15 Epic Things to Do at Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia: The Ultimate Guide
Welcome to the world’s largest salt flat, the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia—a truly otherworldly destination that feels like a trip to another planet. This incredible landscape, spanning over 10,500 square kilometers, is a photographer’s paradise and a dream destination for adventurers. Known for its surreal perspective photography opportunities and the breathtaking “mirror effect” during the rainy season, the Uyuni Salt Flats offer an unforgettable experience unlike any other. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your journey, providing essential tips on how to get there, what to do, and how to make the most of your time in this magnificent, remote corner of the world.
📍 01. Where is the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia?
The Uyuni Salt Flats, also known as Salar de Uyuni, are a breathtaking natural wonder located in the southwestern part of Bolivia, within the Potosí department. Situated high on the Altiplano—a high-altitude plateau of the Andes—at an elevation of over 3,600 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, it is the world’s largest salt flat. This vast expanse of gleaming white salt is a remnant of a prehistoric lake that dried up thousands of years ago, leaving behind a thick crust of salt and a sea of brine rich in minerals, including a significant portion of the world’s lithium reserves. The sheer scale and stunning, otherworldly landscape make it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique adventure.
✈️ 02. How to Get to the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia?
Reaching the Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia can be an adventure in itself, as it involves traveling to the remote town of Uyuni, the main gateway to the salt flats. Here are the most common ways to get there:
🛫 By Air
The fastest and most comfortable way to get to Uyuni is by flying. Joya Andina Airport (UYU) in Uyuni has daily flights from major Bolivian cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. This is the best option for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer to avoid long bus journeys.
From La Paz: Several airlines offer flights from El Alto International Airport (LPB) to UYU. The flight duration is approximately one hour.
From Santa Cruz: Flights from Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) are also available, with the flight time being around 1.5 to 2 hours.
🚌 By Bus
For budget-conscious travelers, buses are a popular choice. While they are more affordable, the journey can be long and sometimes uncomfortable, especially on unpaved roads.
From La Paz, overnight buses are the most common option, taking approximately 10 to 12 hours. Look for “cama” (bed) or “semi-cama” (semi-bed) buses for a more comfortable ride.
From Sucre: You can take a direct bus from Sucre to Uyuni. The journey is approximately 8 to 9 hours.
From Potosí: The bus ride from Potosí is relatively short, taking about 6 to 7 hours.
🚆 By Train
A scenic and unique way to reach Uyuni is by train. The “Expreso del Sur” and “Wara Wara del Sur” trains run from Oruro, which is reachable by bus from La Paz. This option is popular for its beautiful views of the Bolivian Altiplano.
Train from Oruro: The train journey takes about 7 to 8 hours and offers a more relaxed travel experience than the bus.
🚗 By Tour
Many travelers, especially those coming from neighboring countries, opt for multi-day tours.
From San Pedro de Atacama (Chile): This is a popular route, with 3-day/2-night tours that cross the border and include the salt flats as the final destination.
From Tupiza (Bolivia): A less-traveled but highly recommended route, offering a more extensive tour of the southern Altiplano before reaching the salt flats.
🏨 03. Where to Stay
The town of Uyuni offers a range of accommodations, from basic hostels to unique salt hotels. Your choice of lodging will depend on your budget and what you’re looking for.
🛌 Hotels and Hostels in Uyuni Town
Luxury Hotels:
These offer more comfort and services like private bathrooms and Wi-Fi.
Hotel Jardines de Uyuni – € 177
Jardines de Uyuni is 400 metres from the bus and train terminal. Rooms are styled with lively colours and rustic décor. Arce Square is 200 metres away, and the tour desk can offer tips for navigating the area. Guests can enjoy regional dishes at the on-site restaurant, which is open from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Joya Andina Ciudad Uyuni Airport is 5 km from the hotel. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.7 for a two-person trip. The hotel is very nice. Located in a central area, very close to many restaurants and tour offices. The reception is open 24/7, and they were very. We stayed here twice, either side of our 3-day trip into the salt flats. Everything was perfect, the hotel has lots of lounge areas, each one with. Everything, especially the incredibly helpful and efficient staff. Superb restaurant attached right next door, strong wifi, everything really good. This is one of the best hotels i ‘ve ever been so far,rooms are cozy, facilities are amazing staff super welcoming, in particular Milenka at the.
