SalarUyuni.cl


Questions? Contact GreatChile
+56 223 347 802WhatsAppreservas@greatchile.com

  • Experiences

  • Hostal

  • Transportation

  • Guide

Experience one of the most spectacular journeys across the altiplano on this 4-day, 3-night program from San Pedro de Atacama, travelling in 4x4 vehicles through some of Bolivia's most surprising landscapes all the way to the extraordinary Salar de Uyuni, the largest continuous salt flat in the world

During the expedition you'll get to know the Eduardo Abaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, with emblematic places such as Laguna Blanca, Laguna Verde, the Dalí Desert, the Polques Hot Springs, the Sol de Mañana geysers and Laguna Colorada. The adventure continues along a route of striking landscapes and natural formations, visiting Tomas Lakha and its rock paintings, El Camello, Italia Perdida, Laguna Vinto and the Anaconda and Sora canyons.

The great protagonist of the trip will be the Salar de Uyuni, where you'll travel across its immense white horizon and discover attractions such as Isla Incahuasi, the Ojos del Salar, the Dakar Monument, the Plaza de las Banderas, Colchani and the Train Cemetery.

Depending on the time of year, you'll be able to enjoy the vast white surfaces and geometric formations of the dry season, or the famous mirror effect that appears when the salt flat is covered by a thin layer of water.

An adventure experience designed for those who want to discover Uyuni and the Bolivian altiplano in an authentic way and at an accessible price, using simple backpacker-style accommodation and returning to San Pedro de Atacama at the end of the program.

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Transport: Shared 4x4 vehicle

Day 1: Altiplano Lagoons and VolcanoesActivity 1 of 9

Location data is only shown as a references and may differ from reality.

Physical Demand
Medium
Excursion of medium to medium-high physical demand due to the extreme altitude of the route, which exceeds 4,500 metres above sea level in several sections. Although the walks are generally short, the altitude, the cold, the wind and the long travel days can cause tiredness, fatigue or headaches. We recommend doing this program after several days of acclimatisation in San Pedro de Atacama.
Experience
For Everyone
No previous experience needed.

Day 1: Altiplano Lagoons and Volcanoes

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Pickup in San Pedro de Atacama

Between 6:30 and 7:00 hrs the adventure begins with a pickup at your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama and a transfer toward the border with Bolivia.

Gate arch reading "Aduana Nacional de Bolivia – Apacheta Hito Cajones" over a dirt road with an SUV crossing into Bolivia's
Border crossing – Hito Cajón

We arrive at Hito Cajón, at the foot of the Andes mountain range. After completing immigration procedures, we switch to the 4x4 vehicle that will accompany us across the Bolivian altiplano.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Laguna Blanca

Our first great postcard of Bolivia. A lagoon of pale tones surrounded by volcanoes and open landscapes, at more than 4,000 metres of altitude.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Laguna Verde

At the foot of the towering Licancabur volcano we discover one of the most emblematic lagoons of the altiplano, known for the surprising tones it can take on depending on the light and the wind.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Dalí Desert

We cross a landscape of mountains, rocks and wide plains that seems lifted from a surrealist painting. One of the most singular settings along the whole route.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Polques hot springs

Time to enjoy a soak in natural hot springs, surrounded by the immensity of the altiplano. A perfect moment to relax before continuing the expedition.

Steam venting from geothermal fumaroles across a barren high-altitude volcanic landscape at Sol de Mañana, Bolivia
Sol de Mañana Geysers

We visit one of the most striking geothermal areas in Bolivia, with fumaroles, steam and mud pools in constant activity.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Laguna Colorada

We close the day facing one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Eduardo Abaroa Reserve: a lagoon of intense reddish tones where flamingos are commonly seen.

Small Andean village with low buildings, dramatic rocky cliffs, and mountains under a clear blue sky
Accommodation at Hostal Backpackers – Villa Mar

We end the day in Villa Mar, where we rest in a backpacker-style hostel, simple and welcoming, ideal for recovering energy before continuing the adventure across the Bolivian altiplano.

Day 2: Andean Deserts and Lagoons

Ancient red ochre pictographs depicting human figures and animals painted on a cracked sandstone rock surface.
Tomas Lakha – Rock Paintings

After breakfast at the hostel we head to Tomas Lakha, where we see ancient pre-Inca rock paintings associated with the Quechua culture.

Camel-shaped rock formation in a high-altitude desert landscape, with a person sitting on top and barren hills behind.
El Camello

We continue our journey visiting this striking volcanic rock formation, naturally shaped into a singular appearance that recalls a camel.

