Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat and a popular tourist destination in Bolivia. It’s a unique and breathtaking place that is well worth a visit. In this guide, I’ll cover 2 outdoor activities, 2 must-see places, and 1 unusual tip for travelers to Salar de Uyuni.
Outdoor activities
Salar de Uyuni is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and stargazing. In this section, we'll highlight two of the most exciting outdoor activities in the area and share some tips on how to make the most of your adventure.
Salt Flat Tour
The most popular outdoor activity in Salar de Uyuni is taking a salt flat tour. These tours typically last for a day or two and take you to some of the most beautiful and interesting sites in the area. You’ll drive across the salt flats, which are so vast that they seem to stretch on forever. You’ll see mountains in the distance, and you’ll be able to take stunning photos of the landscape.
During the tour, you’ll visit Incahuasi Island, which is a unique and beautiful place. The island is covered in giant cacti that can grow up to 12 meters tall. You can climb to the top of the island and get a panoramic view of the salt flats. The tour will also take you to see the Train Cemetery, which is an eerie and fascinating place. You’ll see the remains of old trains that were abandoned in the area in the 19th century.
Stargazing
Salar de Uyuni is a great place for stargazing. Because there is very little light pollution in the area, you’ll be able to see the night sky in all its glory. You can book a stargazing tour that will take you to a secluded spot on the salt flats where you can see the stars in all their brilliance. You’ll be able to see constellations that are only visible from the southern hemisphere, and you might even see shooting stars
Must See Places
Salar de Uyuni is home to a range of must-see attractions, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks. In this section, we'll introduce two of the most iconic and unforgettable places in the region, and give you a taste of what makes them so special.
Tunupa Volcano
Tunupa Volcano is a beautiful and iconic landmark in Salar de Uyuni. The volcano is located on the edge of the salt flats, and it towers over the landscape. You can take a tour to the base of the volcano, where you’ll be able to see rock formations and unique flora and fauna. The tour will also take you to a small village where you can learn about the indigenous Aymara people who live in the area.
Laguna Colorada
Laguna Colorada is a stunning red lake that is located near Salar de Uyuni. The lake gets its color from the red algae that live in the water. It’s a beautiful and surreal sight, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can take a tour to the lake, where you’ll be able to see flamingos and other wildlife. The lake is surrounded by mountains, which adds to its beauty.
Unusual Tip
Uncover the hidden gems of Salar de Uyuni. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.
Visit the Salt Hotel
One unusual tip for travelers to Salar de Uyuni is to visit the Salt Hotel. This hotel is built entirely out of salt, including the walls, floors, and furniture. It’s a unique and fascinating place to visit, even if you don’t plan on staying there. You can take a tour of the hotel, and you can even have lunch there. The hotel is located on the edge of the salt flats, and it offers a beautiful view of the landscape.
Hidden Wonders
Both of these places offer a unique and off-beat perspective visting Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia that are not to be missed.
Train Cemetery
The Train Cemetery is a haunting and fascinating place to visit in Salar de Uyuni. Located just outside of the town of Uyuni, the cemetery is filled with abandoned trains and railway cars that were once used to transport goods across Bolivia. The trains were left behind when the mining industry collapsed in the 1940s. Today, the rusted and decayed trains provide an eerie and surreal backdrop for visitors who want to explore the area’s history.
Colchani Village
Colchani is a small village located on the edge of Salar de Uyuni. The village is known for its salt production, and visitors can learn about the traditional methods used to harvest salt from the salt flats. The salt produced in Colchani is used for a variety of purposes, from cooking to construction. Visitors can also see how the salt is processed and packaged for sale. The village is a great place to learn about the local culture and economy.
Accommodation Suggestions
Whether you're looking for budget-friendly hostels or luxurious eco-lodges, Salar de Uyuni has a range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste. In this section, we'll share our top recommendations for places to stay in the area, from basic hostels to high-end resorts.
Budget:
Hostal Tayka de Sal is a great budget option in Salar de Uyuni. The hostel is located on the edge of the salt flats and is made entirely of salt. It’s a unique and interesting place to stay, and the rooms are clean and comfortable. The hostel offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Prices for a basic room start at around $30 per night.
Mid-range:
Hotel Palacio de Sal is a mid-range hotel located on the edge of the salt flats. The hotel is made entirely of salt, which adds to its unique charm. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel offers a range of amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and bar. Prices for a standard room start at around $120 per night.
Luxury:
Luna Salada Hotel is a luxury hotel located on the edge of the salt flats. The hotel is made entirely of salt, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the hotel offers a range of amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and bar. Prices for a standard room start at around $200 per night.
Unique:
Kachi Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located on the edge of the salt flats. The lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is designed to blend in with the natural environment. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the lodge offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and outdoor hot tubs. Prices for a standard room start at around $1,600 per night, making this a very exclusive and high-end option for those looking for a unique and luxurious experience.
In conclusion, Boston is a city with a rich history and culture, and there’s always something new to discover. From the historic sites of the Freedom Trail to the beautiful art at the Museum of Fine Arts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget to take a Duck Tour for a unique experience of the city. Happy travels!
