1-Day Uyuni Salt Flats Tour
Description
Discover the best of the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Flats in a single day. This is the world’s largest salt desert and one of South America’s most stunning destinations. This tour is designed especially for those with limited time in Uyuni who want to experience its main natural and cultural wonders, such as the Train Cemetery, Colchani, the Ojos del Salar (Eyes of the Salt Flats), the famous Salt Hotel, Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti, and an unforgettable sunset over the vast white expanse. A perfect excursion for travelers, families, and photography enthusiasts.
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
1-Day Uyuni Salt Flats Tour – From Uyuni
The experience begins with pick-up from your hotel in Uyuni, or from the bus terminal or airport if you arrive on the same day as the tour.
Our first stop will be the Train Cemetery, a historic site where old, rusted locomotives tell the story of Bolivia’s mining boom. It’s an ideal spot for taking artistic photos among the rails and abandoned structures.
Next, we continue to the town of Colchani, the gateway to the salt flats, where we’ll observe the traditional salt extraction process and see typical handicrafts made with salt and alpaca textiles. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs directly from local artisans.
We then enter the majestic Salar de Uyuni, an endless white expanse of salt that stretches to the horizon. We’ll visit the salt mounds, the famous Ojos del Salar (underground springs), the Dakar Monument, and the Stairway to Heaven, an artistic structure perfect for creative photographs. We’ll also pass by the famous Salt Hotel (now a museum) and the Forest of Flags, a colorful corner where emblems from all over the world wave.
Here we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch with panoramic views of the salt flats, surrounded by a surreal landscape.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Incahuasi Island, an oasis in the middle of the salt flats filled with giant cacti, some over a thousand years old. From the top, you’ll have a breathtaking 360° view of the salt flats. This island is also an excellent spot for taking unique perspective photos.
Finally, we’ll go to a strategic viewpoint to watch the magical sunset over the Salar de Uyuni, where the sky is painted with intense colors reflected on the white expanse. Then we’ll return to the town of Uyuni, concluding an unforgettable day.
Includes
Includes
Pick-up from your hotel, bus terminal, or airport in Uyuni
Our team will meet you promptly at your accommodation, the bus terminal, or directly at Uyuni Airport, so you can begin your experience worry-free.
Tourist transportation in a 4×4 vehicle (max. 6 passengers)
Travel comfortably in an all-terrain jeep, ideal for exploring the vast landscapes of the salt flats and the routes of the Altiplano. The vehicles are equipped with heating, a radio, and luggage space, guaranteeing a safe and enjoyable journey.
Professional driver-guide in Spanish
Accompanied by a local guide with extensive experience who will share insights into the history, geology, and culture of the Salar de Uyuni, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience.
Lunch in the heart of the Salar de Uyuni
Enjoy a typical lunch with panoramic views of the endless white desert. During the rainy season, you can experience the unique “mirror effect” while enjoying your meal surrounded by reflections and perfect horizons.
First Aid Kit
The vehicle is equipped with a basic kit for minor emergencies, ensuring your well-being throughout the tour.
Personalized Assistance
During the trip, our staff is always ready to help you with anything you need, taking care of every detail to make your experience unforgettable.
Not Included
Not Included
Entrance to Incahuasi Island
Access to this impressive natural site, famous for its giant cacti and panoramic views of the salt flats, has an additional cost of approximately 30 Bolivianos, payable directly at the entrance.
Transportation from La Paz (optional)
The tour does not include transportation from the city of La Paz to Uyuni. However, additional service can be arranged by overnight bus or flight, according to your preferences and schedules.
Guide in English or other languages
The standard service is offered in Spanish. If you would like a guide in English, French, Portuguese, or another language, this can be requested at an additional cost and with prior reservation.
Buses or flights to/from Uyuni
Ground or air transportation tickets from other cities are not included in the base package.
Tips (optional)
Tips for the guide, driver, or service staff are not included and are at the traveler’s discretion as a gesture of appreciation.
Additional beverages
The tour does not include soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or extra bottled water. It is recommended to bring your own reusable water bottle or purchase beverages at the stops along the way.
Recommendations
Recommendations
Wear warm clothing: Although the day may start sunny, temperatures on the high plateau change rapidly and can drop considerably at sunset. It is recommended to wear layers (fleece, windbreaker, or thermal jacket) to adapt to the changing weather.
Protect your skin and eyes: The sun’s reflection on the white surface of the salt flats is very intense. Use sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, and a hat or cap to avoid sunburn and glare.
Bring water and extra snacks: Although lunch is included, the tour is long, and the dry climate can cause dehydration. Bring your own water bottle and some light snacks such as energy bars, fruit, or nuts.
Wear comfortable, waterproof footwear: During the rainy season (December to March), the salt flats are partially covered in water, creating the famous “mirror effect.” Waterproof shoes or boots are recommended, as the ground can be wet or slippery.
Camera or cell phone with a good camera: The Salar de Uyuni is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Be sure to bring charged batteries or a power bank, as the opportunities to capture creative images and unique perspectives are endless.
Cash (Bolivianos): Not all stops accept cards, so it’s necessary to bring cash to pay for entrance fees, public restrooms, or to buy local souvenirs.
During the rainy season (December to March): Bring waterproof clothing and a change of clothes, as you may get wet during stops or while walking on the flooded surface of the salt flats.
Respect the natural environment: Do not leave trash and avoid extracting salt or damaging natural formations. The Salar de Uyuni is a fragile ecosystem and natural heritage site that deserves respect and conservation.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the town of Uyuni. We can pick you up at your hotel, the bus terminal, or the airport (with prior arrangement).
Can I join if I arrive by bus or plane on the same day?
Yes, just send us the bus name or flight number in advance so we can coordinate a timely pickup.
Can the tour be done year-round?
Yes. The Salar de Uyuni can be visited year-round. During the dry season (April–November), you’ll see the salt hexagons. During the rainy season (December–March), the mirror effect is created, perfect for photography.
What kind of photos can I take?
From perspective and panoramic shots to creative selfies on Incahuasi Island and captures of the most surreal sunset in South America.
Is it suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for children and seniors. We recommend bringing snacks and sunscreen for the little ones.