Exploring Bolivia's Salt Flats: A Travel Guide

The Salar de Uyuni, also known as the Bolivian Salt Flats, is a popular tourist destination in Bolivia. It is the world's largest salt flat, covering an area of over 10,000 square kilometres. The nearest town to the salt flats is Uyuni, which can be reached by bus, train, or plane from La Paz. The bus journey takes around 8-12 hours, while the flight takes just one hour. It is also possible to take a train from La Paz to Oruro and then connect to Uyuni, which takes around 10-11 hours in total. From Uyuni, it is possible to join a tour of the salt flats, which typically last one to three days. Alternatively, it is possible to join a tour that departs from Tupiza or San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. When planning a trip to the Bolivian Salt Flats, it is important to consider the time of year, as the dry season (April to October) and rainy season (November to March) offer different experiences.

Getting to Uyuni from La Paz

The Salar de Uyuni (aka the Bolivian Salt Flats or Uyuni Salt Flats) is a must-see when visiting Bolivia. The world's largest salt flat, it covers a whopping 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles). Getting to this remote location does take time and effort.

The most common route to Uyuni is from La Paz, a ten-hour, 540-kilometre (335-mile) bus ride away. You can also take a four-hour bus to Oruro and then hop on a train to Uyuni, another six or seven hours away. A one-way trip using either method will cost about 32-120 BOB ($5-17 USD).

If you're short on time, you can fly from La Paz to Uyuni. The flight takes about an hour and costs around $170-250 USD.

By Bus

• Book your tickets in advance using a website like Tickets Bolivia, especially if you're travelling during a busy holiday weekend.
• If you want a lie-flat seat, book a "cama" bus.
• The bus ride will take about 8-10 hours, so bring some entertainment and snacks.
• Consider taking a luxury bus service like Todo Turismo or Cruz Del Norte for a more comfortable journey. These buses offer amenities like meals, wifi, and reclining seats.
• Arrive at the bus station early, especially if you haven't bought your ticket yet.
• Bring layers for the journey, as it can get cold at high altitudes.
• Consider bringing a travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and a blanket for a more comfortable journey.

By Train

• Take a four-hour bus from La Paz to Oruro.
• From Oruro, take the Expreso Del Sur or Wara Wara del Sur train to Uyuni. The Expreso Del Sur is more expensive and comfortable, while the Wara Wara del Sur is cheaper.
• The train ride will take about six to seven hours.
• Train tickets can be purchased on the Tickets Bolivia website.

By Plane

• Book your flights in advance to get the best prices.
• There are two companies that fly this route: Amaszonas and Boliviana de Aviacion.
• Flights typically cost around $50 USD one way, but prices can vary depending on the season and demand.
• The flight takes about an hour, making it a good option for those short on time.

Once you arrive in Uyuni, you can book a tour of the Salt Flats, either through a local tour operator or online. Most tours last one to three days and include visits to the salt flats, lagoons, deserts, and other natural attractions in the area.

Getting to Uyuni from Chile

Bus Options:

Taking a bus from Chile to Uyuni is one of the most popular options for travellers. However, it is important to note that there are no direct buses from Chile to Uyuni. The journey typically involves crossing the border and changing buses, which can be a logistical challenge. It is recommended to opt for a guided tour instead, which can make the process smoother.

If you are determined to travel by bus independently, here are some possible routes:

• Arica to Oruro to Uyuni: This route was suggested by a traveller on the TripAdvisor forum as a potential option for getting to Uyuni from Chile. However, they were also seeking more information, indicating that it may not be a well-known or frequently used route.
• Calama to Uyuni: Buses depart hourly from the bus terminal in Calama, Chile, to San Pedro de Atacama, from where you can continue to Uyuni. This route is often used by travellers doing a tour of the salt flats from San Pedro de Atacama.
• Santiago to Calama to San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni: This is a multi-step process. First, take a bus or flight from Santiago to Calama. Then, take the bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama, and finally, either join a tour or take another bus to Uyuni.

Tour Options:

Taking a tour from San Pedro de Atacama in Chile to Uyuni is a popular choice for travellers. These tours typically last 3 to 4 days and offer a more comfortable and convenient way to get to Uyuni while also exploring the stunning landscapes along the way.

3-Day Tour: This tour starts in San Pedro de Atacama and finishes in Uyuni, making it ideal for those travelling north from Chile. You will get to see the salt flats on the final day of the tour.

4-Day Tour: This tour starts and ends in San Pedro de Atacama, catering to those who wish to return to Chile or continue travelling south. With this option, you get to savour the salt flats as the grand finale of your journey.

Additional Considerations:

When planning your trip to Uyuni, keep in mind the following:

• Standards of Tour Operators: Tours originating in Chile tend to have higher standards of tour operators compared to those in Bolivia. This means you may experience better organisation, comfort, and safety.
• Border Crossing: Crossing the border between Chile and Bolivia can be a complex process. Tours can help streamline this, but if travelling independently, be prepared for potential challenges and delays.
• Time Considerations: The bus journey from La Paz, Bolivia, to Uyuni takes about 8 hours. In comparison, the bus journey from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni can take up to 11 hours, including the border crossing.
• Tour Costs: Tours from San Pedro de Atacama tend to be more expensive than those starting in Uyuni, Bolivia, due to the higher costs of goods and services in Chile.
• Scams: Be cautious when booking tours, especially in Uyuni. Some companies scam tourists, so it is recommended to book in La Paz or online with reputable companies.

In conclusion, getting to Uyuni from Chile is a journey that requires careful planning and flexibility. The most convenient option is to join a tour from San Pedro de Atacama, which offers a more comfortable and guided experience. If you choose to travel independently by bus, be prepared for a longer journey and potential challenges with border crossings and transportation connections.