Hotel Cristales De Sal – € 75
Situated 2 km from Uyuni airport, the hotel offers easy access to local attractions. Guests enjoy a quiet street view and inner courtyard views. Hotel Cristales De Sal in Uyuni offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms, city views, and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the room comfort and size, ensuring a pleasant stay. Families particularly like the location — they rated it 8.3 for a stay with kids. Everything. I highly recommend it and would stay there again if in Uyuni. Breakfast was great, and the facilities were wonderful. Location is also great. Very friendly and helpful hotel. Good breakfast selection. Nice big room and huge bed. Good laundry service. Peaceful. We loved it! Driving into Uyuni we thought we couldn’t really expect any luxury here. However, this place was fantastic. Good location to walk anywhere in town and easy to the airport. Really nice staff. Great breakfast. Big and clean rooms and beds.
Hostal La Magia de Uyuni – € 60
Located 300 metres from the main square and central market. Computers are available for guest use and hot water is provided 24/7. The train and bus stations are 350 metres away. Guests at La Magia de Uyuni can order meals at the restaurant or relax at the solarium. Laundry services can be arranged upon request. La Magia de Uyuni is 20 km from the Salar de Uyuni salt mines and 1,5 km from the airport. Free private parking is possible on site. Families particularly like the location — they rated it 8.8 for a stay with kids. Restaurant staff were very nice, helped us with getting hot drinking water, heater, calling a taxi, etc. Thank you so much. Nice location in close.
Friendly staff. They allowed us to check in early and leave our bags after we checked out. The location was good and so were the facilities. The Great comfortable accommodation in a stylish historical building. Fantastic breakfast with eggs, lots of fruits, and fresh bakery products. The Beautiful hotel, well located, friendly staff, super comfortable bed, and spacious room. The barthroom was a bit dated but good for 1 night.
Budget Hostels:
You can find many budget-friendly hostels in Uyuni town with basic amenities.
Hostal Jerian – € 38
Located 2 km from Uyuni airport, the guest house is situated on a quiet street with city views. earby attractions include the Uyuni Salt Flats and the Train Cemetery. Families particularly like the location — they rated it 8.4 for a stay with kids. A continental breakfast with juice and fruits is served daily. Guests appreciate the quality and variety of the breakfast offerings. We were able to check in early morning (9 am-ish) after our overnight bus arrived without additional cost. Strong Wi-Fi. Breakfast included and is. We really enjoyed our stay at Hostel Jerian. The location was perfect, close to everything. Our room was comfortable. The staff were super. Comfortable, good location. Very nice staff and breakfast in bed! The manager was very helpful and nice. The room was perfect for taking a rest after traveling to the Atacama desert and the Uyuni salar. We had a wonderful experience staying here. The hotel is perfectly located — just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas, close to travel agencies.
Onkel Inn Wagon Sleepbox Uyuni – € 31
Onkel Inn Wagon Sleepbox Uyuni in Uyuni features a terrace and a shared lounge. Onkel Inn Wagon Sleepbox Uyuni offers a continental or buffet breakfast. Staff speak English and Spanish at the reception. The nearest airport is Uyuni Airport, 2 km from the property. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.3 for a two-person trip. I loved the room, and exactly as expected. The staff was super friendly and the check-in experience was smooth. I arrived early in the morning, and. Unusual setup. You sleep in a small railcar. Quite unique. They have a fan as well as a heater. A lot of power outlets. Hot water. Great location – both in terms of ease of movement but also in character, placed within the Railway Station. Breakfast was basic but with a few. Unique and fun place to stay for one night in the center of town, close to the bus station. It’s an old wagon, so expect the facilities to match.
