The Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia: A Marvel of Nature and Logistics
Considered one of the most extreme and remarkable sights in all of South America, if not the Earth, Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni stretches over 10,582 square kilometers across the Altiplano. This vast expanse stands as the world’s largest salt flat, a product of ancient evaporated lakes. Here, the salt crust extends to the horizon, covered in quilted, polygonal salt patterns that rise from the ground.
During certain parts of the year, nearby lakes overflow, and a thin layer of water transforms this plain into a breathtaking reflection of the sky. This otherworldly landscape is not only a lucrative salt and lithium mining site, used in the batteries of computers, smartphones, and electric cars, but it also hosts local workers harvesting these minerals. Furthermore, it houses the world’s first salt hotel and welcomes tourists who venture its roads.
Exploring the raw and desolate beauty of the Salar de Uyuni can be either an incredible experience or a logistical challenge. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your journey:
GETTING THERE The logistics and duration of your trip to the Salar de Uyuni, located between Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, depend on your starting point. Tours primarily depart from three main places:
Uyuni, Bolivia: This dusty, small town is the most popular starting point for salt flat tours, evident from Plaza Arce, the main square, bustling with tour agencies. Travelers can pre-book tours online, through tour operator offices in La Paz, or simply explore options upon arriving in Uyuni. Due to its proximity to the salt flat, day trips are easily arranged. Flights from La Paz to Uyuni can be booked through Amaszonas and BoA (lasting about an hour and costing around €120). Buses from La Paz are provided by Trans Omar and Todo Turismo (taking between 10 to 12 hours, with fares ranging from €27 to €36).
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: Agencies transport travelers to the border before handing over the journey to a Bolivian tour operator. Given the distance, this is a three-day trip.
Tupiza, Bolivia: This is the best starting point for travelers coming from Argentina. Tour operators recommend four-day trips from Tupiza, with a visit to the Salar de Uyuni on the final day.
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