Uyuni Salt Flat, Red Lagoon & Deserts: 3D / 2N Expedition

Destinations

Bolivia

Activity

Tour duration

3 days/2 nights

Group size

Up to 6 Pax per vehicle

STARTING / ENDING TIME

10:30, 1D - 19:00, 3D

Difficulty

Level 4: Challenging

Travel with purpose

Support a Community

Through this adventure, you will be helping us achieve our goal of supporting the community of Santiago de Agencha in Uyuni.

Explore the most surrealistic place of our planet in the heart of South America, capture unique moments creating fun scenes within the white salt flat, where all things are put into perspective, travel through the charming and stunning desert landscapes, multicolored lakes with flamingos, an incredible off-road exploration, visit small villages in the desert to share with the locals in an immersive cultural experience, Enjoy the sunset in the vast Bolivian sky from one of the less traveled points, pass a night in a hotel made entirely with salt bricks.

If you are looking for an authentic experience in the Andes of Bolivia, this is the perfect and genuine adventure for you.

  • Discover the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest salt flat in the world in Bolivia, famous for its vast white landscape and breathtaking starry skies.
  • Visit the Cañapa, Hedionda, and Honda lagoons, known for their colorful waters and for being home to Andean flamingos.
  • Venture into the Siloli Desert, famous for its unique rock formations and impressive arid landscapes in the Andes.
  • Explore the Eduardo Avaroa National Andean Fauna Reserve and its iconic Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), where you can observe Andean flamingos surrounded by a stunning high-altitude landscape.
  • Explore the Sol de Mañana geysers, with their bubbling mud pools and volcanic fumaroles, and relax in the Polques hot springs surrounded by spectacular Andean scenery.

Uyuni Salt Flat, Red Lagoon & Deserts: 3D / 2N Expedition

From

$289 USD

Per person

From

$1350 USD

Per tour

Customize your trip

Get in Touch

We’d love to hear from you and learn about your plans to explore Bolivia.

DESTINATIONS

Bolivia

CITY

Uyuni

TOUR TYPE

Shared group

Activity

Road 4x4 Experiences

TRAVEL STYLE

Standard

TOURISM CATEGORIES

Nature

GROUP SIZE

Up to 6 Pax per vehicle

DEPARTURES

Daily

TOUR DURATION

3 days / 2 nights

STARTING / ENDING TIME

10:30, 1D - 19:00, 3D

TRANSPORT

4x4 vehicle / jeeps

START CITY

Uyuni

TOUR ENDS CITY

Uyuni or Santiago de Atacama

DIFFICULT LEVEL

Level 4: Challenging

PICK-UP

At your hotel

DROP-OFF

At your hotel

ACCOMMODATION

Included

MEALS

Included

GUIDE

Guided, Driver Guide

LIVE TOUR GUIDE

EN, ES

ATRACTIONS FEE

Included

PAYMENT METHOD

VISA

UYUNI SALT FLAT, RED LAGOON & DESERTS: 3D / 2N EXPEDITION

DAY 1: UYUNI CITY – COLCHA K
Our journey begins in Uyuni, where we will immerse ourselves in Bolivia’s railway history with a visit to the Train Cemetery, a nostalgic site filled with abandoned locomotives that tell the story of the region’s industrial past. We will then head to the community of Colchani, where locals will introduce us to the traditional process of salt extraction and refinement, a practice that has been passed down for generations.

As we venture into the vast Uyuni Salt Flats, we will stop at the Ojos del Salar, bubbling saltwater springs that emerge from the depths of the flats. Our next stops include the Dakar Monument and the Salt Pyramids, where the endless white expanse offers the perfect setting for unique and creative photographs.

At midday, we will enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the salt flats, surrounded by an infinite horizon. Afterward, we will explore Incahuasi Island, an astonishing ecosystem in the middle of the desert, home to towering cacti that reach over 10 meters in height. To end this magical day, we will witness a breathtaking sunset over the Uyuni Salt Flats, where the sky and land merge in an endless reflection. We will then conclude our day in the village of Colcha K, where we will spend the night.

