Want to know everything about Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat located in Bolivia? You’re in the right place! In this article, you’ll discover:
Table of Contents
What Is Salar de Uyuni?
Did you know that Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the largest salt flat on Earth?
It really is.
This stunning salt desert is not only the largest but also the highest in the world. It’s located in Potosí, in southwestern Bolivia, covering a vast area of 10,582 km² (4,086 mi²) and sitting at an altitude of 3,650 meters (11,995 feet) above sea level.
That makes Salar de Uyuni one of the most extreme and awe-inspiring places in all of South America—if not the entire planet.
The salt crust stretches to the horizon, covered in polygon-shaped salt patterns that rise from the ground. It’s beautiful to see, magical to experience, and unforgettable to live.
Indescribable… From afar, it even looks like snow. It’s so surreal that you truly need to go there to grasp what it really means.
How Was Salar de Uyuni Formed?
In prehistoric times, the area where the salt flats now lie was covered by at least two large lakes—first Lake Minchin and then Lake Tauca. Over time, due to natural climate changes, the lakes dried up, leaving behind mineral and salt deposits that eventually formed the Salar.
As the water evaporated, all that remained was the salt we see today. It’s spread across ten layers, ranging from one to ten meters thick, with the surface layer—where we walk—being about ten to twelve meters deep.
That’s a lot of salt—especially considering that the salt crust can reach depths of up to 120 meters (394 feet) in some spots.
It’s estimated that Salar de Uyuni contains around 10 billion tons of salt. It’s also believed to be the world’s largest lithium reserve, with approximately 21 million tons of the mineral.
During certain times of the year, nearby lakes overflow, covering the salt with a thin layer of water and transforming the flat into a breathtaking mirror of the sky. Simply stunning.
Salar de Uyuni Is Rich in Minerals
Uyuni plays a major economic role in Bolivia—not only because it attracts around 60,000 tourists each year, but also because roughly 25,000 tons of salt are extracted from it annually.
This incredible landscape is a profitable source of both salt and lithium—used in batteries for laptops, smartphones, and electric vehicles. It’s also vital for local tourism and wildlife.
In addition to local workers who collect these minerals, this surreal scenery is home to the world’s first hotel made entirely of salt, and it welcomes travelers from around the globe every year.
Best Time to Visit
Salar de Uyuni has two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season, from December to April, is when visitors come to witness the famous mirror effect. However, heavy rainfall can occasionally lead to canceled tours or road closures.
During the dry season, from May to November, the temperatures are colder, the surface is firm, and travelers can drive across the vast white landscape—including areas that are inaccessible during the rainy months.
It’s worth noting that peak season runs from June to August, so prices may be higher during that time.
Both seasons offer unique, unforgettable experiences. It’s up to you to decide when is the best time to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
How to Get to Salar de Uyuni
The logistics and duration of your trip to Salar de Uyuni—located between Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina—will depend on where you’re coming from.
Most tours depart from three main locations:
Departing from Uyuni, Bolivia
Uyuni is a small, dusty town and the most popular starting point for tours to the salt flats. The main square, Plaza Arce, is packed with tour agencies. You can book your tour online in advance through agencies in La Paz, or choose one when you arrive in Uyuni. Since the town is located right next to the flats (the name says it all!), many travelers opt for one-day trips.
Departing from La Paz to Uyuni
You can fly from La Paz to Uyuni with Amaszonas or BoA—flights take about one hour and cost around 1,000 BRL. Alternatively, there are overnight buses like Trans Omar and Todo Turismo, which take 10 to 12 hours and cost between 300 and 400 BRL per trip.
Departing from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
If you’re coming from the Atacama Desert, most agencies will drive you to the border and hand off the remainder of the trip to a Bolivian tour operator. Due to the distance, expect this to be a three-day journey.
Departing from Tupiza, Bolivia
Tupiza is the best starting point for travelers coming from Argentina. Tour operators recommend four-day tours from Tupiza, with Salar de Uyuni being the highlight on the final day.
Departing from the United States to Uyuni
First, book an international flight to La Paz, Bolivia (El Alto International Airport). From there, you can take a domestic flight to Joya Andina Airport in Uyuni—the main gateway to the salt flats.
