uyuni

Uyuni , Bolivia

3-Day Salar de Uyuni and Bolivian Desert Adventure from Uyuni

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About this experience

Embark on an expedition in a 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser to explore the Uyuni Salt Flat, area deserts, local villages, multi-colored lakes with flamingos, geysers, and more on this 3-day, guided adventure from Uyuni, Bolivia and back. Guide, private transportation, accommodation and most meals included.

Available options

3-Day Salar de Uyuni and Bolivian Desert Adventure from Uyuni

Pickup included

What's included

Sleeping bag (if requested in advance)

Pickup from airport, bus stations or Uyuni hotels (must be advised in advance)

Lunch

1 Night shared family lodging (dorm of 6 beds with shared bathroom without light)

Dinner

Breakfast

1N Salt Hotel, basic dorm-style rooms w/ shared bathroom (hot shower included first night), seasonal

Local driver & English-speaking guide

Transportation in 4WD with rooftop luggage rack (Group size is up to 6 people per car.)

What's not included

Entrance Fees: Isla Incahuasi (30 Bs), Reserva Eduardo Avaroa Protected Area (150 Bs) (these costs are subject to change without prior notice)

Additional snacks & water bottles

Toilets along the Way (20 Bs)

Hot Shower (10 Bs)

Gratuities

Airport transfers

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Open-Air Hot Springs (6 BS*)

Change to Vegan meals

Gluten Free Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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.

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 will be available only on the first day and may 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.

As you will come back to your departure point, please only bring the necessary material and clothes during the tour.

During Jan - April (rainy season), the salt hostel is unavailable. Instead, you willl be staying in a hotel in Culpina or other location

Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.

Accommodation: 1 Night accommodation in Salt Hotel, basic dorm-style rooms w/ shared bathroom (hot shower included in the first night) 1 Night shared family lodging (dorm of 6 beds with shared bathroom without light) If you’d prefer a private room for both nights, there is an additional cost of 250 BS (approx 36 USD) per person. This is subject to availability so please inquire in advance.

Meeting point

You can also meet us at our local provider's office at 64 Avenida Bolivar.

Important notes

• Important: Please contact Bamba Travel at bookings@bambatravel.com to confirm your departure information at least 1 week prior to your first day of travel. This will help us arrange your pickup from the airport, bus stations, or Uyuni hotels. You can also meet us at a meeting point.
• 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.
• 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 Uyuni

Uyuni is a gateway to the world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, and offers a unique blend of natural wonders, adventure, and cultural experiences. The town is a hub for exploring the surreal landscapes of the Altiplano, including colorful lagoons, geysers, and flamingo-filled wetlands.

Top Attractions

Salar de Uyuni

The world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, is a surreal and otherworldly landscape that offers stunning views, especially during the wet season when it becomes a giant mirror.

Nature Full day or overnight trip Moderate (depends on tour package)

Incahuasi Island

A small island in the middle of the salt flat, Incahuasi Island is covered with giant cacti and offers panoramic views of the surrounding salt flat.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (included in most salt flat tours)

Train Cemetery

A unique and eerie attraction, the Train Cemetery is a collection of abandoned steam locomotives from the early 20th century, left to rust in the desert.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Laguna Colorada

A stunning red lagoon in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, Laguna Colorada is home to flamingos and other wildlife, and offers breathtaking views.

Nature Full day or overnight trip Moderate to Expensive (depends on tour package)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Silpancho

A traditional Bolivian dish made with beef, rice, potatoes, and a fried egg, served with a spicy sauce.

Main dish Contains beef and eggs

Salteñas

A type of empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and a spicy sauce, typically eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Snack Contains meat and spices

Api

A traditional Bolivian drink made from corn, sugar, and cinnamon, often served warm.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Salt flat tours Hiking in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve Wildlife watching Visiting local cafés Exploring the town center Enjoying traditional Bolivian cuisine Visiting local markets Exploring the Train Cemetery

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry season)

The dry season offers clear skies, making it ideal for exploring the salt flat and other natural attractions. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

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

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Aymara, Quechua
English: Limited

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Uyuni is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.

Getting there

By air

Joya Andina Airport • 5 km (3.1 miles) from city center

By train

Uyuni Train Station

By bus

Uyuni Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Uyuni, but they are not extensive. They are mainly used for travel to nearby towns and attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not widely used

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Town Center Train Cemetery Area

Day trips

Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve

180 km (112 miles) • Full day or overnight trip

The Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve is a stunning natural area home to colorful lagoons, geysers, and flamingos, offering a unique and breathtaking landscape.

Laguna Verde

150 km (93 miles) • Full day or overnight trip

Laguna Verde is a stunning green lagoon in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, offering breathtaking views and a unique landscape.

Festivals

Carnaval de Oruro • February/March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Stay hydrated and be aware of the signs of altitude sickness.
Use reputable tour operators and taxis to avoid scams and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.