Meals Included: Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Colcha K or similar

DAY 2: COLCHA K – HUAYLLAJARA
Early in the morning, we will resume our journey towards the Ollagüe Volcano viewpoint, offering a stunning view of this active Andean giant. Our route will take us to the mesmerizing Cañapa, Hedionda, and Honda Lagoons, where flocks of pink flamingos create an unforgettable natural spectacle. In this serene high-altitude setting, we will enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the breathtaking landscape.

In the afternoon, we will cross the Siloli Desert, a vast expanse of sand and rock formations shaped by the relentless wind. We will stop at the iconic Stone Tree, a naturally sculpted rock that defies gravity. Finally, we will arrive at the famous Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), a striking crimson-hued body of water that serves as a sanctuary for thousands of Andean flamingos. As night falls, we will head to the remote village of Huayllajara for a well-deserved rest.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Huayllajara

DAY 3: HUAYLLAJARA – UYUNI CITY
Before dawn, we will visit the Sol de la Mañana Geysers, a geothermal wonder where fumaroles and boiling mud pools remind us of the Earth’s raw power. We will then stop at the Polques Hot Springs, where travelers can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while admiring the surrounding Andean scenery.

Our journey continues towards the breathtaking Green Lagoon, a stunning emerald-colored lake at the foot of the majestic Licancabur Volcano. Along the way, we will pass through the surreal Salvador Dalí Desert, a landscape that seems to have been taken straight out of a painting by the renowned artist.

After enjoying lunch en route, we will begin our return to Uyuni. Travelers also have the option to continue their journey towards San Pedro de Atacama in Chile.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch

Note:
During the rainy season (December–March), access to Incahuasi Island may be restricted due to flooding, as vehicles cannot traverse the water-covered salt flats. However, this natural phenomenon enhances the landscape, creating the mesmerizing mirror effect, where the flats perfectly reflect the sky—a breathtaking sight and an unmissable opportunity for stunning photography.

Our tour officially end in Uyuni city, but for travelers continuing to Chile, we offer an optional transfer from the Bolivia border to San Pedro de Atacama. This service ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey across the border, allowing you to seamlessly continue your adventure. 

● Nomadex local guide
● Pick-up at your hotel in Uyuni city
● Transportation in a 4×4 all-terrain vehicle for up to 6 travelers.
● Entrance tickets to all mentioned attractions.
● 02 Breakfast
● 03 Picnic Lunch
● 02 Dinner
● 2 night accommodation in hotel Colcha K and Huayllajara
● Waterproof wellies to stay dry while enjoying the mirror effect
● First aid kit for a safe and worry-free experience.

● Meals and beverages, unless specified in the inclusions
● Airfare or bus transportation to Uyuni city
● Travel insurance (refer to our booking conditions)
● Personal expenses, including tips and any additional costs

  • Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the intense salt flat reflections.
  • Comfortable outdoor clothing – Dress in breathable layers for all-day comfort.
  • Warm layers – Bring a jacket, fleece, gloves, scarf, and hat for chilly nights; thermal clothing is recommended if possible.
  • Sun hat & warm hat – A wide-brimmed hat for sunny days and a beanie for cold weather.
  • Sunscreen & lip balm – Shield your skin from the strong high-altitude sun.
  • Windbreaker & rain poncho (December – April) – Essential during the rainy season to stay dry and protected.
  • Camera or smartphone – Capture the magic of Uyuni’s surreal landscapes.
  • Snacks & water – Stay energized during your adventure (optional but recommended).
  • Medications – Bring any personal medication you may need, including altitude sickness pills if necessary.
  • Cash in Bolivian currency (BOB) – Handy for souvenirs, snacks, and small expenses.
  • Extra pair of socks – Useful for wearing with rain boots / waterproof wellies.

