Salar de Uyuni Tour from La Paz | 2 Days / 1 Night with Magical Sunset
Description
The Salar de Uyuni tour from La Paz is the perfect option for those who want to discover the world’s largest salt flat, departing directly from the Bolivian capital. This 2-day, 1-night experience includes overnight transportation by tourist bus, a comprehensive tour of the Salar de Uyuni in a 4×4 vehicle, visits to all the iconic landmarks such as the train cemetery, Incahuasi Island, and the magical sunset over the salt flats, before returning to Uyuni.
Ideal for travelers with limited time who are looking for a complete, affordable, and hassle-free experience.
Itinerary
Itinerary – Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from La Paz
Day 1: La Paz – Uyuni (Overnight Trip)
The adventure begins at the La Paz bus terminal, located on Av. Perú. You should arrive around 7:30 p.m. to board the tourist bus to Uyuni, which departs at 8:00 p.m. The overnight trip is comfortable and safe, lasting approximately 9 hours. Arrival in Uyuni is scheduled for 5:00 a.m. the following day.
Day 2: Uyuni Salt Flats Tour – Full Day
Upon arrival at the Uyuni bus terminal, our team will greet you and take you to the offices for a brief orientation about the tour.
At 10:30 a.m. The excursion begins in 4×4 vehicles (max. 6 passengers per vehicle), visiting the following places:
- Train Cemetery: a collection of old locomotives and train cars abandoned in the desert.
- Colchani Village: a community dedicated to the artisanal processing of salt, ideal for purchasing unique souvenirs.
- Eyes of the Salt Flats: natural wells where water springs from the salt flat’s subsoil.
- Dakar Monument, Stairway to Heaven, and Flag Pillar: iconic and highly photogenic spots.
- Salt Hotel (museum): an iconic structure built entirely from salt blocks.
- Incahuasi Island: a rocky elevation with giant cacti and 360° viewpoints overlooking the salt flats.
After visiting these sites, we’ll enjoy lunch in the middle of the salt flats. Later, you’ll have free time on the white plain to take perspective photos and capture the magic of the place.
The experience concludes with a breathtaking sunset over the Salar de Uyuni, one of the most exciting moments of the trip. The tour ends around 7:00 PM, with a return to the town of Uyuni.
Includes
What’s Included in the Tour?
Overnight Tourist Bus La Paz – Uyuni
Travel comfortably from La Paz on an overnight tourist bus equipped with reclining seats, heating, and blankets. This service allows you to arrive in Uyuni at dawn, ready to start the tour without wasting any time.
Pick-up at the Uyuni Bus Terminal
Upon arrival in Uyuni, our staff will be waiting for you at the bus terminal to welcome you and transfer you to the tour’s starting point.
Transportation in a 4×4 Vehicle (max. 6 people)
Enjoy a trip in an all-terrain vehicle, ideal for exploring the landscapes of the salt flats and their surroundings. Small groups (maximum six passengers) guarantee comfort and a more personalized experience.
Spanish-Speaking Driver-Guide
Accompanied by a specialized local guide, who is also an experienced driver. They will share information about the history, geology, and culture of the region, enriching each stop along the way.
Lunch in the middle of the salt flats
Enjoy a unique experience savoring a typical Bolivian lunch surrounded by the endless white landscape of the Salar de Uyuni. During the rainy season, the famous mirror effect makes lunch an unforgettable moment.
Visit to the mentioned attractions
Includes all scheduled stops and guided tours, such as the Train Cemetery, the town of Colchani, the salt vents, the Salt Hotel (exterior), and Incahuasi Island, among others.
First aid kit
All vehicles are equipped with a basic first aid kit, prepared for minor emergencies and to ensure the safety of travelers.
Sunset viewing on the salt flats
End the tour with an incomparable natural spectacle: the sunset over the Salar de Uyuni, where the colors of the sky are reflected on the salt surface, creating a magical atmosphere, perfect for photographs and memorable moments.
Not Included
What’s not included?
Entrance to Incahuasi Island
The entrance fee to this island, located in the heart of the salt flats and famous for its giant cacti and natural viewpoints, is not included. Payment is made directly on site and is cash only.
English-speaking guide (available at an additional cost)
The standard service is offered in Spanish. If you would like a guide who speaks English or another language, you can request it in advance at an additional cost, subject to availability.
Breakfast and dinner
The tour includes a typical lunch, but does not include breakfast or dinner. You can bring snacks or arrange additional meals before or after the tour.
Personal travel insurance
Medical and travel insurance are not included. It is recommended to purchase an international policy that covers medical emergencies and unforeseen events during your stay in Bolivia.
Tips for guide or driver
These are not included in the tour price. Tips are optional, but are appreciated as a token of gratitude for the attention and service provided.
Transfers from hotels outside the town of Uyuni
The pick-up service applies only to accommodations located within the center of Uyuni. If you are staying outside the urban area, a transfer can be arranged for an additional fee.
Recommendations
Recommendations
Wear thermal clothing: Temperatures on the Bolivian Altiplano can be very cold, especially during the early morning and at nightfall. It is recommended to dress in layers, with thermal clothing, a windproof jacket, and accessories such as gloves, a scarf, and a hat.
Protect your skin and eyes: The sun’s reflection on the salt flats can be very intense. Wear sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen, and lip balm to avoid sunburn and dryness.
Wear comfortable, waterproof footwear: During the rainy season (January to March), the salt flats are partially covered in water, creating the famous mirror effect. For this time of year, wear waterproof boots or shoes that will allow you to walk safely without getting wet.
Bring a camera or cell phone with a good battery: The Salar de Uyuni is one of the most photogenic places in the world. Make sure you bring your camera or cell phone fully charged and, if possible, a portable battery so you don’t miss any shots.
Small backpack with essentials: Bring a lightweight backpack with your personal items: water, snacks, an extra layer of clothing, and any basic items you might need during the tour.
Cash in Bolivian Bolivianos: Some places along the route, such as Incahuasi Island or local shops, do not accept cards. It is important to carry enough cash for entrance fees, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
Valid passport or ID: Always carry a valid ID with you, as it may be requested at checkpoints or for registration upon entering the reserve.
During the rainy season (January – March): It is recommended to bring rain gear (raincoats, plastic bags, or equipment covers) and a change of clothes, as you may get wet during hikes or when getting back in the vehicle.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at the La Paz bus terminal and ends in Uyuni after the tour (around 7:00 PM on the second day).
Can I book this tour for a single traveler?
Yes, this tour has daily departures with a minimum of two people, but you can join a group if you are traveling alone.
Can I arrange a flight instead of a bus?
Yes, you can arrange to pick up the tour from Uyuni Airport for an additional fee. You can also take a return flight after the tour.
How do I make a reservation?
Your reservation is confirmed with a 20% deposit of the total amount. The remaining balance is paid in Uyuni before the tour begins. Once you have made the deposit, please send the payment receipt, passport photos, tour date, and the name of your hotel or pick-up point to southamericaexploor@gmail.com.
What is the best time to visit the salt flats?
The rainy season (January to March) creates the famous mirror effect. During the dry season (April to October), the salt flats display their classic white surface, ideal for perspective photography.