Perú (+51) 984 851 385
Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world, is a dream destination for travelers from all over. Located in southwestern Bolivia, this unique natural landscape combines breathtaking visuals with an unforgettable cultural experience. But before you marvel at its immensity, you’re probably asking yourself: How do I get to Salar de Uyuni efficiently and hassle-free? Here you’ll find a complete guide with the best routes, transportation options, and essential tips to plan your trip.
Transportation Options to Salar de Uyuni
1. Traveling by Plane to Salar de Uyuni
One of the fastest and most convenient ways to get to Uyuni is via domestic flights. From La Paz or Santa Cruz, airlines like Amaszonas and Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) offer daily flights to Joya Andina Airport, located in the city of Uyuni.
Advantages of flying:
- Saves time, as the trip from La Paz takes approximately 1 hour.
- Ideal for those with tight schedules or seeking more comfort.
Recommendations:
Book your tickets in advance, especially during high season, and keep in mind that flights may be more expensive than other transportation options.
2. Traveling by Bus to Salar de Uyuni
Taking a bus is an affordable and popular option for travelers who want to enjoy the Andean scenery along the way. Well-known companies like Todo Turismo, Trans Omar, and Cruz del Norte operate daily routes from key cities like La Paz, Oruro, and Potosí.
Bus travel duration:
- From La Paz: between 10 and 12 hours.
- From Oruro: about 7-8 hours.
- From Potosí: approximately 6-7 hours.
Practical Tip:
If you choose to travel at night, opt for sleeper or semi-sleeper services for greater comfort, and make sure to pick companies with good reviews.
3. Train to Salar de Uyuni: What You Need to Know
The train is one of the most scenic ways to get to Uyuni. Operated by Ferroviaria Andina, this route connects the city of Oruro with Uyuni.
Schedules and services:
- The Wara Wara and Expreso del Sur trains run several times a week.
- The journey takes approximately 7 hours.
Why choose the train?
- It offers a unique and relaxing experience, perfect for enjoying the Altiplano landscape.
- The train is more comfortable for those who prefer to avoid long bus rides.
How to Get to Salar de Uyuni from Different Locations
1. How to Get to Salar de Uyuni from La Paz
If you’re starting your trip from Bolivia’s capital, you have three main options: direct flights to Uyuni, overnight buses, or a combination of bus and train via Oruro.
Recommended options:
- Flying is the fastest option (1-hour flight).
- Direct buses from La Paz are budget-friendly and save you from making additional connections.
- If you opt to take a bus to Oruro and then the train, you’ll enjoy a more varied journey.
2. How to Get to Salar de Uyuni from Peru
For travelers coming from Peru, the most common route is to cross the border at Desaguadero or Copacabana (Kasani) and head to La Paz. From there, choose between a flight, an overnight bus, or the train option via Oruro.
Extra Tip:
If you’re coming from Cusco or Puno, take advantage of the opportunity to visit Lake Titicaca before continuing to Uyuni, either via La Paz or more direct connections.
3. How to Get to Salar de Uyuni from Chile (San Pedro de Atacama)
From San Pedro de Atacama, you can take a direct tour to Uyuni in 4×4 vehicles. This three-day trip not only takes you to the salt flats but also includes stops at Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, high-altitude lagoons, and other stunning landscapes.
Recommendations for tours from Chile:
- Confirm whether the tour includes a return to San Pedro or just transportation to Uyuni.
- Pack clothes for various climates, as temperatures can vary greatly during the trip.
4. How to Get to Salar de Uyuni from Argentina
Travelers from Argentina often cross the border at La Quiaca (Villazón). From Villazón, you can take a direct train to Uyuni or travel by bus to Potosí and continue to Uyuni.
Extra Tip:
From Salta and Jujuy, some travel agencies offer packages that include transportation to Salar de Uyuni.
Best Routes to Get to Salar de Uyuni
Recommended Routes to Salar de Uyuni from Potosí. From Potosí, you can take a direct bus to Uyuni. The approximate distance is 200 km, and the trip usually takes 6-7 hours. The road, though mostly paved, offers incredible landscapes that make the time fly by.
Fastest Routes to Get to Uyuni
If you’re looking for the quickest way to get to Uyuni, flights are the best option. With just a 1-hour trip from La Paz, you can save several hours of travel time and spend more time exploring the salt flats.
Distances and Travel Times to Salar de Uyuni
- From La Paz: 550 km (~10-12 hours by bus or 1 hour by plane).
- From Oruro: 310 km (~7-8 hours by bus or train).
- From Potosí: 200 km (~6-7 hours by bus).
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Salar de Uyuni
- Book in advance: During the high season (May to October and January to March), flights and tours tend to sell out quickly.
- Carry enough cash: Although there are ATMs in Uyuni, they’re not always operational.
- Prepare for the weather: Both in the dry and rainy seasons, temperatures can be extreme.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time to visit Uyuni?
The rainy season (January-March) is ideal to see the famous mirror effect, while the dry season (May-October) makes it easier to explore.
2. How to get to Salar de Uyuni from Uyuni Airport?
Joya Andina Airport is just a few kilometers from Uyuni’s city center. You can take a taxi or transfer to your accommodation or tour starting point.
3. Is it safe to travel to Uyuni by bus?
Yes, as long as you choose reliable transportation companies and avoid traveling at night on less-known routes.
4. What transportation option is most recommended for foreign tourists?
4×4 tours departing from Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama are highly recommended, as they include expert guides and ensure safety.
5. Can I visit Uyuni on my own?
It’s possible, but it’s recommended to go with a tour to explore the most remote areas safely and efficiently.
6. How much time do you need to visit Salar de Uyuni?
A typical 1-day tour is enough to see the essentials, but 3-day tours offer a more complete experience.
Live the adventure of a lifetime and explore the majestic Salar de Uyuni with Lorenzo Expeditions! Book today and secure your spot on one of our exclusive tours, designed to help you make the most of this natural wonder. Contact us now and start planning your trip to Uyuni, where every corner will be a unique experience you’ll never forget.