Transportation

  • Bus ticket La Paz → Uyuni: $55 USD per person
  • Bus ticket Uyuni → La Paz: $55 USD per person

Drop-off

  • San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: $25 USD per person

When is the best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats?
The Uyuni Salt Flats can be visited year-round, but if you want to travel during the best season, we recommend visiting between May and November. These months are dry, making them ideal for various activities and for exploring the most important attractions in Uyuni.

What important details should I know about this experience?

This experience is offered as a shared service, meaning the vehicle will be shared with other travelers, up to a maximum of 15 passengers. All travelers will follow the same itinerary. If you prefer a private tour, please contact us for pricing at info@nomadex.com.

To ensure the itinerary runs smoothly, there is a maximum waiting time of 15 minutes before departure.

Seats in the vehicle are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Travelers must return in the same seat occupied at the start of the tour.

How far in advance should I book my tour?
You can book up to 48 hours before the tour start date, subject to availability (if you are already in Uyuni). However, if you are traveling from a neighboring country or anywhere else in the world, we recommend booking at least 30 days in advance, or 2 months ahead if you are traveling during Uyuni’s high season.

Do I need to bring identification for the experience?
Yes, all participants must carry a valid ID, Foreign Resident Card, or Passport during the tour. Entrance tickets can only be purchased in person on the same day of the tour, and a valid ID is required at the ticket office of each attraction.

Don’t forget to review our full Booking Terms & Conditions.

Day 1: Uyuni Salt Flat

Our adventure begins in Uyuni City with a visit to the Train Cemetery, a historic site where abandoned locomotives preserve the legacy of Bolivia's railway history. We then continue to the Colchani Community, where you'll learn about the traditional salt extraction and processing methods that have been passed down through generations.

As we enter the vast Uyuni Salt Flats, we will visit the Ojos del Salar, natural saltwater springs that emerge from beneath the salt crust. We will then continue to the Dakar Monument, Flags Square (Plaza de Banderas), and the Playa Blanca Salt Hotel, the first hotel built entirely from salt blocks within the Uyuni Salt Flats.

At midday, we will enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the endless white landscape of the salt flats. After lunch, we'll have a fun perspective photography session, taking advantage of the unique scenery to create incredible optical illusion photos. Later, we will visit Incahuasi Island during the dry season, or the Salt Monuments during the rainy season, depending on the conditions of the salt flats.

To end the day, we will witness a spectacular sunset over the Uyuni Salt Flats, where the sky and the salt merge into an unforgettable landscape. Finally, we will travel to the Colcha K or Santiago de Agencha Community, where we will spend the night.

Meals Included: Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Colcha K or Santiago de Agencha Community

Day 2: Lagoons & Landscapes

After breakfast, we begin our journey with a photo stop at the historic Antofagasta Railway, an iconic railway line that crosses the Bolivian Altiplano. We then continue to the Ollagüe Volcano viewpoint, where you can admire one of the region’s most impressive active volcanoes. Our adventure continues with visits to Cañapa, Hedionda, and Honda Lagoons, renowned for their colorful landscapes and large populations of Andean flamingos.

After enjoying a picnic lunch, we will continue our journey across the spectacular Siloli Desert, one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Bolivian Altiplano. Along the way, we may spot Andean vizcachas in their natural habitat and visit the iconic Stone Tree (Árbol de Piedra), a remarkable rock formation sculpted by centuries of wind erosion.

Our final stop will be the Eduardo Avaroa National Andean Fauna Reserve, where we will visit the stunning Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), famous for its vivid red waters and for being home to thousands of Andean flamingos. At the end of the day, we will arrive at the community of Huayllajara, where we will spend the night.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Huayllajara

Day 3: Geysers & Hot Springs

After breakfast, we will depart early from the community of Huayllajara and head to the impressive Sol de Mañana Geysers, a fascinating geothermal field of steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools that showcase the volcanic power of the Andes.