Several airlines operate flights between La Paz and Uyuni, typically lasting about an hour. It’s recommended to book your domestic flight in advance, especially during high season (June–August).
What’s the Best Route?
While Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia’s top attraction, it’s just one part of the vast Altiplano region. Many travelers choose multi-day trips (usually 3+ days) that also include deserts, volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and high-altitude lakes in the south of Bolivia.
You can choose a shared tour—cheaper and more standardized—or a private tour—more expensive but fully customizable.
Shared tours typically include Spanish-speaking guides who double as drivers and cooks. These follow a fixed itinerary, which may not allow flexibility to catch the sunrise or sunset.
Private tours offer more control over your schedule, letting you explore extra stops like volcanoes and caves. They usually come with an English-speaking guide, a chef, and a more comfortable vehicle.
What to Do in Salar de Uyuni
If you only have one day, that’s enough to visit the salt flats and maybe see Incahuasi Island and the salt rivers. You’ll also witness some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen.
But if you take a three-day tour—or have time to explore the region independently—the experience becomes even more fascinating. Here are some of the top attractions you can visit during a multi-day trip through Salar de Uyuni:
Take Photos at the Train Cemetery
The first stop, just five minutes outside Uyuni, is an old train graveyard where locomotives and railcars have been abandoned since the late 1800s.
It might sound boring, but the combination of the rusting trains and the clear blue sky makes for very photogenic moments. Just keep in mind it gets crowded since most tours start here.
Explore the Village of Colchani
Colchani is a small indigenous village where you’ll stop for souvenir shopping and also get a glimpse of how locals process and extract salt. It’s authentic and educational.
Experience Salar de Uyuni Itself
After Colchani comes the highlight of the trip—stepping into the vast, dazzling salt desert. The sheer scale is impossible to comprehend until you’re there under the intense sun, surrounded by white in every direction.
The crispy salt beneath your feet, the endless sky, and the sense of pure isolation make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It’s also the perfect place to play with perspective and take creative, mind-bending photos.
Be sure to check out the Salt Eyes (Ojos de Sal)—openings in the crust where underground rivers bubble up—along with salt mounds (Pilas de Sal) and the world’s first salt hotel.
Visit Incahuasi Island
In the middle of this nothingness lies Incahuasi Island, a sacred place for locals. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the salt flats and see giant cacti that can grow over 10 meters tall.
Watch the Sunset Over Salar de Uyuni
If you’re visiting Salar de Uyuni, don’t miss the sunset. Stay until the end—you won’t regret it. Most guides will schedule a stop for you to watch one of the most breathtaking sunsets on Earth.
Pass Through Salar de Chiguana
While not as famous as Uyuni, the Chiguana Salt Flat is incredibly photogenic with train tracks and volcanoes scattered across the landscape.
It’s also a natural salt deposit in the Potosí region near the Chilean border, fed by streams from the Cordillera and the Uyuni basin. It sits at 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) and covers an area of 415 km².
See the Volcanoes
Volcanoes are an essential part of the desert landscape. On your tour, you’ll enjoy views of several towering peaks, some over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) high.
Marvel at the Lagoons
You’ll encounter several vividly colored lagoons, but two stand out: the red Laguna Colorada and the emerald Laguna Verde, with the Licancabur Volcano looming behind it.
Admire the Flamingos
Thousands of flamingos—Chilean, Andean, and James’—call the high-altitude lagoons and plains home. Around 40,000 of them add stunning splashes of pink and red to the landscape.
Each species has differently sized filtering combs in their beaks, allowing them to feed on different plankton sizes. This unique adaptation lets them coexist peacefully without competing for food.
Don’t forget to bring binoculars to admire these beautiful creatures up close!
Have Fun with the Llamas
Throughout your journey in Salar de Uyuni, you’ll spot countless llamas in all shapes, colors, and sizes. They’re adorable, though they may spit if annoyed—so enjoy them respectfully from a safe distance!
Visit the Sol de Mañana Geysers
You’ll know you’ve reached the geothermal area by the thin air and strong sulfur smell. Steam rises constantly from the vents, creating a dramatic scene, especially at sunrise.
Sol de Mañana spans about 10 km² at 4,850 meters (15,912 feet) elevation. This surreal landscape is filled with geysers, boiling mud pots, and volcanic activity.
