How to Plan Your Guided 3-Day Tour to the Uyuni Salt Flats & Avaroa National Park

If you are planning a trip to Bolivia, a visit to the Uyuni Salt Flats and Avaroa National Park is an absolute must. This magical landscape is a photographer’s paradise and will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders. To make the most out of your trip, you should consider booking a guided 3-day tour. In this guide, we will give you all the information you need to plan your guided tour to the Uyuni Salt Flats and Avaroa National Park.

Experience

This guided 3-day tour includes an English-speaking guide, meals, and hotel accommodations. You will spend two nights in comfortable hotels with private bathrooms. The tour takes you to the most popular destinations in the area, including the Uyuni Salt Flats and Avaroa National Park. The tour also takes you to lesser-known attractions that are equally breathtaking.

Highlights

The Uyuni Salt Flats and Avaroa National Park are the main highlights of this 3-day tour. You will witness the otherworldly beauty of the salt flats, the stunning lakes, and the magnificent fauna of the Avaroa National Park. As you explore, you will also visit the Train Cemetery, Incahuasi Island, Chiguana Salt Flat, Stone Valley and Galaxia Caves, all of which are incredible natural wonders.

Full Description

Day 1

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Uyuni at 10:30 am. You will then head to the Train Cemetery, where you will see the rusted remains of trains from the 18th and early 20th centuries. This stop is perfect for taking artistic photos. Afterward, you will visit Colchani Village to learn about salt production and take a short walk through the artisanal market and museum. The next stop is the Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats, where you will see an expanse of salty terrain, covering over 12,000 square kilometers, with photogenic spots like Eyes of Salt, Dakar monument, Salt Hotel Museum (built entirely of salt blocks), Flags of the world and the largest island in the lake, Incahuasi Island. There, you will get a view of the giant cactus and spectacular panoramic views from the summit of the hills nearby. You watch the sunset before driving to the hotel in Ajencha.

Day 2

You will start the day early to have breakfast before departing for the Avaroa National Park. The park is home to picturesque volcanoes, hot springs, and rock formations. You will see incredible wildlife, such as flamingos, llamas, and vicunas in their natural habitat in the park’s lagoons. You will also visit Laguna Colorada, a shallow salt lake that changes colors throughout the day, and Sol de Mañana geyser. In the afternoon, there will be a drive to a basic hostel near the Chiguana salt that is surrounded by immense beauty.

Day 3

The third day includes a visit to the Stone Valley and the Galaxia Caves. The Stone Valley, also called Valle de Rocas, has a peculiar beauty that results from wind erosion. The rocks there are native to the mountains and have been shaped into unique forms by the wind. Afterward, the tour concludes with a stop at the Red Lagoon, with ample time to enjoy the shimmering waters before returning to Uyuni town in the late evening.

Booking Your Tour

To book the tour, visit the tour page on GetYourGuide, where you can select your desired dates and choose the number of people. The tour requires a minimum of two people and costs around $250 USD per person. You can pay online with any major credit card or PayPal, and you will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your trip, including the pickup time and location.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting the Uyuni Salt Flats and Avaroa National Park is a bucket-list item for most travelers. And booking the guided 3-day tour is the best way to experience the area because it includes an English-speaking guide, meals, and hotel accommodations. So, plan ahead with our guide to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Uyuni, Bolivia

Uyuni is a charming Bolivian city that’s famous for its salt flats and unique landscapes; every year, millions of tourists visit it to marvel at its natural beauty. If you’re planning to explore this picturesque city, there’s a lot you need to know. This post will answer some of the most frequently asked questions asked by visitors.

1. What is Uyuni?

Uyuni is a small city located in southwest Bolivia, near the Chilean border. The town is situated on the edge of the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, and is known for its stunning salt flats, unique landscapes, and proximity to the Andes Mountain range.

2. What is the best time to visit Uyuni?

The best time to visit Uyuni is during the dry season, which runs from May to November. During the dry season, the sky is clear, and the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. In contrast, the wet season, which runs from December to April, can be a little challenging to explore the area as the salt flats are often covered in water.

3. What are the top attractions in Uyuni?

The top attractions in Uyuni include:

• Salar de Uyuni
• Train Cemetery
• Laguna Colorada
• Laguna Verde
• Valle de Rocas
• San Cristobal Church
• Andes Mountains

4. What activities can you do in Uyuni?

There are plenty of exciting activities to do in Uyuni. Here are some of the best ones:

• Explore the salt flats on a 4×4 tour
• Visit the Train Cemetery
• Watch the sunrise over Salar de Uyuni
• Take a dip in the natural hot springs
• Hike around the Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde
• Enjoy a night of stargazing in the desert
• Take a cycling tour around the city
• Go bird watching

5. What is the Train Cemetery?

The Train Cemetery is a striking site that’s created a lot of buzz over the year. Located just outside of Uyuni, this open-air museum is composed of abandoned trains that were once used to transport minerals from the Andes Mountains. These trains form one of the most unusual and picturesque sites in Uyuni; it’s often explored as part of half-day salt flat tours.

