5-Day Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from La Paz

Do you dream of taking an incredible 5-day journey from La Paz to the Uyuni Salt Flats? Then this comprehensive guide is just the thing you need! Read on to find out about the amazing sights and activities you can expect to experience on the way, local tips and all the important information you need to make the most of your time in Potosí.

So, What Is the Uyuni Salt Flats?

The Uyuni Salt Flats are an incredible natural phenomenon located in south-west Bolivia. Ascending almost 11,000 feet over the course of a twelve mile stretch, these flat plains of white, dry salt are a sight to behold. Covering almost 1000sq miles, it’s the largest salt flats on the planet and a must visit destination for anyone in the region!

The 5-Day Tour from La Paz from GetYourGuide

For those based in La Paz, there is no better way to visit this unique region than a 5-day tour from GetYourGuide. This spectacular tour allows you to fully explore all the major sites of the region including the stunning laguna blanca, the impressive colored and green lagoons,incahuasi island, train graveyard and much more. All of this within a 5-day experience, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to experience the area.

Day One – La Paz to Uyuni

The tour departs from La Paz early in the morning. You will be picked up and taken on a private bus journey to Uyuni (an approximately seven hour journey). On arrival, you will spend the night in Uyuni.

Day Two – Uyuni Salt Flats and Salvador Dali Desert

On day two you will travel out to the Uyuni salt flats, which are located around 50km away. Here you will have plenty of time to explore this incredible site by foot and take lots of photos to remember it by! After lunch, you will travel across the surreal Salvador Dali Desert and make camp for the night.

Day Three – Laguna Verde and Laguna Colorada

Day three will begin with an early morning start as you head out to the beautiful Laguna Verde and Laguna Colorada. Laguna Verde is an astonishing turquoise-green body of water that is surrounded by jagged landscapes and interesting flora. Then, you will move on to Laguna Colorada which is a stunning red lake that is home to thousands of flamingos and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. After lunch here, you will move onto the village of Jirira where you’ll spend the night in wet and warm Valles de Rocas.

Day Four – Hotel de Sal Y Chalet de Shunka Wasi

Day four begins with a visit Inchuasi Island which is an ancient island formed entirely of fossils and petrified coral. From there you’ll head to hotel de sal,which is a hotel made entirely out of salt! It’s a fascinating place that must be seen to be believed. After lunch, you will then make your way to Chalet de Shunka Wasi where you can observe flamingos and foxes in their natural habitat before spending another night camping out in the wilderness.

Day Five – Return to Cusco

On day five you will travel back across the salt flats and make your final stop at the impressive Train Cemetery before returning to La Paz via private bus. The tour will conclude in La Paz around 18:00-19:00pm.

Local Tips

When booking through GetYourGuide, it can be helpful to know some local tips:

• It can be cold on the Bolivian highlands so bring warm clothes and take care when traveling in colder weather.
• Waterproof jackets and coats are essential.
• Drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco is considered frowned upon by some locals.
• It’s a good idea to bring snacks and drinks with you as food can be limited in some areas.
• Always be respectful towards locals.

Conclusion

All in all, this 5-day tour from La Paz is an incredible way to explore the awe-inspiring Uyuni Salt Flats in Potosí and get a real feel for the area! With stops at iconic sites like Incahuasi Island, the Salvador Dali Desert and Laguna Verde, there’s plenty of things to see and do on the way. For an unforgettable journey, book your trip through GetYourGuide now, along with all the other details outlined above! Book your 5 day Uyuni Salt Flats Tour Now!

Insider’s Guide to La Paz: Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you want to explore La Paz beyond the usual tourist spots and experience the city like a local, this guide is for you. From hidden gems to local cuisine, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions – this guide will help you discover the heart and soul of La Paz.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems of La Paz

La Paz is known for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture, but there are also hidden gems that only locals know about. One such gem is El Alto Market, the largest and most colorful market in Bolivia. Here you can find authentic Bolivian handicrafts, clothing, and food stalls that offer a unique glimpse into the daily life of the locals.

If you’re a fan of street art, don’t miss out on the amazing murals throughout the city. The most famous is the Cable Car Murals, a collection of more than 50 murals that reflect the diversity and culture of Bolivia. Each mural is a work of art and tells a different story.

For a truly unique experience, visit the Muela del Diablo, or “Devil’s Molar,” a natural park just outside the city. This 200-meter-tall rock formation offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for hiking and rock climbing.

Dining Spots: Taste the Flavors of La Paz

La Paz has a rich culinary heritage, influenced by indigenous, European, and Asian cultures. One must-try dish is Salteñas, Bolivia’s version of empanadas. These savory pastries are filled with spiced meat, potatoes, and vegetables and are perfect for a quick snack or lunch.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Chairo, a hearty soup made with beef, potatoes, and vegetables, seasoned with traditional Andean herbs. For dessert, indulge in the Tawa Tawa, a sweet cake made from caramelized milk and sugar.

La Paz has many great dining spots, but one restaurant that stands out is Gustu. This fine dining restaurant is run by one of the world’s best chefs, Claus Meyer, and serves modern Bolivian cuisine using only locally sourced ingredients.

Cultural Experiences: Discover the Soul of La Paz

La Paz is a city steeped in tradition and culture. One way to experience this is to attend the Fiesta del Gran Poder, the city’s largest and most colorful festival. This event takes place every May and features traditional dances, music, and costumes.

Another way to immerse yourself in the local culture is to visit the Museum of Ethnography and Folklore. This museum showcases Bolivia’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional costumes, accessories, and musical instruments.

For a unique cultural experience, head to the Witches’ Market, where you can find traditional medicines, herbs, and potions used by Bolivian shamans for centuries.

Local History: Fascinating Stories of La Paz

La Paz has a long and fascinating history, and there are many stories and legends associated with the city. One such story is that of the building known as “La Casa del Diablo,” or the Devil’s House. This centuries-old mansion was believed to be cursed, and many people who lived there met untimely deaths.

Another intriguing story is that of the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz. Legend has it that the cathedral was built on the ruins of an Inca temple and that the statue of the Virgin Mary in the church is actually an Inca goddess.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re looking for something truly unique and off the beaten path, La Paz has plenty to offer. One such experience is the Chacaltaya Mountain, the highest ski resort in the world, which is now closed due to climate change. However, you can still hike up the mountain and enjoy the stunning views.

For adrenaline junkies, the Death Road is a must-visit. This narrow and winding mountain road was once considered the most dangerous road in the world, but now it’s a popular spot for mountain biking.

Finally, for a truly unforgettable experience, visit the Valle de la Luna, or Moon Valley. This otherworldly landscape is full of bizarre rock formations and canyons that look like something out of a science fiction movie.

Conclusion:

La Paz is a city full of hidden gems, unique experiences, and fascinating history. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine, cultural immersion, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, La Paz has something for everyone. Hopefully, this guide has given you a glimpse into the heart and soul of this amazing city and inspired you to explore it further.