We had always dreamed of visiting the Uyuni Salt Flats. It seemed like a place that couldn’t possibly exist with its iconic mirror effect or a blanket of pure white stretching across the land, so we had to see it for ourselves.
But for one reason or another, planning this trip to the salt flats really overwhelmed me. Which tour should we take? What do we need to bring? What should we prepare for?
But I am so glad we didn’t let that stop us. This has been one of our favorite adventures ever.
So, we created this helpful tip guide to help you feel less overwhelmed, more prepared, and excited to take on this epic adventure!
What You Need to Know About Taking a 3-Day Uyuni Salt Flat Tour
1. Figure out the time of year you want to visit
2. Make a plan of how to get to Uyuni
3. Pick a reputable tour company.
4. Pick the right Trip Duration for you
5. Bring Coins and Toilet Paper for the Bathrooms
6. DON’T Forget your sunglasses and protection
7. Pack the right clothes
8. You can use the multi day trip to continue on to Chile!
9. Be ready for for the elevation
10. Carry cash on you
11. BONUS
1. Figure out the time of year you want to visit (Wet vs. Dry Season)
The salt flats have two major seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season runs from May to October, which is when we visited (June 2024), and we loved it! During the dry season, the salt flats turn into a sheet of white, crystalline salt crust that looks like it stretches endlessly.
The wet season runs from November to April, and this is when the salt flats become a giant natural mirror, reflecting the sky and creating a seamless horizon. The shallow layer of water turns the flats into a surreal, dreamlike world where clouds, sunsets, and stars are mirrored perfectly on the surface, blurring the line between earth and sky.
Both times of year have their pros and cons. In the wet season, the Salt Flats offer stunning mirror-like reflections, perfect for photography but can limit vehicle access. In the dry season, the flats are accessible and showcase unique salt formations without a magical mirror effect.
2. Make a plan of how to get to Uyuni
Most people start their Salt Flat adventure by flying into La Paz, Bolivia, which is about 8 hours by car away! Other major cities people fly into are San Pedro de Atacama in Chile or Santa Cruz, Bolivia (still multiple hours away from Uyuni!). There are a few ways to get to your destination.
Fly: You can take a domestic flight to Uyuni Airport from the city you fly into. Ticket prices typically range from $100 to $200 USD for a round trip, depending on the season and how far in advance you book. The flight is about an hour long over the stunning Andes Mountains. The flights are generally operated by small regional airlines, offering basic but comfortable service, and they’re a convenient choice for saving time compared to the long overland journey.
Work with your Tour Company: Coordinate with your tour company. Often, tour companies offer transportation from these major cities to Uyuni for an extra fee. If this interests you, contact the company before purchasing tickets to confirm.
Take the overnight bus! This is by far the cheapest way to get to the Salt Flats (of course, the way we took to get to Uyuni), with tickets costing about $13 – 25 USD one way. Buses generally leave in the evening, offering a budget-friendly choice for long-distance travel, though road conditions can make for a somewhat bumpy ride. We purchased our tickets the day of at the bus station (literally 10 minutes before the bus left!) and honestly slept pretty well during the night!
3. Pick a reputable tour company
Before you book your tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, it’s a good idea to find a reputable tour company. Take a few moments to check out reviews on TripAdvisor, Viator, or Get Your Guide to help you make a solid choice. Different companies offer different perks, so it pays to compare. We decided to go with Perla de Bolivia because they had good reviews and some of the best prices around. Just a heads up, our 4×4 wasn’t the newest, and we did have a breakdown along the way (you know how it goes—you often get what you pay for!). But in the end, we made it back safe and sound. Just remember, a little research can go a long way in making your trip enjoyable!
4. Pick the right Trip Duration for you
Tour companies typically offer one, two, or three-day tours.
A one-day tour gives you a great taste of the salt flats, including classic sights like the salt mounds, “Train Cemetery,” and incredible photo opportunities at sunset.
