Magical Uyuni Salt Flats: Full Day Tour with Lunch

Uyuni , Bolivia

Magical Uyuni Salt Flats: Full Day Tour with Lunch

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About this experience

Experience the Magic of the Uyuni Salt Flats

Embark on a full-day adventure across one of the world’s most surreal landscapes.

Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pick-up in Uyuni with a professional, bilingual guide (English/Spanish).

Along the way, you’ll explore the region’s most unforgettable highlights:

- Train Cemetery, walk among rusting locomotives that whisper stories of Bolivia’s past
- Colchani Village, discover traditional salt-craft techniques from local artisans
- Flags of the World, a vibrant and iconic landmark in the endless white desert
- Lunch at the Stairway to Heaven, enjoy a delicious meal with impressive views
- Salt Museum & Old Salt Hotel, unique cultural stops made entirely of salt
- Sunset Walk, capture reflections and colors as the sun sets over the flats

This tour is designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Available options

Magical Uyuni Salt Flats: Full Day Tour with Lunch

What's included

Lunch

The transport will be provided in a 4WD car

Detailed itinerary

The journey begins with an 8-minute drive to the Train Cemetery. Next, you will visit the village of Colchani, where you’ll learn about the salt processing and have time to browse local souvenirs.

Afterwards, the trip continues by car into the Uyuni Salt Flats, heading towards the famous Flags area.

After that, you will visit the Stairway to Heaven, where you will also enjoy lunch. Nearby is the Salt Museum, featuring unique sculptures and a fun labyrinth to explore before continuing to the old Salt Hotel and the Dakar Monument.

The highlight of the day comes at sunset, when you can walk and explore the vast salt desert.

Dry season (May to November): Best time to experience the endless dry landscapes.

Wet season (December to April, sometimes until May): The perfect moment to witness the unique mirror effect on the flats.

On a good day, you may also visit Incahuasi Island, but during the wet season this stop is usually not possible.

What's not included

No drinks included

National park entrance fee

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Make sure you are in front of the Salar Paula office 30 minutes before departure time. Your tour guide will message you all the details the day before.

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.