Uyuni Salt Flats
Expedition Overview
Embark on the ultimate 3-day overland adventure crossing from the Atacama Desert in Chile to the awe-inspiring Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. Traveling in rugged 4x4 vehicles, you will traverse the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, witnessing geothermal geysers, natural hot springs, multi-colored lagoons full of flamingos, and surreal desert landscapes before ending at the largest salt flat in the world.
The Route
Day 1 Geysers & Colored Lagoons
Morning pickup in San Pedro. Cross the border into Bolivia at Hito Cajón. Transfer to a 4x4 vehicle and explore the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, visiting Laguna Blanca, Laguna Verde, the Dali Desert, Polques Hot Springs, and the Sol de Mañana Geysers. End the day at the striking Laguna Colorada. (Overnight in basic shelter)
Day 2 Siloli Desert & Alpine Lakes
Traverse the arid Siloli Desert to see the famous "Árbol de Piedra" (Stone Tree). Continue past high-altitude lagoons—Honda, Chiarcota, and Hedionda—teeming with flamingos. Descend toward the Chiguana salt flat and the Ollagüe volcano viewpoint. (Overnight in a Salt Hotel)
Day 3 The Great Salar & Uyuni Town
Wake up early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Salar de Uyuni. Explore Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti. Visit the Dakar monument, the salt museum, and the village of Colchani. Conclude the tour in the town of Uyuni (around 3:00 PM) with a visit to the Train Cemetery.
What's Included
Included
- 4x4 Transport in Bolivia
- Spanish-Speaking Driver/Guide
- 2 Nights Accommodation (1 Salt Hotel)
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Not Included
- National Park Fees (~250 Bolivianos)
- Border Taxes & Bolivian Visa (if required)
- Extra water & snacks
- Return transfer to San Pedro
Frequent Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Bolivia?
This depends entirely on your nationality. Citizens of South America and Western Europe generally do not need a visa. US citizens, Australians, and some others do. You must check the current Bolivian consulate requirements for your passport and arrange any required documents or cash before departure.
What is the accommodation like?
The first night is in a very basic highland shelter (dormitory style, shared bathrooms, no heating, limited electricity/hot water). The second night is in a unique Salt Hotel on the edge of the Salar, which usually offers private rooms and better facilities.
How cold does it get, and what should I pack?
Nights in the Altiplano, especially on Day 1, can drop to -15°C (5°F) during winter months. You need thermal base layers, a thick winter jacket, gloves, and a beanie. You should also bring toilet paper, a headlamp, and roughly 350-400 Bolivianos in cash for park fees, border taxes, and hot shower access.
Does this tour return to San Pedro de Atacama?
No, this standard 3-day itinerary ends in the town of Uyuni, Bolivia. If you need to return to San Pedro de Atacama, you must book the 4-Day / 3-Night version of this tour.
Excellent
Based on 142 reviews
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