How to Plan Your Uyuni Adventure: 3-Day Tour of Salt Flats with Food & Local Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Bolivia, a tour of the world-famous Uyuni Salt Flats is a must-do. Not only are the flats a spectacular natural wonder, but they are surrounded by colorful lagoons, towering volcanoes, and fascinating geological formations. And with this 3-day tour of the salt flats, you’ll get ample time to take it all in. Starting from Uyuni and ending in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, this tour includes everything you need for a comfortable and informative journey. From meals to accommodations to a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, this tour will show you the best that the area has to offer. So, to plan your Uyuni adventure, follow these steps.

Step 1: Choose a Trusted Tour Company

The key to a successful Uyuni tour is choosing a reliable tour company. With so many companies offering tours, it can be hard to know which one to choose. However, this tour, provided by GetYourGuide, has been vetted by thousands of travelers.

Step 2: Pick Your Departure Date

The tour departs from Uyuni city, so the first step is to pick the date of your departure. You can check availability and book the tour directly on the tour company’s website. Once you have selected your preferred date, you will receive an email confirming your booking.

Step 3: Understand the Itinerary

The 3-day tour will take you to some of the most incredible sites in the Uyuni region. On day one, you will visit the Train Cemetery, the Colchani village, the Uyuni Salt Flats, and the Incahuasi Island. Afterwards, you will stay overnight in Ajencha. On day two, you will visit the Chiguana Desert, the Ollague Volcano viewpoint, the Siloli Desert, Laguna Colorado, and Laguna Verde. The evening will be spent at the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. And on day three, you will visit the Sol de Mañana geysers, the Polques hot springs, and the Green Lagoon before crossing the Chilean border and ending in San Pedro de Atacama.

Step 4: Know What’s Included

One of the best parts of this tour is that it is all-inclusive. That means that all meals, accommodations, and transportation are provided. You’ll be staying in comfortable hotels along the way, and meals will be provided by local chefs. Plus, you’ll have a knowledgeable English-speaking guide with you throughout the entire journey.

Step 5: Prepare for the Altitude

The Uyuni Salt Flats are located at a high altitude, so it’s important to acclimate before starting the tour. If you’re flying to Bolivia, it’s recommended that you arrive a few days before the tour to acclimate to the altitude. And during the tour, make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity.

Step 6: Pack Appropriately

When packing for your Uyuni adventure, make sure to bring warm clothing for the cold nights (temperatures can drop below freezing) and sunscreen for the sunny days. A hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle are also recommended.

Step 7: Book the Tour

To book the 3-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, visit GetYourGuide’s website and select your preferred date. The tour costs $375 per person and includes everything you need for a comfortable and informative journey. Book the tour here – book here. With this 3-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, you’ll experience some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. From the Train Cemetery to Incahuasi Island, this tour covers all the must-see sights in the area. So, follow these steps to plan your Uyuni adventure and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uyuni

1. What is Uyuni?

Uyuni is a small city located in the southwest of Bolivia, near the border with Chile. It is situated on the Bolivian Altiplano, at an altitude of 3,656 meters. Uyuni is known for its vast salt flats, which are the largest in the world.

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 this time, the weather is clear and sunny, and the salt flats are dry, making them easier to explore. The wet season, which runs from December to April, can be more challenging for visitors due to heavy rainfall and muddy conditions.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Uyuni?

The must-see attractions in Uyuni include the Salar de Uyuni, a vast expanse of salt flats that stretches for over 10,000 square kilometers, the train cemetery, where visitors can see abandoned trains from the early 20th century, and the Isla Incahuasi, a rocky island in the middle of the salt flats with towering cacti and panoramic views.

4. How do I get to Uyuni?

Uyuni is accessible by air, bus, or train. The closest airport is in the city of Potosi, which is about a four-hour drive from Uyuni. Buses run regularly from major cities in Bolivia, such as La Paz and Sucre, and it is also possible to take a train from Oruro.

5. What is the altitude in Uyuni, and how should I prepare for it?

Uyuni is located at an altitude of 3,656 meters, which can cause altitude sickness for some visitors. It is recommended to spend a day or two in nearby cities such as Potosi or Sucre, which are at lower altitudes, to acclimatize before visiting Uyuni. Visitors should also drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and eat light meals to help prevent altitude sickness.