We will then continue to the Polques Hot Springs, where those who wish can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in the breathtaking Andean scenery. Our journey continues across the surreal Salvador Dalí Desert, whose striking landscapes are said to resemble the paintings of the famous surrealist artist.

Next, we will visit the beautiful Green Lagoon (Laguna Verde), located at the foot of the majestic Licancabur Volcano, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in southwestern Bolivia.

After a picnic lunch in the community of Villa Mar, we will begin our journey back to Uyuni, stopping at the spectacular Valley of the Rocks (Valle de las Rocas), renowned for its extraordinary rock formations, and later visiting the historic community of San Cristóbal, home to its beautiful colonial church. We will arrive in Uyuni City in the evening, where our unforgettable adventure comes to an end.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch

Itinerary Notes

Mirror Effect: During the dry season (approximately from July to December), this experience is not available, as the salt flats conditions do not allow the mirror effect to be visible.

Incahuasi Island Access: During the rainy season (December to March), access to Incahuasi Island may be restricted due to high water levels. In this case, we will visit the Salt Monuments instead, while enjoying the spectacular mirror effect, where the salt flats perfectly reflect the sky, creating an unforgettable setting for photography.

Optional Transfer to Chile: Our tour officially ends in Uyuni City. For travelers continuing to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, we offer an optional transfer from the Bolivia–Chile border for an additional USD 25 per person. This service ensures a smooth and hassle-free border crossing, allowing you to continue your journey with ease.

Day 1: Uyuni Salt Flat

10:20 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. Hotel pick-up
10:50 a.m. Visit to the Train Cemetery.
11:30 a.m. Visit to the Colchani Community (salt processing).
12:15 p.m. Exploration of the Salt Flats Eyes (Ojos del Salar).
12:30 p.m. Visit to the Dakar Monument.
12:45 p.m. Visit to Flags Square (Plaza de Banderas)
01:00 p.m. Visit to Playa Blanca Salt Hotel
01:15 p.m. Picnic lunch at the Uyuni Salt Flats.
02:30 p.m. Perspective photography experience at the Uyuni Salt Flats.
03:30 p.m. Visit to Incahuasi Island during the dry season or Salt Monuments during the rainy season.
05:00 p.m. Sunset at the Salar de Uyuni.
07:30 p.m. Arrival in Santigo de Agencha Community.

Day 2: Lagoons & Landscapes

06:30 a.m. Breakfast
07:00 a.m. Departure from Santiago de Agencha Community.
08:30 a.m. Photo stop at the Antofagasta Railway tracks.
09:30 a.m. Ollagüe Volcano viewpoint.
11:00 a.m. Visit to Cañapa Lagoon.
12:00 p.m. Visit to Hedionda Lagoon.
01:00 p.m. Picnic lunch.
02:30 p.m. Visit to Honda Lagoon.
03:00 p.m. Crossing the Siloli Desert.
04:00 p.m. Wildlife observation (Andean vizcachas).
04:30 p.m. Stone Tree (Árbol de Piedra).
05:30 p.m. Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve & Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada).
06:30 p.m. Arrival at Huayllajara Community.

Day 3: Geysers & Hot Springs

05:00 a.m. Breakfast.
05:30 a.m. Departure from Huayllajara Community.
06:00 a.m. Visit to the Sol de la Mañana Geysers.
07:30 a.m. Stop at the Polques Hot Springs (optional bathing).
10:30 a.m. Crossing the Salvador Dalí Desert.
11:30 a.m. Visit to the Green Lagoon (Laguna Verde) at the foot of the Licancabur Volcano.
01:30 p.m. Picnic lunch in Villa Mar Community.
03:30 p.m. Visit to the Valley of Rocks (Valle de las Rocas).
04:30 p.m. Visit to San Cristóbal Community.
06:30 p.m. Arrival in Uyuni city.