The area is also being studied for its geothermal energy potential, which could provide clean, renewable power to communities in Bolivia.
Explore the Cactus Island
Yes, a cactus-covered island in the middle of a salt flat is real!
Incahuasi Island is home to massive cacti that can reach over 10 meters (32 feet) tall. It’s what remains of the top of an ancient volcano that was submerged for centuries.
Where to Stay in Salar de Uyuni
There are several accommodation options in Salar de Uyuni, ranging from camping to luxury hotels.
Hostels
Hostel Piedra Blanca
This is one of the highest-rated hostels on Booking.com—cleanliness and comfort are its standout features. However, it’s located a bit far from the bus terminal—about one kilometer—and around four blocks from the main square. On the upside, it’s next to the train station.
Hostel Arco Iris
This budget-friendly hostel is praised for its location and amenities. It sits right on Uyuni’s main square and offers only private rooms. Don’t expect luxury, though—the accommodations are very simple and modest.
Salt Hotels
One of the most unique ways to experience Salar de Uyuni is by staying in a salt hotel—structures made almost entirely of salt. Here are some of the best:
Kachi Lodge, at the base of Tunupa Volcano
This salt hotel looks like a space station—complete with telescopes! It offers trekking to the volcano’s crater, hikes, and even downhill biking. Newly opened, it’s already worth the trip all by itself.
Palacio de Sal
The world’s first hotel made entirely of salt. Built in harmony with nature, it offers a variety of regional excursions. If you want an unforgettable stay in Salar de Uyuni, this is it. A true oasis in the desert.
Hotel de Sal Luna Salada
This beautiful hotel faces the salt flats, offering unforgettable sunsets. Also built with salt, it’s warm, cozy, and very comfortable. Rooms are spacious, with large, fluffy beds and excellent heating.
Casa de Sal
Located in central Uyuni, Casa de Sal has great reviews. It’s a good choice if you want to stay in the city’s busiest area while still enjoying the novelty of sleeping in a salt hotel. The breakfast is generous, featuring fruits, coffee, tea, orange juice, bread, cheese, ham, and eggs or omelets.
Essential Tips for Your Trip to Salar de Uyuni
#1 Tip
At 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, altitude sickness is a real risk if you’re not properly acclimated. Symptoms may include nausea, headaches, and insomnia. Talk to your doctor before traveling about medication or natural remedies to help prevent it.
#2 Tip
Don’t head straight to the salt flats. Give yourself a few days to adjust to the altitude. Bring everything you might need—medicine, coca leaves, herbal teas. Be prepared.
#3 Tip
To enter Bolivia, U.S. citizens need a tourist visa and proof of yellow fever vaccination. Check the latest requirements with the U.S. Department of State or the Bolivian consulate before your trip.
#4 Tip
Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Bolivia. You may also need to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay.
#5 Tip
There’s not much to see in Uyuni town itself, so plan to stay no more than one day—or even just a few hours before your tour.
#6 Tip
Don’t skip the train cemetery just outside of Uyuni. It’s a hauntingly beautiful site and definitely worth the stop.
#7 Tip
Choose your tour company carefully. There are many options, but not all are reliable. Do your research, compare prices, read reviews, and go with a reputable operator.
#8 Tip
Temperatures at Salar de Uyuni can drop well below freezing, and rarely rise above 68°F (20°C). Dress in layers—at least three—and be ready for cold weather.
#9 Tip
When it’s sunny, the salt reflects light intensely. Bring good sunglasses to protect your eyes and something to cover your head. Even if it’s not hot, the sun can burn, and there’s virtually no shade.
#10 Tip
Always carry hygiene essentials and snacks. There are very few shops or services in the salt flats. If you don’t bring your own food, you’ll have to rely entirely on your tour meals—which might not be enough when hunger hits. A protein bar or banana between meals can be a lifesaver.
#11 Tip
Some accommodations charge a small fee for hot showers. Bring cash just in case.
#12 Tip
The local currency is the Bolivian boliviano. Be sure to exchange money before starting your tour, as there are no ATMs or banks in the salt flats.
#13 Tip
Plan your route carefully. Know your stops and always allow extra time for the unexpected.
