Excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flats from La Paz by round-trip bus
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About this experience
Traveling by bus from La Paz to the Uyuni Salt Flats is a convenient way to explore this wonderful salt flats. Night buses depart between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, arriving in the morning to begin the tour of the salt flats, which includes visits to the Train Cemetery and Incahuasi Island. Afterward, return by night bus to La Paz.
Available options
Excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flats from La Paz by round-trip bus
Pickup included
What's included
Snacks at sunset
Lunch
4x4 jeep transport.
English Option
Guide in English
Pick up and transfer back to the hotel.
Detailed itinerary
1
Take an overnight bus from La Paz to Uyuni (departures are usually around 8:00-10:00 PM).
Arrive in Uyuni at dawn on day 2 (approximately 9-12 hours of travel)
2
Stop 2
The tour begins with a visit to the Train Cemetery, which are remnants of machinery dating from the late nineteenth century
3
After 30 minutes you will visit Colchani small town where you will observe the salt process, if you like to buy handicrafts made from salt or textiles, llama or alpaca wool is a good place to choose one
4
continuing with the tour you will go directly to Incahuasi Island where you will see giant cacti, petrified coral rock formations and a spectacular panoramic view of the Salar
5
then get ready to see the wonderful Salar de Uyuni that has more than 10,000 square kilometers, inside the Salar you will appreciate the Salt Piles (small salt pyramids that the people of the town make to dry and then process the salt), then you will see the Eyes from the Salar (which are natural conduits through which salt water circulates and ends in holes) then you will know the first and only Hotel de Sal (Museum) within the salt flat,
6
Take the bus back to La Paz at night (departure around 8:00-10:00 PM). You will arrive in La Paz at dawn on day 3.
Arrive at the terminal in La Paz with time to rest or continue your journey to another destination.
What's not included
Incahuasi Ticket
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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3 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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