Explore the Vast Wonder of Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni is one of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet. This 9,000 km² (4,680 sq mi) salt desert, located at an elevation of 3,650 meters (11,970 feet) above sea level, is the largest salt flat in the world. This surreal landscape stretches to the horizon in every direction, creating a natural mirror during the rainy season and a dazzling white expanse during the dry season.
This stunning geological wonder was once part of a prehistoric salt lake that covered most of southwestern Bolivia. Over time, the lake evaporated, leaving behind a thick crust of salt. Today, this crust covers an estimated 10 billion tons of fine salt. Local
campesinos continue to harvest it using only picks and shovels, preserving traditional techniques in a place that feels like another world.
Travelers exploring
Salar de Uyuni are captivated by the stark beauty and unusual silence of this remote region. Its seemingly endless white plains make it a dream for photographers and adventurers alike. Situated in a semi-arid climate,
Salar de Uyuni receives only about 10 inches of rainfall annually. This means the landscape transforms dramatically between seasons.
During the rainy season (December to March), the salt flat becomes a shallow lake, with water covering the crust to depths of up to 25 cm. This creates a perfect mirror effect where the sky and earth blend seamlessly—a phenomenon so mesmerizing it draws thousands of visitors each year. In contrast, the dry season (April to November) exposes the polygonal patterns of salt crystals that form a striking geometric landscape.
Visitors can explore the salt flats by 4x4, stopping at iconic landmarks such as the
Isla Incahuasi, a cactus-covered island that rises from the salty expanse, offering panoramic views of the desert. You can also visit the eerie Train Cemetery just outside the town of Uyuni, where rusting locomotives from Bolivia’s past sit abandoned in the desert.
Plan your adventure with this Salar de Uyuni itinerary — visit stunning landscapes, local communities, and explore the world’s largest salt flat with expert guides.
Whether you're interested in stargazing, landscape photography, or experiencing one of South America's most unique environments,
Salar de Uyuni is an unmissable highlight. Its lunar-like surface and incredible reflections offer travelers a once-in-a-lifetime visual experience.
From its ancient origins to its present-day beauty,
Salar de Uyuni continues to inspire awe and wonder in all who venture across its shimmering terrain.