#14 Tip
Things might not go perfectly—and that’s okay. Set your expectations accordingly. To experience Salar de Uyuni, you’ll need an adventurous spirit and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, especially if you choose a budget tour.
#15 Tip
If you have specific questions about entry requirements or documentation, consult the U.S. State Department or the nearest Bolivian consulate for official guidance.
What People Say About Salar de Uyuni
“You know how sometimes a place feels familiar because it reminds you of somewhere you’ve already been? That won’t happen at Salar de Uyuni. There’s simply nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Uyuni is unique and unforgettable, with an overwhelming silence you can feel.”
“To this day, I can’t find words that truly capture what it’s like to stand in the endless white of Salar de Uyuni.”
“At the same time, I felt tiny and massive. I came back a different person after this mind-blowing experience in a salt desert.”
“Walking in the middle of nowhere. The white expanse beneath my feet was interrupted only by the blue sky, stretching into an endless horizon. A seagull flew overhead, and I realized I was walking on a thin layer of water that reflected everything around me. It was like walking on clouds.”
“Salar de Uyuni is one of those places every serious traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. It’s definitely one of the pins you should mark on your world map at home.”
Get to Know Bolivia
Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America, bordered by Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay to the southeast, Argentina to the south, Chile to the southwest and west, and Peru to the northwest.
Its constitutional capital is the historic city of Sucre, where the Supreme Court is located. However, the administrative capital is La Paz, home to the country’s executive and legislative branches.
Bolivia is traditionally considered a highland country. While only one-third of its territory lies in the Andes, most of its major cities are found there. For centuries, this region has attracted the bulk of the nation’s investment in mining, trade, and business.
The western highlands of Bolivia, one of the highest inhabited regions in the world, are an economic and political hub. The country is divided by two major mountain ranges. Along the western border with Chile lies the Western Cordillera, home to many active volcanoes and the breathtaking Salar de Uyuni. This range includes Bolivia’s highest peak, Mount Sajama, which stands at 6,542 meters (21,463 feet).
To the east lies the Eastern Cordillera, whose most spectacular section near La Paz is known as the Cordillera Real. This is also one of the most visited regions by tourists.
If you’re planning a trip to Salar de Uyuni, consider adding the mountain ranges to your itinerary as well. And while you’re in Bolivia, here are some other incredible experiences to consider:
Go Trekking in the Bolivian Altiplano
Some of Bolivia’s best trekking routes include: El Choro Trek (51 km), Condoriri Trek (47 km), Illampu Circuit (85 km), and the Trans-Cordillera Real (150 km). For shorter hikes, Huayna Potosí (11 km) and Laguna Arkhata (8 km) are beautiful options.
Just like in Salar de Uyuni, many of these hikes are at elevations above 4,000 meters (13,100 feet), so give yourself time to acclimate before attempting them.
Bike Down the Death Road
From La Paz, you can take a thrilling one-day biking tour on one of the world’s most dangerous roads. Choose a reputable guide for a safe ride—safety first! If you follow the rules and take precautions, you’ll have an unforgettable story to tell.
Visit the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna)
Less well-known than the Death Road but equally amazing, Valle de la Luna is a surreal landscape of eroded sandstone spires and rock formations just 10 km from central La Paz. There are two main trails, both offering fantastic views and photo opportunities.
Ride the Cable Cars in La Paz
Known as “Mi Teleférico,” this urban gondola system is La Paz’s version of a subway—perfect for a hilly, high-altitude city. It’s easy to use, with color-coded lines just like a metro system. The views are stunning, and the system runs from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Fares are paid using a rechargeable card available at most stations.
Go Underground in Potosí
Potosí is a city in southern Bolivia famous for its silver mining history. Located over 4,000 meters (13,100 feet) above sea level, it’s one of the world’s highest cities. One of the most unique activities here is a half-day tour of a working mine, where you can see firsthand what life is like for the miners.
Explore Historic Sucre
Sucre, one of Bolivia’s capitals, is the opposite of La Paz in both altitude and atmosphere. It’s lower in elevation, more temperate, and filled with colonial architecture, cultural sites, and museums.
