Ruqayyah Snyder
Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat, covering a staggering 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles) in the country's southwest. The result of the evaporation of prehistoric lakes, the salt flat is a spectacular sight, attracting more than 300,000 visitors each year.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Salar de Uyuni |
| Area | 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles) |
| Location | Daniel Campos Province in Potosí in southwest Bolivia |
| Elevation | 3,656 metres (11,995 feet) above sea level |
| Formation | Transformations between several prehistoric lakes that existed around forty thousand years ago |
| Salt Crust Thickness | A few metres |
| Salt Crust Composition | Sodium chloride, magnesium, potassium, and lithium |
| Use | Source of salt, breeding ground for flamingos, transport route, filming location |
What You'll Learn
The world's largest salt flat
The Salar de Uyuni (or "Salar de Tunupa") is the world's largest salt flat, spanning an area of 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles) in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí, southwest Bolivia. Formed by the evaporation of prehistoric lakes, it is now covered by a few metres of salt crust, which has an extraordinarily flat surface with average elevation variations of within one metre over the entire area.
The Salar de Uyuni sits at an elevation of 3,656 metres (11,995 feet) above sea level, near the crest of the Andes mountains. The vast expanse of salt creates a surreal and otherworldly appearance, especially during the dry season when the salt crust hardens and forms a vast white landscape.
During the rainy season, the salt flat transforms into the world's largest mirror, with a thin layer of water covering the salt crust and creating stunning optical illusions and photo opportunities. This natural phenomenon occurs from December to April, when a thin sheet of water covers the crusted white salt, reflecting the sky and creating breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
The Salar de Uyuni is not just a salt flat but also contains significant lithium reserves, providing a lucrative extraction site for lithium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. It is also a prime breeding ground for several species of flamingos and serves as a major transport route across the Bolivian Altiplano.
The unique landscape of the Salar de Uyuni has attracted visitors from around the world, making it the most famous tourist draw in Bolivia and one of the most popular destinations in all of South America. The best time to visit depends on the experience sought—the rainy season for the mirror effect and the dry season for a stark white landscape.
The town of Uyuni, located near the salt flats, is the most popular jumping-off point for tours, with options ranging from one to four days. Tours typically include visits to the train cemetery, geysers, hot springs, colourful lagoons, and unique wildlife such as flamingos, vicuñas, and vizcachas.
The Salar de Uyuni offers a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience, with its vast expanse of salt creating a stunning natural mirror and otherworldly landscapes that will leave visitors in awe.
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The Salar de Uyuni
During the rainy season, from December to April, the salt flat occasionally transforms into a shallow lake, becoming the world's largest natural mirror. This mirror-like surface reflects the sky, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. The rainy season is also a prime breeding ground for several species of flamingos. In the dry season, from May to November, the ground hardens, and visitors can drive across the vast white landscape.
The area surrounding the Salar de Uyuni is largely devoid of wildlife and vegetation. However, giant cacti, quinoa plants, and queñua bushes can be found. The salt flats are also home to the world's first salt hotel, which was built using salt blocks cut from the Salar itself.
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Visiting during the dry season
The Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the world's largest salt flat, covering an area of 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles) and sitting at 3,656 metres (11,995 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí in southwest Bolivia, near the crest of the Andes.
If you're planning to visit the salt plains during the dry season, which runs from May to November, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the temperatures will be colder, and the ground will be harder, making it easier to drive across the plains. This also means you'll be able to access areas that are usually inaccessible during the rainy season. Tour operators often consider June through August their high period, and rates may rise accordingly. So, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to consider visiting in early May or late November.
During the dry season, you'll be able to see the stunning crystallised salt patterns that form across the vast expanse of the salt flats. These polygonal patterns of salt create a unique and magical vista that is well worth witnessing. Additionally, the dry season is the perfect time for stargazing, as the clear skies and bright salt flats create the perfect backdrop for a starry night.
While the dry season offers stunning visuals and easier access, it's important to note that the nights can get extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below zero. Make sure to pack warm clothes, including layers, a hat, and gloves. It's also important to bring sunscreen and lip balm, as the sun's rays reflect off the salt flats, increasing the risk of sunburn.
Another advantage of visiting during the dry season is the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, such as deserts, geysers, hot springs, and high-altitude lakes. Many visitors opt for multi-day tours that include these attractions in addition to the salt flats themselves. Keep in mind that English-speaking guides typically cost more, but they can provide valuable insights into the region's culture and history.
Overall, visiting the Salar de Uyuni during the dry season offers a unique and memorable experience. With its breathtaking landscapes, adventurous activities, and comfortable accessibility, it's no wonder that the salt plains of Bolivia are a popular destination for travellers from around the world.