Piedra Blanca Backpackers Hostel – € 29
Private check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, and housekeeping ensure a comfortable stay. Additional amenities include bicycle parking, a shared kitchen, and a tour desk. A highly rated breakfast is provided by the property, complemented by comfortable bathrooms and clean rooms. Guests appreciate the quality of the breakfast and the overall cleanliness of the accommodations. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.2 for a two-person trip. It’s the best hostel structure on my trip to Bolívia. You don’t hear other people’s sounds, and there are 6 blankets for each person in the private. Modern building, comfortable bed, hot shower, very clean, reception 24hours, they let me check in at 6 AM for just 3 USD more. The hostel is located 1km. The accommodation was fantastic, it was clean, amazing warm beds, great hot water, and heating. A well-maintained and appointed kitchen and great. Amazing staff. Great facilities and a cozy environment. Heaters in every room, clean rooms with exceptional shared bathrooms if needed. Friendly.
The place is really warm and clean, and the staff were very friendly. Showers we’re hot and the breakfast was very good
🧂 Salt Hotels
For a truly unique experience, consider staying in a hotel made entirely of salt blocks. The walls, floors, and even some furniture are crafted from salt.
Casa de Sal – Salt Hotel – € 87
Situated 2 km from Uyuni airport, the hotel offers easy access to local attractions. Guests enjoy a quiet street view and inner courtyard views. Hotel Cristales De Sal in Uyuni offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms, city views, and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the room comfort and size, ensuring a pleasant stay. Families particularly like the location — they rated it 8.3 for a stay with kids. Everything. I highly recommend it and would stay there again if in Uyuni. Breakfast was great, and the facilities were wonderful. Location is also great. Very friendly and helpful hotel. Good breakfast selection. Nice big room and huge bed. Good laundry service. Peaceful. We loved it! Driving into Uyuni we thought we couldn’t really expect any luxury here. However, this place was fantastic. Good location to walk anywhere in town and easy to the airport. Really nice staff. Great breakfast. Big and clean rooms and beds.
Palacio de Sal – € 255
One of the most famous and luxurious salt hotels, offering a premium stay with all the modern amenities.
Guests are also offered a complimentary airport shuttle service throughout their stay.
Rooms at Palacio de Sal feature private bathrooms. The restaurant offers a regional menu with a wide variety of salty dishes like llama meat, lamb, and chicken. Guests at Hotel Palacio de Sal can enjoy the game room or request luggage storage services. Free public parking is possible on site.
Colchani town is a 15-minute drive and Uyuni airport is 25 km from the hotel. Please note that we have an amusement park for young and old inside the hotel, with several attractions and a sports bar. Couples particularly like the location.
Luna Salada Hotel – € 120
Another popular choice known for its stunning views and comfortable rooms.
Almost completely built out of salt blocks, Hotel de Sal Luna Salada offers rooms with overlooking the Uyuni salt mine. Breakfast is served and there is a restaurant. Uyuni town is 30 minutes away by car. Free WiFi is available in common areas. Decorated with exposed salt blocks, rooms at Luna Salada heating and seating areas. All of them have private bathrooms. A buffet breakfast is served daily. The restaurant offers Andean Cuisine. Lunch and dinner can be requested at a fee. Additionally, spa services are offered for an extra fee. Guests can enjoy themselves reading a book by the fireplace, or book excursions to visit the salt mine. There is also a games room featuring billiards and table tennis. Free parking is provided. Hotel de Sal Luna Salada is 25 km from the train cemetery and 30 km from Joya Andina Airport.
Couples particularly like the location
⛺ Overnight Tours
If you book a multi-day tour, your accommodation will likely be included. These are typically basic guesthouses or refuges, especially in the more remote areas of the Altiplano.
📸 04. Things to Do
The Uyuni salt flat Bolivia is not just a single destination; it’s a gateway to a surreal landscape filled with incredible sights. Here are some of the must-do activities.
🚗 Salar de Uyuni Day Tour
This is the most popular option for travelers. The tour typically includes:
Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes): A collection of abandoned steam locomotives just outside of Uyuni.
Colchani Village: A small village where locals extract and process salt, offering a glimpse into their daily lives.
