Things To Do
in Uyuni
Uyuni, Bolivia sits at a high-altitude crossroads on the edge of the altiplano, where vast white salt flats meet windswept desert landscapes. It serves as the gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat and a surreal mirror when rains arrive. The town blends Aymara traditions with mestizo influences, visible in markets, craft stalls, and friendly, rugged locals.
Surrounding sights range from the eerie Train Cemetery to salt processing in Colchani and viewpoints that frame some of the most otherworldly scenery on earth.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You arrive in Uyuni town early in the morning as the crisp Andean air greets you. You settle into a charming local hospedaje and stow your luggage before venturing out. The highlight is a stroll through the bustling main plaza where market stalls brim with handcrafted souvenirs and local produce.
After lunch at a family-run café, you set off to the legendary Train Cemetery on the outskirts of town. Rusting locomotives stand sentinel across a vast expanse, creating a surreal yet poignant scene. The late afternoon light casts long shadows, perfect for dramatic photographs.
Return to town to enjoy a traditional Bolivian dinner of llama steak and quinoa soup. The evening is spent sipping coca tea at a cozy café while listening to folk music. Finally, you retire early to rest for the next day's salt flat adventure.
You set off before dawn to the vast salt flats, where silence stretches to the horizon. As the first rays of sunlight kiss the crystalline surface, the landscape transforms into a boundless sea of white. The surreal mirror effect captivates you, blurring the line between earth and sky.
After a picnic lunch atop the salt, you journey to Incahuasi Island, emerging like an oasis of giant cacti. Each step reveals panoramic views of the otherworldly terrain, studded with prehistoric coral formations. You snap endless photographs as the islands loom against the endless salt horizon.
Night falls under a canopy of stars as you camp on the salt flat in a basic but comfortable salt-constructed shelter. The absence of light pollution creates a mesmerizing Milky Way display that dominates the sky. You share stories around a small fire before drifting off to the rhythmic whisper of the desert breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Soft drink or coffee | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🚌Intercity bus ticket | $10-30 |
| 🥪Street snack or sandwich | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic landscapes and surreal photography opportunities
- Compact town with approachable services and tour operators
- Altitude and rapid weather changes can affect comfort
- Limited nightlife and some services depend on tours
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hable más despacio, por favor" - Speak more slowly, please
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I’d like a table for two
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Soy vegetariano/a" - I am vegetarian
- "¿Puede recomendar algo sin picante?" - Can you recommend something not spicy?
Places to Visit in Uyuni
Visit one of these nice places.
The vast salt flats offer seamless reflections, a bright white horizon, and dramatic perspective lines—best at sunrise or when a light mist is present.
A rocky outcrop rising from the flats with giant cacti and panoramic views of the salt sea.
A graveyard of rusting locomotives that create atmospheric silhouettes against the flat landscape.
Observation points where salt harvesting activity meets the horizon for striking portraits.
Iconic stone sculpture in the Siloli Desert offering otherworldly silhouettes at dusk or dawn.
Food in Uyuni
Uyuni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory baked pastries filled with beef, potatoes, and olives—great for a quick breakfast or snack.
Must-Try!
A traditional Andean soup with chuño (dried potato) and vegetables, perfect for cold evenings.
Slow-cooked stews featuring local meat, potatoes, and corn.
A staple plate of quinoa or potatoes with local cheeses and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Salt-flats-adjacent market area offering fresh produce, street snacks, and salt products.
Try empanadas, roasted maize, and lightweight snacks from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask before photographing people, especially Indigenous residents; some may prefer not to be photographed.
Treat landscapes with respect; avoid wandering into private salt works without permission.
A simple hello (hola) and thanks (gracias) go a long way; show courtesy in all interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Uyuni
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping guides and drivers is common; 5–10% of tour cost or a small per-day amount is appreciated.
Cash (Bolivianos or USD) is widely accepted; cards are less reliable in remote areas and some tours. Bring smaller bills for tips and purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr bring the wet season; some areas can be flooded, creating mirror-like reflections. Pack waterproof gear, protect cameras from moisture, and be mindful of muddy roads.
May–Oct is dry, windy, and cold; clear skies make for excellent stargazing, but nights are frigid. Layer up and use sunscreen, as UV exposure is strong at altitude.
Uyuni at Night
Hiking in Uyuni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike among giant cacti with panoramic views over the salt flats.
Short hikes through the Siloli Desert to the Árbol de Piedra rock formation; best at sunrise or sunset.
Easy loop with flamingos, volcanic backdrop, and high-altitude scenery.
Airports
How to reach Uyuni by plane.
A small airport serving domestic flights; many travelers connect here to begin salt-flat tours.
Major international hub used for onward travel to other parts of Bolivia or neighboring countries; often used to rejoin tours after reaching La Paz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
An Indigenous community with a strong cultural presence and language; visible in markets, crafts, and daily life.
A mix of Indigenous and European ancestry common in the town and surrounding villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Bolivia; casual games and watching matches are common in towns like Uyuni.
Popular in the surrounding altiplano and desert landscapes; guides can arrange safe routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uyuni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; emphasize fresh vegetables, cheeses, quinoa, and potatoes. If unsure, request 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and inquire about the sauces.