Things To Do
in Uyuni
Uyuni is a small town located in southwestern Bolivia, known for being the gateway to the world-famous Salar de Uyuni salt flats. The town itself offers a charming mix of traditional Andean architecture and modern amenities for visitors. Surrounding Uyuni are stunning landscapes, including volcanoes, lagoons, and desert-like terrain, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The salt flats themselves are a breathtaking sight, especially during the rainy season when they transform into a mirror-like surface reflecting the sky above.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Uyuni and check in to your accommodation. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local cafe before heading out to explore the town.
Visit the Train Graveyard, marveling at the rusting engines and carriages. This site offers great photo opportunities and a glimpse into Bolivia's rail history.
Dine at a local restaurant and indulge in Bolivian cuisine. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the town to soak up the local atmosphere.
Embark on a tour of the stunning Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. Enjoy the breathtaking views and unique landscapes.
Visit Incahuasi Island, home to giant cacti and incredible panoramic views. Discover the unique ecosystem and take memorable photos.
Watch the sunset over the salt flats, when the colors ignite the sky. Return to Uyuni for an evening of relaxation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking landscapes, including the stunning Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world.
- Unique geological features, such as lagoons, volcanoes, and the train graveyard.
- Ideal location for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
- Rich in biodiversity, with opportunities to see flamingos and other wildlife.
- Cultural experiences with local communities and traditional markets.
- High altitude (3,650 meters) can cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
- Limited accessibility and infrastructure, which can make travel challenging.
- Harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and seasonal rainfall.
- Remote location, requiring significant travel time from major cities.
- Economic challenges and limited tourist facilities may affect visitor comfort.
Best Activities in Uyuni
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the largest salt flat in the world, known for its stunning reflections and surreal landscapes. You can take a jeep tour, hike, or even go cycling on the salt flats.
Embark on a trekking adventure in the surrounding Andean landscapes, where you can encounter llamas and alpacas, and witness the beautiful scenery.
Experience the breathtaking night sky in Uyuni, which offers a perfect setting for stargazing and capturing stunning astrophotography images.
Tours
Uncover the best of Uyuni with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Uyuni
Visit one of these nice places.
The largest salt flat in the world with stunning reflections and expansive white landscapes.
A rocky outcrop in the middle of the salt flats, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A graveyard of old train carriages, providing an eerie and unique photography opportunity.
A majestic volcano offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
A small village near the salt flats, providing insights into local customs and traditions.
Food in Uyuni
Uyuni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pastry filled with a mixture of meats, potatoes, peas, and a slightly spicy broth. Best enjoyed at local bakeries such as Panaderia Magica.
Must-Try!
A satisfying dish featuring bite-sized pieces of beef, sausage, peppers, onions, and potatoes, all stir-fried together. La Cueva restaurant is known for its delicious Pique Macho.
A nourishing soup made with quinoa, vegetables, and often accompanied by cheese. La Taverne is a popular spot to savor this wholesome dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Uyuni better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Uyuni Street Market bustles with activity and offers a plethora of street food options, including freshly grilled anticuchos (marinated meat skewers) and tucumanas (deep-fried pastries filled with savory meats or cheese).
This lively market features a wide array of local produce, dried meats, and freshly prepared street food. Don't miss trying salteñas and empanadas from the various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Uyuni and the surrounding areas, it is important to show respect for Pachamama, the Andean earth mother goddess. This can be demonstrated by asking for permission before taking photos or participating in cultural ceremonies, and showing consideration for the environment.
In Uyuni, it is considered respectful to refrain from public displays of affection, as this is not the cultural norm in this region. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of local customs and to act accordingly.
When interacting with indigenous communities in and around Uyuni, it is important to show courtesy and respect. This includes being mindful of local traditions and customs, and seeking permission before entering sacred sites or participating in traditional activities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Uyuni with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Uyuni
Ensure a smooth experience
In Uyuni, Bolivia, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes, and a small tip for hotel staff and tour guides is also appreciated.
In Uyuni, Bolivia, cash is the preferred method of payment, especially in smaller establishments. Some hotels and tour agencies may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have some cash on hand. ATMs are available in the town, but it's recommended to carry enough cash for daily expenses, as ATMs may not always be reliable.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Uyuni.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Uyuni due to clear skies and dry weather. Ideal for taking the iconic perspective photos on the salt flats.
During this time, the salt flats may be covered by a thin layer of water, creating a stunning reflective surface. However, travel may be more challenging due to occasional flooding.
Transitional period between the dry and rainy season. Offers a mix of both dry and wet conditions, making it a unique time to visit.
Uyuni at Night
Hiking in Uyuni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The world's largest salt flat offers stunning landscapes and unique hiking opportunities around the salt formations, especially at Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti.
An iconic volcano near Uyuni that features numerous hiking trails. Ascend to the summit for breathtaking views of the Salar and surrounding mountains.
A beautiful canyon located not far from Uyuni, offering several hiking routes showcasing dramatic rock formations and stunning natural scenery.
Located within the Salar de Uyuni, this island is famous for its giant cacti and provides hiking trails for exploring the unique landscape and spectacular views.
A small town on the edge of the salt flats with access to various trails and a chance to learn about salt harvesting while enjoying the natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Uyuni through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Uyuni by plane.
Located in Cochabamba, approximately 206 km from Uyuni, this airport serves domestic and some international flights.
Situated in La Paz, around 500 km from Uyuni, this is the main international airport serving the capital city of Bolivia.
Located in Santa Cruz, about 640 km from Uyuni, this airport is one of the busiest in Bolivia and offers numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Uyuni consists of indigenous groups, primarily the Aymara and Quechua communities, who maintain their cultural traditions.
Mestizos, individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, form a significant demographic group in Uyuni, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
There is a smaller population of descendants from European settlers, primarily of Spanish descent, who have historically influenced the region's culture and economy.
This category includes various other ethnic groups, encompassing immigrants and expatriates from different countries, although they make up a minor portion of the population.
The Soul of Uyuni
Discover the essence of Uyuni through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Uyuni, as it is throughout Bolivia. Local teams and leagues engage players of all ages in both competitive matches and casual games.
Due to the unique terrain and scenic views around Uyuni, cycling is a popular activity, with many locals and tourists enjoying both road cycling and mountain biking.
Volleyball is commonly played in various public spaces and schools. It is especially popular among youth and is often played in recreational leagues.
Basketball has a growing presence in Uyuni, with basketball courts available and local competitions contributing to its popularity within the community.
Activities like 'Sapo' (a traditional throwing game) and other indigenous sports are practiced by some locals, representing cultural heritage and community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uyuni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bolivian cuisine heavily features meat, several restaurants and cafes in Uyuni, such as Cafe Libertad, offer vegetarian and vegan options, including quinoa-based dishes, salads, and fresh fruit desserts.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find gluten-free alternatives at select eateries in Uyuni. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with the staff to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Uyuni with these cultural adventures.