Ojos de Agua (Water Eyes): Small bubbling pools of water and gas that emerge from beneath the salt crust.
Dakar Rally Monument: A monument dedicated to the famous rally, serving as a great photo spot.
🏝️ Visit Isla Incahuasi (Cactus Island)
In the middle of the white salt desert lies Isla Incahuasi, an island covered in giant, towering cacti. This is a great spot to hike, and for the panoramic views of the salt flats, it’s an amazing place for photography.
🌅 Sunset and Sunrise Tours
Witnessing the sunrise or sunset over the salt flats is an unforgettable experience. The changing colors of the sky reflected on the endless white surface create a magical atmosphere. A stunning atmosphere to explore.
✨ Star-Gazing and Night Photography
Due to its high altitude, lack of light pollution, and clear skies, the Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia is one of the best places in the world for stargazing and night photography. The Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye, and it creates stunning reflections on the water during the wet season.
🏞️ Explore the Surrounding Altiplano
Many travelers extend their trip to include a 3-day/2-night or 4-day/3-night tour of the surrounding region. This includes:
Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon): A vibrant red lake filled with thousands of flamingos.
Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon): A stunning green lake with the Licancabur volcano in the background.
Geysers Sol de Mañana: A geothermal area with boiling mud pots and steam vents.
Árbol de Piedra (Stone Tree): A unique rock formation in the Siloli Desert.
🥘 05. Food \& Local Cuisine
Food in Uyuni is generally basic, but you’ll find some local delicacies worth trying. On multi-day tours, meals are usually provided by the tour operator.
🥔 Quinoa
Bolivia is famous for its quinoa, and you’ll find it in many dishes, from soups to stews.
🦙 Llama Meat
Llama is a common source of protein in the Andes. You can find it in various forms, including roasted or in stews.
🥣 Andean Soup
Warm, hearty soups are a staple in the cold, high-altitude climate. They are often made with vegetables, potatoes, and quinoa.
☕ Coca Tea
A local remedy for altitude sickness, coca tea is widely available and a good way to help your body acclimatize.
🗓️ 06. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the uyuni bolivia salt flats depends on what you want to see. Each season offers a different experience.
💧 Wet Season (December to April)
This is the best time to see the famous “mirror effect.” During this season, a thin layer of rainwater covers the salt flats, creating a perfect reflection of the sky. This is an incredible opportunity for photographers. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding, and tours may need to adjust their routes accordingly.
☀️ Dry Season (May to November)
During the dry season, the salt flats are arid, revealing a vast expanse of hexagonal salt formations. This is the ideal time for perspective photography, where you can experiment with depth and create creative, mind-bending photos. The weather is also generally sunny and dry, but temperatures can drop significantly at night.
🎒 07. Travel Tips
Visiting the Uyuni Salt Flat Bolivia requires some preparation. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Acclimatize to the Altitude: The Uyuni Salt Flats are located at a very high altitude. Spend a day or two in La Paz or another high-altitude city before heading to Uyuni to avoid altitude sickness.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat the effects of altitude and the dry climate.
Pack Layers: The weather can change dramatically. It can be very hot and sunny during the day and cold at night. Pack layers of clothing, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
Protect Your Eyes and Skin: The sun’s reflection off the white salt is very intense. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from sunburn.
Bring Cash: Most places in Uyuni do not accept credit cards. Have enough cash (Bolivian Bolivianos) for tours, food, and souvenirs.
Choose a Reputable Tour Operator: Research and book with a reliable tour agency. Ensure they have safe vehicles, experienced guides, and positive reviews.
💰 08. Budgeting + Sample 3-Day Itinerary
A trip to the uyuni salt flat in Bolivia can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you travel by bus. Here’s a sample budget and a popular itinerary to give you an idea of what to expect.
💸 Budgeting
Tour Cost: A 3-day/2-night tour from Uyuni typically costs between $150 and $250 per person, depending on the operator and group size. This usually includes transportation, a guide, accommodation, and all meals.