Getting to Uyuni from Peru

The Salar de Uyuni, or the Bolivian Salt Flats, is a must-see destination for many travellers to Bolivia. This remote location, near the Bolivia-Chile border and the Bolivia-Argentina border, is the world's largest salt flat, covering a whopping 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles).

If you are travelling from Peru to Uyuni, you will first need to make your way to the Bolivian capital of La Paz. From Lima, Puno, or Cusco in Peru, you can take a bus or plane to La Paz. The bus journey is the cheaper option and offers a great opportunity to see the diverse landscapes of Peru and Bolivia. Peru Hop is a reputable company that offers this route and provides bilingual guides to assist with border crossings. The journey by bus takes around 10 hours.

For those short on time, flying from Lima to La Paz is an option, although it can be expensive, with round-trip tickets generally costing $300 or more. From La Paz, you can then take an overnight bus to Uyuni, which takes approximately 8-12 hours. Todo Turismo is a recommended bus company for this route.

Once in Uyuni, you can book a tour of the Salt Flats, with options ranging from one to four days. Most tours depart from Uyuni, although it is also possible to join a tour from Tupiza or San Pedro de Atacama in Chile.

• Travel from Lima, Puno, or Cusco in Peru to La Paz, Bolivia, by bus or plane.
• Take an overnight bus from La Paz to Uyuni, which takes approximately 8-12 hours.
• Book a tour of the Salt Flats in Uyuni, ranging from one to four days in duration.
• Consider joining a tour from Tupiza or San Pedro de Atacama for a different perspective and fewer crowds.

By following these steps, you will be able to get to Uyuni from Peru and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Bolivian Salt Flats.

Getting to Uyuni from Argentina

From Argentina to the Border

Firstly, you'll need to get to the town of La Quiaca, which is located on the Argentinian side of the border with Bolivia. There are a few ways to do this, depending on your starting point in Argentina. Regular buses connect La Quiaca with other Argentinian destinations such as Humahuaca, Tilcara, San Pedro de Jujuy, and Salta. The journey time from these places ranges from 2 to 7 hours.

Crossing the Border

Once you arrive at La Quiaca, the border with Bolivia is just a 10-minute walk or a short taxi ride away. There is no official exit point when leaving Bolivia, so simply cross the bridge on foot and head to the Argentinian immigration office, which is housed in a container-like structure on the right-hand side. Here, you will get your entry stamp into Argentina, and they will also sort out your Bolivian departure paperwork.

From the Border to Uyuni

After completing the border crossing, it's a short walk into the town of Villazon, where you can catch a bus to Uyuni. There are a few companies that operate this route, with buses usually departing either very early in the morning or in the early afternoon. The journey takes around 6 hours.

Alternative Routes

There are alternative ways to get to Uyuni from Argentina, although they may be more complicated or time-consuming. One option is to fly, but this usually involves multiple layovers and can take upwards of 16 hours. Another option is to take a bus to Jujuy in Argentina and then fly to Uyuni, although this will also likely involve a layover.

Choosing a Salt Flat Tour Company

There are several factors to consider when choosing a tour company for a trip to the Bolivian Salt Flats. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Starting Point and Duration: The first step is to decide on your preferred starting point and the duration of the tour. Tours typically depart from cities like Uyuni, La Paz, Tupiza, Sucre, and even San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. The length of tours can vary from one day to three days or more, depending on your preferences and schedule.
• Online Booking Platforms: While you can book tours online through platforms like Get Your Guide or Viator, it's worth noting that booking directly with local tour offices in Bolivia or Chile can often be more cost-effective. Collecting brochures from different agencies and comparing their tours, prices, and online reviews can help you make an informed decision.
• Reviews and Recommendations: Take the time to read reviews from previous customers to get a sense of their experiences. Look for recommendations from reputable sources or travel bloggers who have personally taken similar tours. This can give you valuable insights into the quality of the tour company's services, accommodations, and overall experience.
• Safety and Accommodations: When choosing a tour company, prioritize your safety and comfort. Opt for companies that provide oxygen bottles for high-altitude travel, as altitude sickness can be a concern. Inquire about the accommodations, as some companies may offer basic or subpar options. If you prioritize comfort, look for companies that provide hot showers, private rooms, and other amenities that align with your expectations.
• Language: If you are not multilingual, be sure to ask whether the tour guides speak English or your preferred language. This will ensure that you can communicate effectively and understand the information provided during the tour.
• Vehicle and Group Size: Most tours use 4x4 vehicles like Land Cruisers to navigate the salt flats. Consider the group size that you'll be travelling with, as a smaller group may offer a more personalized experience.
• Attractions and Inclusions: Compare the attractions and inclusions offered by different tour companies. Ensure that the tour covers the places you want to visit, such as the salt flats themselves, lagoons, geysers, rock formations, and any other natural wonders that interest you. Also, clarify what is included in the price, such as meals, transportation, and entrance fees, to avoid unexpected costs.
• Price: Prices for tours can vary depending on the duration, starting point, and inclusions. Be sure to understand what is included in the quoted price to make an accurate comparison between different companies.
• Booking in Advance: It is generally recommended to book your tour in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons. This ensures that you secure your spot and avoid potential scams that may occur when booking last-minute or directly in Uyuni.
• Flexibility and Customization: If you have specific interests or preferences, consider choosing a tour company that allows for some flexibility or customization. Communicate your expectations clearly to the tour company and your guide to ensure that your desired experiences are included in the itinerary.

Remember to do your research, read reviews, and ask questions to ensure that you choose a reputable tour company that aligns with your budget, preferences, and expectations for the Bolivian Salt Flats experience.

Frequently asked questions