Aerial view of eroded red rock ruins at Italia Perdida, Bolivia, with two small SUVs parked nearby and Andean plains beyond
Italia Perdida

We visit Italia Perdida, a fascinating set of rock formations that looks like a true petrified city. A surprising landscape where the natural shapes invite you to play with your imagination.

Flamingos wading at Laguna Vinto's salt-crusted shores with snow-capped Andean peaks under a vivid blue sky
Laguna Vinto

Our next stop is Laguna Vinto, a beautiful altiplano landscape where it is possible to watch Andean flamingos in their natural setting.

Aerial view of Cañon Anaconda with a winding green river cutting through arid rocky desert landscape and sandstone cliffs
Anaconda Canyon

We continue toward the impressive Anaconda Canyon, one of the most singular landscapes on this route and where, with some luck, you can spot the Andean condor.

Llamas and alpacas grazing near a reflective wetland at Caños de Sora, with red rock cliffs under a blue sky
Sora Canyon

The route continues to Sora Canyon, surrounded by altiplano landscapes and areas where llamas and other camelids are commonly seen.

Aerial view of Colcha K village in Bolivia, nestled between arid hills with a river valley and flat saltplain in the
Night at a Salt Hostel

We end the day with a very special experience: sleeping in accommodation built using salt blocks, right in the setting of the Uyuni Salt Flat.

Day 3: The Great Uyuni Salt Flat

Vasta planície branca do Salar de Uyuni com padrões hexagonais de sal, montanhas ao fundo e céu azul com nuvens.
Uyuni Salt Flat

The most awaited moment of the trip has arrived. We enter the largest salt flat in the world to travel across a seemingly endless white horizon, one of the most extraordinary natural landscapes in South America.

Isla Incahuasi covered in tall cacti overlooking the vast white Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia under cloudy skies
Incahuasi Island

In the middle of the salt flat rises this surprising island covered in giant cacti. From its surroundings you get some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Uyuni.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Ojos del Salar

We visit small natural openings in the salt crust where underground water surfaces, letting us observe up close the particular formation of the salt flat.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Dakar Monument and Plaza de las Banderas

We visit the iconic Dakar Monument and the colourful Plaza de las Banderas, two of the most recognisable postcards of the Uyuni Salt Flat, located next to the former Playa Blanca Salt Hotel.

4WD vehicles parked along a dusty road beside the Colchani artisan market stalls under a clear blue sky
Village of Colchani

We visit this small village located at the gateway to the salt flat, known for its tradition linked to salt extraction and its local handicrafts market.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Train Cemetery

Old locomotives and wagons rest in the middle of the desert, creating one of the most curious and photogenic settings in Uyuni.

Yellow clock tower and pink colonial building on a sunny plaza in Uyuni, Bolivia, with pedestrians and vehicles nearby
Uyuni

We arrive at the town of Uyuni, the main gateway to the salt flat and the northernmost point of our journey.

Small Andean village with low buildings, dramatic rocky cliffs, and mountains under a clear blue sky
Return to Villa Mar and Backpackers accommodation

In the afternoon we head back to Villa Mar, where we rest in a backpacker-style hostel before our last day on the way to San Pedro de Atacama.

Day 4: Return to San Pedro

Small Andean village with low buildings, dramatic rocky cliffs, and mountains under a clear blue sky
Departure from Villa Mar

We start early, around 6:00 hrs, crossing once again the impressive landscapes of the Bolivian altiplano on the way to the border.

Gate arch reading "Aduana Nacional de Bolivia – Apacheta Hito Cajones" over a dirt road with an SUV crossing into Bolivia's
Hito Cajón – Bolivia/Chile Border

We arrive at Hito Cajón to complete immigration procedures and change vehicles to continue our trip into Chile.

Uyuni Backpackers Classic
Arrival in San Pedro de Atacama

We descend from the mountain range to San Pedro de Atacama, where this four-day adventure through some of the most extraordinary landscapes of Bolivia comes to an end. Estimated arrival around 13:00 hrs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program starts in San Pedro de Atacama with a transfer to the border between Chile and Bolivia.

Depending on the itinerary and weather conditions, the usual stops are:

  • Laguna Verde
  • Laguna Blanca
  • Laguna Colorada
  • Siloli Desert
  • Árbol de Piedra (Stone Tree)
  • Sol de Mañana Geysers
  • Altiplanic hot springs
  • Salar de Uyuni
  • Incahuasi Island or similar

The Salar de Uyuni can be visited all year round:

Dry season (April to November): completely white landscapes and access to more sectors of the salt flat.

Wet season (December to March): the chance to see the famous mirror effect.

