5 Things to Know Before Visiting the Uyuni Salt flats in Bolivia

If you are planning a trip to South America, and you want to have the ultimate experience, you should definitely consider visiting the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia.

This piece of heaven is located amid the Andes in southwest Bolivia. Stretching more than 4,050 square miles of the Altiplano, it is famous for being the world’s largest salt flat, promising visitors mesmerizing landscapes that can hardly be forgotten.

The Andean pink flamingos Pink flamingos on the Bolivian salt flats. Thanks @sol_n_g for sharing your photo with us.

The South American natural wonder exists thanks to a prehistoric lake that went dry, creating a desertlike beauty. Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni can make for an incredible experience, but need some logistical experience. Plan your trip with these tips and make sure you’ll have the time of your life!

Visiting Uyuni Salt Flats 1. You should be aware of the cold weather

Before you visit Uyuni Salt Flats, you should check the weather. However, though it depends on the time of the year you plan your trip, Uyuni and the surrounding region tend to get bitterly cold.

Yes, winter is when the temperature is the lowest, but the rest of the year is also not too warm. So, to make sure the weather doesn’t ruin your beautiful experience, pack plenty of warm clothes. Also, make sure you have a hat, sunglasses, as well as sunscreen since there is no shade in this area.

2. The mirror effect is mesmerizing: When can you see it?

If you are planning your trip, you probably heard of the mirror effect. Though you can visit Uyuni Salt Flats all year round and have an amazing time, the best time for seeing the famous mirror effect is between January and March, during the wet season.

Amazing sunset in Uyuni Salt Flats. Visit the Salar during the wet season, between january and march to discover this amazing mirror effect. Thanks @bruereno for this awesome photo!

Just keep in mind that the weather is always unpredictable. So, for instance, it’s said that February is the rainiest month, but this doesn’t always happen. Also, sometimes, when it does, there can be too much rain, making parts of the salt flat inaccessible.

Read More: Best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats

3. Accommodation is basic but there are some luxury hotels

Before you visit Uyuni Salt Flats, you should find the best accommodation in the area. The truth is that most accommodation is basic, but if you do want to have a memorable escape and pamper yourself with a lavish room, there are a few luxury hotels that can offer you this possibility.

Unique Glamping Experience in Uyuni Salt flats at Kachi Lodge

For instance, if you want to stay a few meters ways from the salt flats, in a hotel that spoils its guests with comfortable, beautifully designed rooms and a spa with mesmerizing views, Palacio del Sal is a perfect choice. Meanwhile, those of you who want to give glamping a try can book a luxurious dome made available by Kachi Lodge. Of course, these are just two examples, and there are a few more options available in the area.

Read More: Where to stay in Uyuni, Salt hotels and Glamping experience

4. Choose the best way to get to the Salar de Uyuni

Located at the crux of Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, the most popular jumping-off point in the town of Uyuni in Bolivia that is very close to the salt flats. The best and safest way to get Uyuni is by booking a flight from La Paz . The flight will only tale 50 minutes, and there are both morning and night flights offered by Boa Airlines and Amaszonas.

5. You must acclimatize before a Salt Flat tour

Besides bringing warm clothes and sun protection, it is very important to properly acclimatize, before embarking on a salt flats tour. It is true that everybody adapts to altitude differently, but the town of Uyuni is more than 11,000 feet above the sea level, and during the tours, you will climb much higher. So, if you come from low altitude, consider spending a few days in Uyuni or take acclimatization medication, after you discussed this with your doctor, of course. In addition, make sure you are properly hydrated, and you eat light.

These are the five things you should know before you visit One of the Most remarkable vistas on earth. So, are you ready to start planning your trip?

Check our suggested trip: Argentine, Chilean, and Bolivian Salt Flats and Lakes: 12 Days Suggested Itinerary

We are local experts in South America and can help you with your perfect trip, contact us!

Clara Barciela ❣️⁠ Founding Partner & Director Across Argentina & South America Follow us on Instagram or facebook for more inspiration about Argentina & South America!

About us! Clara & Maria

We believe South America is one of the most unforgettable places on earth – and we want you to help you fall in love with the continent just like we have. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, we founded Across South-America to help guests experience the ‘real’ South America – without compromising on comfort. A decade later, and Across South-America is a well-known boutique travel agency crafting outstanding vacations for couples, friends and families from all over the world. Our main point of difference is that we’re local experts. South America is our backyard. . Read More Let us show you the South America we know and love. Contact us!

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