Ruqayyah Snyder
Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, is a popular tourist destination in Bolivia. It is a remarkable vista, with a thick crust of salt stretching to the horizon. The flats have served as a filming location for movies such as *Star Wars: The Last Jedi* and are a prime breeding ground for several flamingo species. The harsh conditions, including high altitude and extreme weather, can be challenging for visitors. Here is a guide on what to wear to survive the extreme conditions and make the most of your trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Daytime temperatures average 13° Celsius, night-time temperatures drop as low as -20° Celsius |
| Weather | Biting winds, freezing temperatures, dry |
| Altitude | 3,000-4,600m above sea level |
| Season | Dry season (May to November), rainy season (December to April) |
| Clothing | Lightweight thermals, waterproofs, hiking boots, hat, gloves, sunglasses, swimwear |
| Toiletries | Lip balm, sunscreen, hand sanitiser, toilet roll, wet wipes |
| Other | Camera, binoculars, tripod, head torch, water, snacks, cash |
Wear a sports bra
The Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia are a bumpy ride. The roads are rough, and although drivers do their best to keep the trucks steady, you will be bouncing up and down. A sports bra will ensure you are strapped in tight for the journey, whatever your cup size.
The tour is quite challenging, with long days of driving, basic facilities, and harsh conditions. The accommodation is very basic, and you will spend most of your time in the 4x4 vehicle. The roads are bumpy, and you will be jostled around. A sports bra will provide support and comfort throughout the journey.
The Uyuni Salt Flats are located at a high altitude, and the extreme weather conditions can be challenging. It is very sunny, and the winds blow non-stop. The air is dry due to the altitude, and there is, of course, a lot of salt. These conditions can be hard on your body, and a sports bra will help you feel more comfortable and secure as you navigate the rugged terrain.
The tour also includes opportunities for hiking and trekking, such as at the Dali valley, where you can climb over rocks. A sports bra will provide the necessary support and comfort for these physical activities, ensuring you can fully enjoy your exploration of the stunning landscape.
In addition to the physical benefits, wearing a sports bra can also give you peace of mind and boost your confidence. Knowing that you are securely strapped in will allow you to focus on enjoying the incredible scenery and taking those epic Uyuni Salt Flats pictures.
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Pack a swimsuit
The Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia are a spectacular sight, but the conditions can be harsh. With temperatures fluctuating from hot to cold, it's important to pack accordingly. One essential item to bring is a swimsuit. This may seem counterintuitive given the cold temperatures, but there are several reasons why you'll want to have one with you.
Firstly, there are hot springs in the area, and you won't want to miss out on taking a dip. The facilities are basic, and you may feel self-conscious changing in front of others, so it's a good idea to wear your swimsuit under your clothes. That way, you can easily slip in and out of the water without any hassle.
Secondly, the salt flats themselves can become waterlogged, and you'll need appropriate footwear to navigate them. Flip-flops are ideal for this, and they can also come in handy when walking around the hotel or using the bathroom, as some of the bathroom floors can be quite nasty.
In addition to your swimsuit, make sure to pack a quick-drying travel towel. This will be useful not only for drying off after a swim but also for wiping away sweat during the hotter parts of the day.
The Uyuni Salt Flats are a unique and memorable destination, but the key to enjoying your time there is being prepared. By packing a swimsuit and other essentials, you'll be able to make the most of your experience and focus on enjoying the stunning scenery.
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Bring toilet paper
When packing for the Bolivian Salt Flats, one essential item that should be at the top of your list is toilet paper. This is because, in Bolivia, toilet paper is not flushed down the toilet but placed in a small bin provided. Therefore, it is always good to have some on hand, especially as a visitor, to avoid any potential embarrassment.
Toilet paper is not always provided in public bathrooms in Bolivia, and when it is, it is usually not enough. So, it is always better to be safe than sorry and carry your own. This is especially important for women, as they need to use it every time they visit the toilet. Moreover, drinking enough water is crucial when visiting the Salt Flats to avoid altitude sickness, and this means more toilet visits.
Toilet paper is also useful for other purposes, such as blowing your nose or cleaning your hands and face if you do not have access to water. It is also helpful to carry some cash with you to pay small fees for toilet paper in certain places.
In addition to toilet paper, wet wipes are also recommended in case you need to relieve yourself in nature. Carrying a small bag, such as a fanny pack, is ideal for keeping these essentials easily accessible when exploring the Salt Flats.
Overall, toilet paper is a necessity when visiting the Bolivian Salt Flats, and it is always better to have more than you need to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
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Bring warm clothes
The weather in the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia fluctuates from warm to freezing, so it's important to bring lots of layers, including warm clothes. The biting winds can be extreme, with speeds of up to 50 mph, so you'll want to be prepared.
On the first day, you'll experience relatively warm weather at 3,000m above sea level. However, on the second day, you'll be taken up to 4,600m, where the winds are biting and the temperatures freezing. Night-time temperatures can drop as low as --20°C, so it's essential to pack warm clothing, including hiking boots, a scarf, warm socks, gloves, a blanket, a thermal shirt, and a winter coat.
You'll spend a lot of time in a warm jeep, but when you step out to explore, you'll want to be prepared for the cold. It's recommended to bring a lightweight thermal layer that you can easily put on and take off. A lightweight thermal fleece or jacket is perfect for this, as it will keep you warm without taking up too much space in your bag.
Don't forget that many hostels don't have central heating, so you'll want to be prepared for the cold nights. A good tip is to bring a scarf to cover your nose and mouth from the dust and cold air.
The Uyuni Salt Flats are located in a remote area, so it's crucial to plan and bring everything you need in advance. You don't want your trip to be ruined by the cold, so make sure to pack those warm clothes!
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Use lip balm
The Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia are a dramatic place to visit. The sun shines fiercely, the winds blow constantly, the air is dry due to the altitude, and there's a lot of salt. These factors can cause your lips to dry out, crack, and even bleed. To avoid this, it's important to use lip balm generously throughout your visit. Even if it means taking off your gloves multiple times, it's worth it!
The sun's UV rays are more intense at this high altitude, and the salt in the air will quickly dry out your lips. Lip balm will create a protective layer that helps lock in moisture and prevent dryness and cracking. It's a small but crucial item to pack for your trip to the Salt Flats.
It's recommended to choose a lip balm that is pure fat-based, as this will make your lips shine and you'll only need to apply a small amount. Cacao butter lip balm is an excellent option, providing long-lasting moisture and protection.
In addition to lip balm, don't forget other sun protection items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a full-coverage hat. The sun's reflection off the salt flats can be intense, so it's crucial to shield yourself from the sun's rays.
By following these tips and using lip balm regularly, you can ensure that your lips stay healthy and comfortable during your visit to the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia.
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Frequently asked questions
The weather at the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia fluctuates between hot and cold, so it's important to wear layers. You'll want to bring a lightweight thermal layer, a waterproof hip pack, and a lightweight thermal fleece or jacket. Don't forget to pack thick thermal layers, too, as it can get very cold at night.
Hiking boots are recommended, as the salt will get all over your shoes. If there has been rainfall, the salt flats will be covered in a thin layer of water, so you'll want to bring flip-flops or waterproof footwear.
Don't forget to bring sun protection, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. It's also a good idea to bring lip balm, hand sanitiser, and toilet paper.