Optional drop-off in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.

Itinerary Timing

The times indicated in the itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on the season, weather conditions, and operational factors.

Guide
  • Guide service – based on your selected booking option
Accommodation
  • 1 night at a hotel in Santiago de Agencha or similar – Night 1
  • 1 night at a hotel in Huayllajara – Night 2
Meals
  • 02 Breakfasts (Days 2 and 3)
  • 03 Picnic Lunches (Days 1, 2 and 3)
  • 02 Dinners (Days 1 and 2)
Pick-Up
  • At your hotel
  • Airport
  • Terminal
  • Nomadex Bolivia Office
Drop-Off
  • At your hotel
  • Airport
  • Terminal
  • San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Transportation
  • 4×4 Off-Road Vehicle
Entrance Fees
  • Entrance to Uyuni Salt Flats
  • Entrance to Incahuasi Island (dry season) or the Salt Monuments (rainy season)
  • Entrance to Reserva Nacional de Fauna Andina Eduardo Avaroa
  • Entrance to Polques Hot Springs
Equipment
  • Medical kit: First aid equipment, oxygen, and altitude sickness pills
Transfers at the start and end of the tour:
  • The tour does not include flights or any other transportation to the starting point or from the final point of the tour.
Tips
  • Tips are not included in the tour price.
Travel insurance
  • Travelers must have valid travel insurance.
Personal expenses
  • Personal expenses (such as meals, shopping, and other extras).
  • Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the intense salt flat reflections.
  • Comfortable outdoor clothing – Dress in breathable layers for all-day comfort.
  • Warm layers – Bring a jacket, fleece, gloves, scarf, and hat for chilly nights; thermal clothing is recommended if possible.
  • Sun hat & warm hat – A wide-brimmed hat for sunny days and a beanie for cold weather.
  • Sunscreen & lip balm – Shield your skin from the strong high-altitude sun.
  • Windbreaker & rain poncho (December – April) – Essential during the rainy season to stay dry and protected.
  • Camera or smartphone – Capture the magic of Uyuni’s surreal landscapes.
  • Snacks & water – Stay energized during your adventure (optional but recommended).
  • Medications – Bring any personal medication you may need, including altitude sickness pills if necessary.
  • Cash in Bolivian currency (BOB) – Handy for souvenirs, snacks, and small expenses.
  • Extra pair of socks – Useful for wearing with rain boots / waterproof wellies.

Transportation

  • Bus ticket La Paz → Uyuni: $55 USD per person
  • Bus ticket Uyuni → La Paz: $55 USD per person

Drop-off

  • San Pedro de Atacama, Chile: $25 USD per person
1. When is the best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats?

The Uyuni Salt Flats can be visited year-round, but if you want to travel during the best season, we recommend visiting between May and November. These months are dry, making them ideal for various activities and for exploring the most important attractions in Uyuni.

2. What important details should I know about this experience?
  • This experience is offered as a shared service, meaning the vehicle will be shared with other travelers, up to a maximum of 15 passengers. All travelers will follow the same itinerary. If you prefer a private tour, please contact us for pricing at info@nomadex.com.
  • To ensure the itinerary runs smoothly, there is a maximum waiting time of 15 minutes before departure.
  • Seats in the vehicle are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Travelers must return in the same seat occupied at the start of the tour.
3. How far in advance should I book my tour?

You can book up to 48 hours before the tour start date, subject to availability (if you are already in Uyuni). However, if you are traveling from a neighboring country or anywhere else in the world, we recommend booking at least 30 days in advance, or 2 months ahead if you are traveling during Uyuni’s high season.

4. Do I need to bring identification for the experience?

Yes, all participants must carry a valid ID, Foreign Resident Card, or Passport during the tour. Entrance tickets can only be purchased in person on the same day of the tour, and a valid ID is required at the ticket office of each attraction.

Don’t forget to review our full Booking Terms & Conditions.

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