6. What is the climate like in Uyuni?

The climate in Uyuni is cold and dry, with average temperatures ranging from -20°C to 20°C. During the dry season, the weather is generally clear and sunny, while the wet season can bring heavy rain and thunderstorms.

7. What are the accommodations like in Uyuni?

Uyuni has a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Many of the accommodations are geared toward visitors who are exploring the salt flats and offer tours and excursions. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel season.

8. What is the food like in Uyuni?

The food in Uyuni is a mix of traditional Bolivian cuisine and international dishes. Many of the restaurants and cafes in the city cater to visitors and offer a range of options. It is recommended to try some of the local specialties, such as llama meat and quinoa dishes.

9. What are the safety concerns in Uyuni?

While Uyuni is generally a safe city, visitors should be cautious when exploring the salt flats alone. It is recommended to hire a local guide or join a tour group to explore the area safely. Visitors should also be aware of the altitude and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. It is also recommended to take precautions against theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.

10. What should I pack for a visit to Uyuni?

Visitors to Uyuni should pack warm clothing for cold temperatures, including a warm hat and gloves. Comfortable, waterproof shoes are recommended for exploring the salt flats. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential, as the high altitude and reflection from the salt flats can cause sunburns. Visitors should also bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce waste.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Uyuni

Uyuni is a small, remote town in Bolivia that is home to one of the world’s largest salt flats. It’s a popular destination for travelers who are looking for a unique and surreal experience in the middle of the desert. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Uyuni.

1. Visit the Salar de Uyuni

The Salar de Uyuni is the main attraction in Uyuni and one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. It’s a vast salt flat that stretches for over 10,000 square kilometers, creating a stunning white landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. To visit the Salar de Uyuni, you can either book a tour or rent a car and explore on your own. Most tours start in the town of Uyuni and take you to the salt flats, as well as other nearby attractions like the Incahuasi Island and the Train Cemetery.

2. Explore the Train Cemetery

The Train Cemetery is a unique attraction located just a few kilometers from Uyuni town. It’s an old railway yard where dozens of rusted locomotives and wagons have been abandoned, creating an eerie and surreal atmosphere. The Train Cemetery is a popular spot for photographers and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Uyuni. It’s usually included in most tours that visit the Salar de Uyuni, but you can also visit on your own if you rent a car.

3. Visit Incahuasi Island

Incahuasi Island is a small rocky outcrop located in the middle of the Salar de Uyuni. It’s home to a unique ecosystem of cacti and other plants that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the salt flat. Visiting Incahuasi Island is a great way to break up your tour of the Salar de Uyuni and experience something different. You can take a short hike to the top of the island and enjoy panoramic views of the salt flats.

4. Learn About Bolivian Culture

Uyuni is a great place to learn more about Bolivian culture and history. The town has several museums and cultural centers that showcase traditional art and crafts, as well as the history of the region. The Casa de la Cultura is a popular destination for cultural events and exhibitions. The Museo Arqueológico displays artifacts from the pre-Columbian era, while the Museo del Ferrocarril tells the story of the railway that used to run through Uyuni.

5. Try Local Cuisine

Bolivian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from indigenous and Spanish traditions. Uyuni has several restaurants that serve traditional dishes like salteñas, empanadas, and pique macho. One of the most popular restaurants in Uyuni is La Cabaña de Sal, which serves delicious seafood dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Another great option is La Llama, which offers a mix of Bolivian and international cuisine.

6. Experience the Night Sky

Uyuni is located in a remote area with very little light pollution, making it an ideal destination for stargazing. The night sky in Uyuni is stunning, with thousands of stars visible on clear nights. Many tours offer night-time excursions that include stargazing and astronomy lessons. You can also rent a car and drive out to the salt flats on your own for an unforgettable night-time experience.

7. Shop for Souvenirs

Uyuni has several markets and shops where you can buy traditional crafts and souvenirs. The Mercado Municipal is a bustling market that sells everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles and ceramics. The town also has several souvenir shops that sell salt lamps, alpaca sweaters, and other locally made items. Be sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best prices.

Book Your Tour Now

Uyuni is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. By visiting the Salar de Uyuni, exploring the Train Cemetery and Incahuasi Island, learning about Bolivian culture, trying local dishes, stargazing, and shopping for souvenirs, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Uyuni.