The Salar de Uyuni is one of the most beautiful places in the world and the largest salt flat on earth. Almost 4000 square miles of salt flat cover the Bolivian Altiplano and it is breath-taking! The salt flat which was left behind by evaporated prehistoric lakes and it extends far into the horizon. Depending on the time of year, a thin layer of water sits on the salt flat and creates a far-reaching mirror.
It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the Salar de Uyuni and nothing else on earth compares to it. You have the option of taking tours that range from just one day to several days, this guide helps you plan your trip to Salar de Uyuni.
How long you need to stay
There are tours that last only 1 day and others that last 4 days. The more time you give yourself the more time you will have to explore and witness incredible sights. It is recommended to stay for at least 2 days, but if you only have one day then it is better than skipping the area completely.
When to visit
Salar de Uyuni is a year-round destination that will amaze you no matter the weather. The salt flat changes throughout the year but you will never be disappointed. This article explains the different times of year to visit.
Getting to the Salar de Uyuni
Reaching Salar de Uyuni is done through the gateway town of Uyuni. Uyuni is a well-connected town that sits on the border of the salt flat. Tours to Salar De Uyuni begin in various cities and towns across the region, but if you want to start a tour from Uyuni, our guide on how to reach Salar de Uyuni will help you.
What you will see on the tours
The tours don’t just take you to see the spectacular Salar de Uyuni, you will visit other world-famous sites nearby that are incorporated into the tours.
Laguna Colorada
This beautiful pinky red lagoon covers 60km2 of the Bolivian altiplano and is a must-see on a visit to Bolivia. Watching the James’s Flamingos with the backdrop of the volcano is something you will never forget.
Valley of Las Rocas
Here you will find fascinating rock formations that exist because of the local volcanic activity and wind erosion. The 10-mile-long valley is located close to Salar de Uyuni and is within the Eduardo Avaroa National Andean Wildlife Reserve. The famous Arbol de Piedra (Rock tree) can be found in this valley.
Pucara Ayque
The ruins of Pucara Ayque are situated on the edge of the Thunupa Volcano and it is here that you will see pre-Columbian ruins that are home to mummifications.
Laguna Verde
In the very southwest of Bolivia is the Laguna Verde, close to the border with Chile and on the slopes of the Licancahur volcano. This lake is often a green colour, but it can be turquoise or emerald depending on the conditions. Here you won’t find Flamingos because the colour makes them think its toxic, but even the colour is worth witnessing.
Incahuasi Island (Isla Pescado)
Probably the most famous stop during the tours of Salar de Uyuni. This island is right in the middle of the salt flat, it is covered with cacti and makes a great stop for lunch.
Volcanoes
The area surrounding Salar de Uyuni is littered with volcanoes. The volcanoes make for spectacular pictures against the contrasting salt flat. Tunupa lies onn the edge of the white salt and reaches an altitude of 17,475 feet. At the volcano you can hike around the edge and even explore the cave of the mummies approximately half-way up.
Tours offered by Tangol
Tangol offers five tours to Salar de Uyuni which start from different locations.
Tour one
Starting from Uyuni
What you will see – Valley of Las Rocas, Laguna Colorada and the James’s Flamingos, Arbol de Piedra, Salar de Uyuni, Pucara Ayque
Tour two
Starting from Hito Cajon
What you will see – Laguna Verde, Licancahur Volcano, James’s Flamingos, Colchani, Valle de Las Rocas, Pucara Ayque, Incahausi Island
Tour three
Starting from Villazón
What you will see – Colchani, Incahuasi Island, Pucara de Ayque
Tour four
Starting from Villazón
What you will see – Horseback ride to Quebrada de Palmira, Laguna Colorada, James’s Flamingos, Paso del Diablo, Salar de Uyuni, Incahuasi Island
Tour five
Starting from Uyuni
What you will see – Colchani, Salar de Uyuni, Incahuasi Island, Pucara Ayque