Flights: Flights from La Paz to Uyuni can range from $50 to $150.
Food: Meals on tours are included, but you should budget for snacks and drinks.
Park Entrance Fees: You’ll need to pay an entrance fee for the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, which is around 150 BOB (approx. $22).
🗺️ Sample 3-Day Uyuni Itinerary
This is the most common itinerary offered by tour operators, covering all the major highlights.
Day 1: The Salt Flats
Morning: Visit the Train Cemetery and the salt-processing village of Colchani.
Afternoon: Explore the vast salt flats, take perspective photos, and visit the Salt Hotel and Isla Incahuasi.
Evening: Watch the sunset over the salt flats and head to a guesthouse for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: The Altiplano
Morning: Travel through the Siloli Desert, visiting the Árbol de Piedra rock formation.
Afternoon: See the vibrant Laguna Colorada and its resident flamingos.
Evening: Relax at the hot springs of Polques and spend the night in a basic guesthouse.
Day 3: Geysers and Return
Morning: Visit the Sol de Mañana geysers and the dramatic Laguna Verde.
Afternoon: Drive back to Uyuni, stopping at small villages and scenic viewpoints along the way.
Evening: Arrive back in Uyuni town and either fly or take an overnight bus back to your next destination.
📖 09. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is it safe to travel to the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia?
Yes, but it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator. The region is remote, and the weather can be unpredictable. A good guide will ensure your safety.
❓ What should I pack?
Layers of clothing, waterproof shoes, a warm jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, a high-SPF sunscreen, and a power bank for charging your devices.
❓ Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, because of the high altitude. It’s best to spend a day or two in a city like La Paz to acclimatize before heading to Uyuni.
❓ Can I get to the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia on my own?
While possible to rent a 4×4, it’s not recommended. The terrain is vast and unforgiving, and it’s easy to get lost. It’s much safer to go with an experienced tour guide.
❓ When is the best time to see the “mirror effect”?
The “mirror effect” is most visible during the wet season (December to April), when a thin layer of water covers the salt flats.
❓ How long should I spend at the salt flats?
A 3-day/2-night tour is the most popular option, allowing you to see the main highlights, including the surrounding Altiplano. A day trip is also possible if you’re short on time.
❓ What is the main attraction of the salt flats?
The main attraction is the surreal, vast landscape itself, as well as the incredible panoramic photos that can be taken.
❓ Is there Wi-Fi at the salt flats?
No, Wi-Fi is not available at the salt flats. Connectivity is very limited in the region.
❓ What currency is used?
The local currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). It’s best to have enough cash on hand.
📝 10. Final Thoughts + Traveliyo Recommendation
A journey to the Uyuni Salt Flats Bolivia is a travel experience that will stay with you forever. It’s a place where the ordinary world fades away and you’re left with a surreal, almost alien landscape that feels truly unique. The high altitude and rugged conditions can be challenging, but they are a small price to pay for the unforgettable sights and photographs you’ll capture.
Traveliyo Recommendation
For the best experience, we at Traveliyo.com highly recommend booking a 3-day/2-night tour. This allows you to not only explore the incredible salt flats but also to discover the stunning and diverse landscapes of the surrounding Altiplano. It’s the most comprehensive way to appreciate the full beauty of this remote and beautiful corner of the world.
For more historical background, You can read the detailed article on Wikipedia
Did this guide help you? Have you also visited Uyuni Salt Flats? Share your experience in the comments below – it will be very valuable for other travelers.
I had the chance to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats last year, and it’s honestly one of the most surreal places I’ve ever seen. Walking on that endless white surface felt like stepping onto another planet. The mirror effect at sunset was breathtaking and made for the best photos of my entire trip. A practical tip for anyone planning to go: bring warm clothes, because the temperature drops really fast in the evening, and don’t forget sunglasses – the reflection of the sun on the salt is extremely strong. If you’re in Bolivia, this is a must-do experience.
Really appreciate your detailed feedback! The mirror effect is something we always hear travelers rave about, so it’s great to have your confirmation. Hope you get to explore more hidden gems like this soon!