6. What is Salar de Uyuni?

Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, spanning over 12,000 square kilometers. The salt flat is created by a prehistoric lake that dried up thousands of years ago. The salt crust on the surface of the flat is so dense that trucks can drive on it. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and undoubtedly one of Uyuni’s most popular attractions.

7. Can you drive on Salar de Uyuni?

Yes, you can drive on Salar de Uyuni, but it’s not exactly easy. It’s recommended to drive on this surface only with the help of a 4×4 vehicle with an experienced local driver. Although it’s safe, there’s always a risk of getting stuck on the salt flats, so it’s important to drive with caution.

8. Are there any dangers in Uyuni?

Uyuni is generally safe, but like in any tourist destination, you should exercise caution. The altitude can be a little challenging for some visitors, so it’s essential to take it slow in the first few days, drink lots of water and avoid drinking or smoking. Finally, it’s always a good idea to remain alert and aware of your surroundings when in a new place.

9. Is it possible to see stars in Uyuni?

Yes, Uyuni’s isolated location makes it the perfect place to stargaze. The night skies in this area of Bolivia are incredibly clear and incredibly vast, giving you a chance to admire the galaxy’s beauty. Since the city is so remote, there’s minimal light pollution, and you can even catch the stunning Milky Way with the naked eye.

10. What should you pack when traveling to Uyuni?

When traveling to Uyuni, it’s recommended to pack:

• Warm clothing, including hats and gloves
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm
• A camera to capture stunning landscapes
• A water bottle and snacks
• Comfortable and sturdy shoes for hikes and walks
• A warm sleeping bag for overnight tours

Book Your Tour Now

Uyuni is one of Bolivia’s hidden gems and an ideal tourist destination for nature lovers looking for a unique travel experience. With its stunning landscapes, salt flats, and diverse flora and fauna, Uyuni is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle & bustle of the city. We hope this blog post has been helpful in answering the most frequently asked questions about Uyuni, Bolivia, and we wish you an exciting and unforgettable visit!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Uyuni

Uyuni is a town located in southwestern Bolivia and is known for its vast desert landscape and the largest salt flats in the world, Salar de Uyuni. As a tourist, there are many things to do and see in Uyuni. In this post, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to spend your time in Uyuni.

1. Explore Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni is the main attraction in Uyuni and attracts tourists from all over the world. This salt flat spans over 4,000 square miles and is located at an altitude of 12,000 feet above sea level. Some of the things you can do in Salar de Uyuni include:

a. Take a guided tour

To fully experience the beauty and uniqueness of Salar de Uyuni, we recommend taking a guided tour. You can choose from a one-day tour or a multi-day tour. During the tour, you will visit various landmarks in the salt flat, including Isla Incahuasi, a cactus-covered island, the Train Cemetery, and many other stunning landscapes.

b. Watch the sunset and sunrise

Watching the sunset and sunrise in Salar de Uyuni is a must-do experience. The reflection of the sun on the salt flat creates a breathtaking view that you will never forget.

2. Visit the Train Cemetery

The Train Cemetery is one of the most popular tourist sites in Uyuni. It is located on the outskirts of the town and is a graveyard for old, rusted trains that were used in the early 20th century.

a. Take a guided tour

To fully understand the history and importance of the Train Cemetery, we recommend taking a guided tour. The guide will provide you with information about the trains and the history of the railroad in Bolivia.

3. Visit Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve

The Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve is a protected area that is home to a wide range of wildlife species unique to the area. The reserve covers an area of 7,147 square miles and boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in Bolivia.

a. Take a guided tour

To fully experience the wildlife and landscapes in the reserve, we recommend taking a guided tour. During the tour, you will visit various landmarks, including the Licancabur volcano, the Laguna Verde and Laguna Colorada lakes, and the Dali Desert.

4. Visit the Alcaya Desert

The Alcaya Desert is a beautiful desert landscape that is less visited than Salar de Uyuni, making it a perfect spot for those looking for a more secluded experience.

a. Take a guided tour

To fully experience the beauty of the Alcaya Desert, we recommend taking a guided tour. The guide will provide you with information about the desert, its history, and the unique flora and fauna found in the area.

5. Try Local Dishes

No trip to Uyuni is complete without trying the local cuisine. Some dishes that you should try include:

a. Salteñas

Salteñas are a delicious pastry filled with meat, potatoes, peas, and other ingredients. They are usually eaten for breakfast or lunch.

b. Llama Meat

Llama meat is a staple in Bolivian cuisine, and you should give it a try while in Uyuni. It is typically served grilled or roasted and is high in protein and low in fat.

6. Visit the Uyuni Main Square

The Uyuni main square is a bustling area that is home to various restaurants, souvenir shops, and markets. It is a perfect spot to relax and soak in the local culture.

a. Shop for Souvenirs

The Uyuni main square is home to several markets selling souvenirs such as woolen garments, alpaca wool products, and crafts.

b. Visit the Uyuni Cathedral

The Uyuni Cathedral is located on the main square and is a beautiful colonial-style building that is worth visiting. In conclusion, Uyuni offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists. From the vast salt flats to the Alcaya Desert and the Train Cemetery, there are plenty of things to do and see. We recommend taking a guided tour to fully experience the beauty and history of this incredible town.