Salar de Uyuni, also known as the Bolivian Salt Flats, is one of the most phenomenal destinations we’ve ever visited. Stretching over 10,000 square kilometres, this vast expanse offers over 100 kilometres of uninterrupted white salt plains in every direction and as far as your eyes can see.
The more adventurous cross these salt flats on bicycles, their silhouettes resembling nomads chasing mirages in the distance.
Nothing like we have ever seen – what an otherworldly experience exploring the infinite white canvas.
About Bolivian Salt Flats
Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat at 10,582 square kilometres (4,086 sq mi) in area. At an elevation of 3,656 m, it is also the world’s highest salt flat. As scientists drilled through the salty crust, they discovered more than 10 layers of salt and mud; thus, proving that Salar de Uyuni was formed as a result of formation of a lake over the area and evaporation of the same, more than 10 times over. It is said that the process will continue and Uyuni will be engulfed by a lake again.
Our Experience
If you are remotely into Land Cruisers, Uyuni is heaven! Salt Flats are good too! 😉
We took a direct flight from La Paz to Uyuni. The one-hour journey, while more expensive than the overnight bus, saved us time and gave us almost an extra day to explore Uyuni.
Stepping out of the airport, I couldn’t help but smile as we were greeted by rows of Toyota Land Cruisers—from the classic 80 series to the modern 200s. Uyuni runs on Land Cruisers; they are everywhere, literally everywhere!
Our five day guided tour of Bolivia included three days in Uyuni – guide, driver, us and a 100 series Land Cruiser. We recommend visiting the salt flats as part of a tour because there are no roads or markers; it’s so easy to get lost in the vastness.
The trip from the airport to the salt flats took about an hour, with a quick stop to drop our bags at the hotel. Over the next day and a half, we explored the salt flats, learned about their fascinating history, and clicked countless photos.
At this elevation, the sun is extremely strong (UV Index of 13+) and the nights can be pretty chilly.
Make sure you carry your sun hats, sun glasses and spf 50+ sun screen for the day and some fleece/jackets and gloves for early mornings and evenings.
Itinerary
Reach Uyuni
We flew into Uyuni to save time, dropped our bags at the hotel and set out to explore the vast landscape
Dakar Monument
A monument built to commemorate the Dakar Rally coming to Bolivia
Hotel Playa Blanca
The first hotel constructed completely of salt
Plaza de las Banderas Uyuni
Flags of different nations popping out in front of the white salt flats
Incahuasi Island
A unique island in the middle of the salt flats
Photo Shoot
The most fun photo shoot ever!
Stay: Palacio de Sal
A beautiful hotel, made completely of salt, at the footsteps of the salt flats
Dakar Monument
Our first stop, about an hour away, was the Dakar Monument. Built in 2014 to celebrate the inclusion of Bolivia in the prestigious Dakar Rally, it symbolizes a proud moment for Bolivia. In 2016, Uyuni welcomed over 300,000 foreign visitors—a 20% increase compared to previous years. However, the rally moved to Saudi Arabia in 2020 and hasn’t returned to South America since. The Dakar Monument remains a symbol of economic growth and a must-visit landmark for tourists.
Hotel Playa Blanca
Just a short walk from the Dakar Monument is the Hotel Playa Blanca, the first hotel in the world constructed entirely of salt. Built in 1995, it featured 12 double rooms, a common bathroom, and no showers. While it quickly became a popular tourist attraction, it was dismantled in 2007 due to environmental mismanagement. Today, it serves as a small museum of sorts.
Plaza de las Banderas Uyuni
The Plaza de las Banderas Uyuni is easily recognizable by its rows of vibrant flagpoles bearing flags from around the world. Against the white salt flats, the colors of the flags pop, making it a very popular tourist attraction. The area is surrounded by local craft shops offering handmade goods and traditional snacks. For the best experience, visit early in the day when it’s less crowded—you’ll have uninterrupted views and plenty of time for photos.
Carry a marker with you if you want to write on the flag.
Incahuasi Island
Located in the middle of the salt flats, Incahuasi Island offers a 360-degree view of the endless white plains. A one-hour hike takes you to the top of the island, providing countless photo opportunities along the way.
The island is famous for its giant cacti, which grow at a rate of about one centimetre per year. As you ascend, you’re humbled by these cacti, many of which are hundreds, if not thousands, of years old. This is also the only spot in the salt flats where you’ll find a diverse ecosystem, including unique flora and fauna.
The island does have a well maintained restroom; however, make sure you carry some change as it is charged.
After the hike, tour guides often serve lunch in the parking area, making for a stunning and an unforgettable setting.
Photo Shoot
This, while not the highlight of the trip, was the most fun. The tour guides stop the vehicle in the middle of nowhere, lie down on the flats and ask you to get out to pose for some epic shots.
If you’re traveling with a group, the guide ensures everyone is included in the fun. Just follow their instructions, hold the pose, smile and laugh at the results.
Wear some bright colours that pop against the white background. Also, utilize the props (including dinosaurs) the guide provides.
Stay: Palacio de Sal
Inspired by the original, Palacio de Sal is made completely of salt. Made from around one million blocks of salt, everything here – walls, ceilings, floors, beds, furniture – is made from salt. Located at the footsteps of the salt flats, the hotel offers uninterrupted views of the expansive flats.
The staff was very friendly, the bar well stocked and the buffet dinner served some excellent food.
We celebrated a birthday here and the staff surprised us with a freshly baked cake!
With no light pollution, this is an ideal location for stargazing.
Tips & Mistakes to avoid
Yay or Nay
Bolivian Salt Flats are a must. Plain and simple
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