This UNESCO World Heritage city dates back to the 16th century and is known for its elegant buildings, churches, parks, cemeteries, and palaces. It’s beautiful, magical, and impossible to describe with words alone.
Watch Cholita Wrestling
Cholita Wrestling is one of the most entertaining and unique events in La Paz. Featuring women in traditional outfits, these shows blend acrobatics, colorful costumes, and a lively, beer-fueled crowd.
Held most Sundays at the Multifunctional Center in El Alto, you can either join a tour or buy tickets on your own and enjoy the spectacle. Expect lots of crowd participation! What began as a protest against domestic violence has become one of South America’s most iconic tourist experiences.
Want to learn even more about the country that’s home to Salar de Uyuni?
Read more here: Things to Do in Bolivia
Curiosities About Bolivia
In addition to Sucre, which we mentioned earlier, Bolivia is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are:
- The City of Potosí — the first to receive the title, in 1987.
- In the 1990s, three more were added: the Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos, the Historic City of Sucre, and the Fort of Samaipata.
- In the 2000s, the Spiritual and Political Center of the Tiwanaku Culture and Noel Kempff Mercado National Park were recognized.
- In 2014, two more were included: Qhapaq Ñan (Andean Road System) and the Inca Trails.
If you think Salar de Uyuni deserves to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site too, let us know in the comments below!
Bolivian Cuisine
One thing’s for sure—you won’t go hungry in Bolivia.
Bolivian cuisine is full of unique flavors, thanks to the variety of spices used and the high quality of ingredients, especially potatoes and meat.
Did you know Bolivia cultivates over 200 varieties of potatoes? The richness of traditional dishes is so vast we can’t list them all here—but here are some highlights you should definitely try during your trip:
Anticuchos
One of the most traditional Bolivian street foods. Anticuchos are skewered beef heart (or other meats) grilled and served with potatoes and a spicy peanut sauce. It’s affordable, delicious, and best eaten with your hands!
Noodle Chili
This traditional dish features veal tongue with a spicy kick. It’s usually served with dehydrated potatoes (chuño), cilantro, onions, and tomato sauce.
Silpancho
If you love breaded meat, you’ll enjoy Silpancho. It’s a thin beef cutlet served with fried eggs, potatoes, white rice, shredded carrots, and beet salad—a hearty and flavorful option.
Yuca Sonso
One of Bolivia’s simplest and most distinct dishes. Made from mashed cassava mixed with cheese, then grilled for a smoky, savory flavor.
Humintas
Commonly served for breakfast or as a snack, humintas are made from sweet grated corn mixed with cinnamon, sugar, raisins, and sometimes cheese. They’re wrapped in corn husks and either steamed or grilled.
Jak’a Lawa
A thick, rich soup made with ground corn, potatoes, and pork skin. Comforting and packed with flavor.
Pique Macho
Perfect for meat lovers—Pique Macho consists of chopped beef, sausage, fries, and tomatoes. It’s topped with locotos, a spicy chili pepper that adds serious heat.
Salteñas
Bolivia’s take on empanadas. Salteñas are baked pastry pockets filled with beef or chicken, potatoes, peas, olives, and onions. Juicy and flavorful, they’re a must-try!
Masaco
Made from mashed green plantains or cassava mixed with pork chicharrón (crispy fried pork). Hearty and satisfying.
Sounds delicious, right? Which of these dishes would you try first?
Food in Salar de Uyuni
As mentioned earlier, meals in Salar de Uyuni largely depend on what your tour company provides. Most include simple breakfast options like bread, cake, fruit, coffee, and tea. Lunch and dinner typically consist of rice, potatoes, a protein (usually chicken or beef), and a basic salad. It’s enough to keep you going.
However, it’s highly recommended to bring your own snacks. Since there are virtually no stores or services in the salt flats, having a granola bar or banana in your bag could save you from unexpected hunger—and help you enjoy your tour without interruptions.
To Warm You Up
Musician FKJ recorded a live session right in the middle of the salt desert! The video is stunning, immersive, and meditative. Hit play and start imagining what your own experience in this vast white-and-blue world will be like.
So, what did you think of Salar de Uyuni? Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the world’s largest salt flat?
Let us know in the comments if you’ve been there—or plan to go! Your story might inspire someone else to visit this incredible place.