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Getting there by bus, train or plane
Salar de Uyuni is located in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí in southwest Bolivia, near the crest of the Andes. It is the world's largest salt flat, covering 10,582 square kilometres.
Getting There by Bus, Train, or Plane
There are three main transport options for getting to Uyuni: La Paz city, San Pedro de Atacama (Chile), and Santa Cruz city.
By Plane
Flights to Uyuni from La Paz or Santa Cruz are possible, although not direct. The flight from La Paz to Uyuni takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs between $89 and $145. The airport in Uyuni is just 10 minutes from the town centre. However, the airport in La Paz is 40 minutes from the city centre, so you'll need to factor in travel time and costs.
By Bus
If you're feeling adventurous, taking a bus is an option. Bolivia's tourist infrastructure is not the best, but the offer is improving. There are three companies recommended for this route: Trans Titicaca, Todo Turismo, and Trans Omar. The journey is long and can be uncomfortable, but these companies provide standard buses with adequate quality.
From La Paz to Uyuni, the trip takes 12 to 15 hours. Trans Titicaca Bolivia Bus is highly recommended and has daily departures at 22:00. The highway is paved, but travel during the rainy season can be more difficult.
From Santa Cruz to Uyuni, the journey is much longer, taking 18 to 20 hours. First, you'll need to take a bus from Santa Cruz to Sucre, a 12-hour trip with an approximate cost of $20 to $30. The only recommended company for this route is TEQUILAZO. In Sucre, you can take a direct bus to Uyuni, which takes around 7 hours. The only recommended company for this route is 6 DE OCTOBRE, with daily departures at 09:30 and 20:30.
By Train
FCA (Empresa Ferroviaria Andina S.A.) is the only railway company transporting passengers to Uyuni. There are two train alternatives: Expreso Sur and Wara Wara.
Expreso Sur has departures on Tuesdays and Fridays at 15:30. Wara Wara has departures on Wednesdays and Sundays at 19:00. This line offers night departures and stops at all intermediate stations. It also offers different classes of service, including dining options.
Getting to Uyuni from Other Countries
From Chile
If you're coming from Chile, you can take a bus or public transport from Calama to Uyuni. First, transfer to Calama from San Pedro de Atacama, then go to the Calama bus terminal to buy your ticket. Recommended companies for this route are Cruz del Norte and Atacama 2000, with prices around $15 per person and a travel time of over 8 hours.
From Peru
It is possible to fly from Cusco to La Paz and then to Uyuni, but these flights are prone to delays and cancellations due to weather conditions.
From Argentina
To get to Uyuni from Argentina, you can fly with Aerolineas Argentinas to San Salvador de Jujuy, then go by road to La Quiaca, and cross to Villazon. From there, you can take a 9-hour train journey to Uyuni. Alternatively, you can fly from Buenos Aires to Cochabamba, then take a bus to Oruro, and a train to Uyuni.
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What to pack
The Salar de Uyuni, or the Uyuni Salt Flat, is located in the southwest of Bolivia, at the crest of the Andes mountains. It is the largest salt flat in the world, covering 10,582 square kilometres (or 3,900 to 4,050 square miles). The ground is entirely made of salt, with a thick layer of brine lying underneath.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential. The sun's glare off the salt can be intense, and the air is thinner at high altitudes, so you will burn more quickly.
- Warm layers: be prepared for cold nights and strong winds. Bring a beanie, gloves, a scarf, and thermal underwear.
- Good, thick socks: your feet will thank you!
- Sleeping bag: while blankets are usually provided, it's always good to have some extra warmth.
- Flip-flops: if you're visiting during the rainy season, you won't want to get your shoes soaked in salty water.
- A swimsuit: if you're visiting the hot springs.
- A rain jacket: especially important during the rainy season.
- A headlamp: power is limited, so bring your own light source.
- A camera and fun photo props: the salt flats are famous for their photo opportunities, so make the most of it!
- An aux cord: plug in your own tunes for the long car rides.
- Water: it's important to stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes.
- Cash: there are limited ATMs in Uyuni, and you'll need cash for entrance fees and other small purchases.
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Frequently asked questions
The salt plains in Bolivia are in the Salar de Uyuni, in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí in southwest Bolivia, near the crest of the Andes.
The salt plains were formed as a result of transformations between several prehistoric lakes that existed around forty thousand years ago but eventually evaporated.
The salt plains cover a whopping 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 square miles), making it the largest salt flat in the world.
The salt plains themselves are a spectacular sight, with a thick crust of salt extending to the horizon. During certain times of the year, a thin layer of water transforms the flats into a stunning reflection of the sky. The area is also home to flamingos and other wildlife, geysers, colourful lagoons, and a train graveyard.
