Salar de Uyuni Circuit
Bolivia
Across the world's largest salt flat, a 10,582 km² mirror of white that becomes a perfect sky reflection after rain, then through volcanoes, lagoons of pink flamingos, and geysers at 5,000m into the Altiplano.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Uyuni
The dusty jumping-off town for the salt flat. The train cemetery holds rusting locomotives abandoned in the desert since the 1940s.
- Incahuasi Island
A coral island of giant cacti rising from the white salt. The best panoramic vantage point over the flat endless horizon.
- Palacio de Sal
A hotel built entirely from salt blocks: floors, walls, and furniture. Sleep inside the landscape on the edge of the salt flat.
- Laguna Colorada
A blood-red high-altitude lagoon at 4,278m, coloured by algae and minerals. Thousands of James's flamingos feed at its shallow edges.
- Sol de Mañana Geysers
Active geysers and boiling mud pools at 5,000m above sea level. Steam columns rise at sunrise into the absolute silence of the Altiplano.
- Laguna Verde
A mineral-green lake at the foot of the perfect cone of Volcán Licancabur on the Chilean border. The most surreal finale imaginable.
Where to Eat
- TikaBolivian
Offers traditional Bolivian dishes with a modern twist, using local ingredients in a cozy setting.
- Minuteman Revolutionary PizzaPizza
Serves a variety of pizzas with unique toppings, located inside the Tonito Hotel.
- LliphiInternational
Features a diverse menu including vegetarian options, known for its friendly atmosphere.
- Pizzeria Donna IsabellaItalian
Authentic Italian pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, offering a taste of Italy in Uyuni.
Things to Do
- Train CemeteryHistoric Site
Explore abandoned locomotives and railcars, remnants of Uyuni's railway history.
- Colchani Salt FactoryMuseum
Learn about salt extraction processes and purchase salt-made handicrafts.
- Tunupa VolcanoHike
Embark on a challenging hike to the summit for panoramic views of the salt flats.
- Eduardo Avaroa National ParkNational Park
Discover diverse wildlife, geysers, and colorful lagoons in this protected area.
Travel advisory
Altitudes exceeding 5,000 metres pose a serious acclimatisation risk; allow several days in Uyuni before venturing onto the circuit. Tracks across the salt flat and surrounding altiplano require a capable 4WD, and the remoteness of the volcanic lagoon section makes an experienced local guide strongly advisable for navigation and safety.