Two-day tours include time to explore further, with stops at nearby attractions like the Ollagüe Volcano and more unique landscapes, offering a deeper look at Bolivia’s highlands.
The three-day tour is ideal for adventure seekers, as it allows for a comprehensive journey through the remote beauty of the Eduardo Avaroa National Park, with stunning views of colorful lagoons, hot springs, geysers, and diverse wildlife.
This extended chioce is worth it if you want the full desert experience, but keep in mind that it’s a rugged journey with basic accommodations.
5. Bring Coins and Toilet Paper for the Bathroom
There will be plenty of bathrooms to use during the tour. They may not be 5-star bathrooms, but they are there! You will need to pay to use the bathroom, typically 2 – 5 Bolivianos per person, and they typically have toilet paper. But to be on the safe side, keep a little stash of TP on you!
There may be a few times that you need to use the “Inca” toilet (nature). I never had to, but others did!
6. DON’T Forget your sunglasses and protection
The sun’s reflection off the salt flats is unreal (especially during the dry season). You will want to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes during your adventure. Brandon did not bring his, so we had to buy a pair from one of the stands that we came across. They were not great quality.
Also, bring sunscreen and a hat to protect from the sun. There is no shade on the salt flats or in the desert, and the sun is intense.
7. Pack the right clothes
Pack layers for a salt flat tour to prepare for the high-altitude (11,985 feet (3,653 meters)) temperature swings, as it can be sunny and warm during the day but freezing at night, especially on multi-day tours.
Bring a warm, insulated jacket, a windproof outer layer, and moisture-wicking base layers for flexibility. Lightweight, comfortable pants and long-sleeved shirts help protect against the sun. Comfortable hiking shoes or boots are ideal, especially for exploring rugged areas, and pack a small, waterproof bag for essentials to keep them safe from salt and dust.
8. You can use the multi day trip to continue on to Chile!
Many three-day tours continue south from Uyuni through the Eduardo Avaroa National Park, allowing you to visit stunning sites like the Red Lagoon, Green Lagoon, and hot springs along the way. The tour ends near the Bolivian-Chilean border, where a transfer can take you directly to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile, saving you both time and effort compared to backtracking to Uyuni. This route not only maximizes your experience of the Altiplano’s landscapes but also offers a practical, scenic transition into northern Chile.
9. Be ready for for the elevation
The salt flats sit around 11,985 feet (3,653 meters) above sea level. Acclimatization is key; spend a day or two at a similar altitude before your tour to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if you’re prone to it. Be mindful of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, and don’t hesitate to rest or descend to a lower elevation if you start feeling unwell.
10. Carry cash on you
Many places do not accept credit cards, and you wont find an ATM outside Uyuni.
Bolivianos (BOB) is the local currency, so make sure you have enough for entrance fees to attractions, meals, and any souvenirs you might want to buy.
While some tour operators include meals and accommodation in their packages, having extra cash for snacks, drinks, and optional activities like visiting hot springs or purchasing handicrafts from local vendors is a good idea.
Additionally, having small denominations on hand can be helpful for tipping your guides or drivers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience on your adventure.
Uyuni does have ATMs you can use before your tour begins. We brought 700 Bolivianos with us, and that was plenty.
BONUS TIP!
Check Visa Requirements
Different countries have different visa requirements for entering Bolivia. U.S. Citizens must pay $160 USD for a ten-year visa upon arrival. Make sure you have all the correct documentation to enter the country.
It’s advisable to consult your country’s Bolivian consulate or embassy to verify whether a visa is needed, what type of visa to apply for, and any necessary documentation or fees.
Additionally, be aware of any specific entry requirements related to health, like vaccinations, to have a smooth journey.
Final Thoughts
Our Three-Day Uyuni Salt Flat Tour was one of the best adventures we’ve ever had, and we even want to come back during the wet season to see the iconic mirror effect. Although there may be a lot to think about when going on the tour, you will be well taken care of by the people around you. With the right preparation, it will be the trip of a lifetime!
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