Yes. Temperatures can drop below zero at night and in the early morning, especially in winter (May to August) and in the higher-altitude areas. For this reason, we recommend bringing <strong"194""232">warm clothing and dressing in layers, which makes it easy to adapt to the temperature changes along the route.

Yes. Since the route reaches altitudes above 3,000 and 4,000 meters above sea level, we recommend staying at least a couple of days in San Pedro de Atacama before starting the program, in order to allow proper acclimatization to the altitude.

Reviews

Roger de Aug 22, 2024

"Salt-Hotel and organization were good. Negative: first hotel was very cold and sleeping bag was too short."

Included

  • Transfers
    In Chile with a van and in Bolivia with a 4x4 vehicle
  • Driver (only spanish speaking)
    Serves as coordinator during the trip
  • Accommodations according to program
  • Expert advice and coordination
    Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls.
  • Booking Fee – Reservation Management
    Included in the final price. This fee covers the administrative expenses associated with managing and confirming the reservation, processing payments, and coordinating the service with local operators.

Not Included

  • Visas and visa processing if required
  • Guide/Translator
    It can be requested for an additional cost for the group.
  • Tickets to parks and museums
    Park tickets are subject to change without prior notice, so it is recommended to reconfirm before leaving for the tours.
  • Medical, accident or travel insurance
  • Medical, accident or travel insurance

General Conditions

Recommended minimum age: 12 years

Itinerary and weather
The itinerary may be modified without prior notice due to weather conditions, road blockades or other force majeure situations.

During the rainy season (January to April) the salt flat may be covered with water, which makes it impossible to cross as in the dry season. In that case the program is adapted, which may include staying overnight in the city of Uyuni and visiting the salt flat as far as conditions allow.

Altitude and health
This trip takes place at altitudes above 3,650 m.a.s.l., and can reach more than 4,300 m.a.s.l.

We recommend:

  • Acclimatising beforehand above 2,000 m.a.s.l.
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Bringing medication for altitude sickness

Accommodation and services
The route runs through remote areas, so services are basic.

  • Simple lodgings with shared rooms (double or triple)
  • Limited electricity and water
  • Showers available only on the second night (may carry an additional cost)

In winter (June–July) temperatures can drop to –15°C, so very warm clothing is recommended.

Transport
Transfers are made in 4x4 vehicles (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar).
Due to the terrain, occasional breakdowns can happen, and they are resolved by the drivers.

The driver also acts as the local Spanish-speaking guide.
English-speaking guide available on private service.

Commercial Conditions

Cancellation Policies

  • Cancellations with 7 days or more before the service date: 90% refund.
  • Cancellations with 6 days or less before the service date are not eligible for a refund.

Other Conditions

  • The company may modify or cancel excursions due to force majeure.
  • Passengers must respect the times indicated by the guide.
  • No-show or late arrival means total loss of the service.
  • The passenger is responsible for their own state of health to take part in the tour.
  • The company is not responsible for loss of personal belongings.
  • Park and museum entrance fees are not included, unless explicitly stated.
  • Rates and conditions subject to change without prior notice.

Our apply on everything not mentioned before.

Other services you might like

Programs & Tours

Photographer standing on the reflective Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia, sky and clouds mirrored on the wet surface
Uyuni Classic Comfort

4 days / 3 nights (round trip)

Discover the Uyuni Salt Flat and the most striking landscapes of the Bolivian altiplano on a 4-day, 3-night expedition from San Pedro de Atacama, travelling in 4x4 vehicles and enjoying a format with greater comfort and privacy.

Hostal Transportation Guide
per person, from
US$ 520
Three travelers posing beside a roof-rack-loaded 4WD on the vast white Uyuni Salt Flat under a vivid blue sky
Uyuni Backpackers One Way

3 days / 2 nights (one way)

3 days / 2 nights · San Pedro de Atacama → Salar de Uyuni → Uyuni

Hostal Transportation Guide
per person, from
US$ 295
Pink and white salt lagoon with flamingos near Uyuni, Bolivia, under a clear blue sky with a snow-capped volcano in the
Uyuni Comfort One Way

3 days / 2 nights (one way)

Cross the Bolivian altiplano from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni, combining adventure, extraordinary landscapes and a higher level of comfort.

Hostal Transportation Guide
per person, from
US$ 380
5/5 (2 reviews)
Group of tourists sitting on salt block stairs structure on the vast white Uyuni Salt Flat under bright blue sky
Luxury Uyuni

4 days / 3 nights (round trip)

Discover the Salar de Uyuni on a premium 4-day / 3-night experience from San Pedro de Atacama, designed for those who want extraordinary landscapes with more comfort, privacy and high-end services.

Hotel Transportation Guide