Uyuni , Bolivia

Day Trip to Uyuni Salt Flats

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(602 reviews)

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About this experience

This is a 7 hours packed adventure to discover the biggest Salt Flat in the world. Amazing scenery and places to go, combined with a skillful crew and equipment, makes indeed the perfect day trip. Historical Trains, Massive Salt desert, Lost Island with Giant Cacti and more awaits for you to be seen in this journey into the ancient lands of Bolivia. All guides will share their stories of the area, and help you out with all kinds of crazy perspective pictures in a special location in the middle of the Salty desert.

Available options

Day Trip to Uyuni Salt Flats

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel drop-off

Professional guide

Wine tasting

Lunch

Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)

All activities

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Starting the day at approx. 10:30 am, our guide gives you a short briefing on some recommendation for the tour, and shortly after you'll hop on a 4x4 drive Toyota Land Cruiser that will firstly take you to the Train Cemetery where a full story of the first trains that arrived in Bolivia, and their purposes will be uncovered.

Soon after the crew takes you to the small village of Colchani, where you could expect many handicraft shops for souvenirs, and also the salt factory, where the salt is being refined and packed for consumption. The lunch takes places in a Salt hotel with plenty of option for any taste.

Stop 2

Head toward the majestic Salar de Uyuni and start the real journey into the biggest salt flat on earth. Your first stop will be next to the only construction allowed in the Salar, which is called Playa Blanca, the first salt hotel build in the salt flat.

Next, a 30mins drive toward the middle of nowhere into a special location to take the best pictures of yourself and your friend by your experienced guide who will tell you how to do everything perfectly.
We'll then go to the Inca Wasy Island (Cactus Island) where will be able to see giant cacti and rock formations of petrified Coral. A short hike of 40mins. to the top and we'll reach the highest point of view in the trip with 3750 m.a.s.l (12,303.14 feet) where a 360* view of the hole Salt Flat awaits for you.

After this amazing hike, it will be time for the breathtaking sunset to come, at approx 6pm, and your driver will choose to the best location for it. At the end of our tour we'll return back to Uyuni at approx 6:30 - 7pm.

What's not included

Entrance fees to the park (30bs per person)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

591 reviews

5★

347

4★

117

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

CHECK IN IS AT 10:00 AM

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

It is important to understand that the Isla Inca Wasi is NOT available in the rainy season (January until March) unless specified by our company

One guide is divided between two cars ( 1 Guide for 12 people max )

All cars in the company are equiped with Radios to comunicate between eachother

Meeting point

MAIN STREET FERROVIARIA AVENUE

Important notes

• Not recommended for participants with back problems

Valid from the time of first use, for the duration selected.

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.