How to get to Uyuni from Argentina: A complete guide for travelers
Traveling from Argentina to the Salar de Uyuni, one of South America’s most breathtaking landscapes, is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, culture, and extreme nature. While there are no direct flights from Argentina to Uyuni, several routes combining bus, train, and plane connect different Argentine cities with this Bolivian gem. Here, we explain the most practical, economical, and popular options for getting to Uyuni from various cities in Argentina.
✈️ From Buenos Aires to Uyuni by plane (via Santa Cruz or La Paz)
- Flight Buenos Aires – Santa Cruz or La Paz (Bolivia)
Airlines such as BOA, LATAM, or Aerolíneas Argentinas offer flights from Ezeiza (EZE) to Santa Cruz (VVI) or La Paz (LPB) with a layover or connection.
Approximate duration: 5 to 8 hours (depending on layovers).
- Domestic flight to Uyuni
From La Paz or Santa Cruz, you can take a domestic flight with Amaszonas or EcoJet to Uyuni (UYU).
Duration: Approximately 1 hour from La Paz. From Santa Cruz, a layover in La Paz may be required.
✅Advantages: Fast, comfortable, and less tiring.
❌Disadvantages: May be more expensive than traveling by land.
🚌 From Salta or Jujuy to Uyuni by land (the most popular option for backpackers)
This is the most common route for independent travelers who want to enjoy the Andean scenery.
- Bus Salta/Jujuy – La Quiaca (border with Bolivia)
Several companies such as Flecha Bus, Balut, and Panamericano offer this route.
Duration: 6 to 8 hours.
- Border crossing: La Quiaca (Argentina) – Villazón (Bolivia)
You cross on foot via the international bridge.
Immigration operates between 7:00 a.m. and midnight.
The crossing is simple and direct.
- Train or bus Villazón – Uyuni
From Villazón, you can take the Tren Expreso del Sur (Southern Express Train) or Wara Wara del Sur (Southern Train) to Uyuni.
Duration: Approximately 7 to 9 hours.
Frequency: Two or three times per week.
You can also take a direct bus to Uyuni (6 to 8 hours).
✅Advantages: Affordable, stunning scenery, authentic experience.
❌ Disadvantages: Slower and may require an overnight stay en route.
🚍 From Córdoba, Mendoza, or other Argentinian cities
If you’re in other major cities like Córdoba, Rosario, or Mendoza, the trip to Uyuni requires more connections, but it’s still possible:
- Take a bus to Salta or Jujuy.
- From there, follow the route explained above: Salta/Jujuy > La Quiaca > Villazón > Uyuni.
💡 Tip: If you’re coming from Mendoza, you can also consider crossing to San Pedro de Atacama (Chile) and from there booking a 3- or 4-day tour that ends in Uyuni.
📌Useful Tips for Your Trip to Uyuni from Argentina
1) Altitude Acclimatization (Key to Enjoying the Salt Flats)
Uyuni is over 3,650 m (12,500 ft), and during the tour you may reach altitudes of over 4,000 m (14,000 ft).
- If possible, spend one night in Tupiza or one night in Uyuni before the tour.
- Avoid alcohol the night before and eat light meals (soups, rice, pasta).
- Drink water in small sips throughout the day.
- If you experience a mild headache, rest and inform your guide.
🚨 Warning Signs: Shortness of breath at rest, persistent vomiting, confusion → seek medical attention immediately.
2) What to Pack (Smart Luggage for the Border Crossing + Tour)
Essentials:
- Thermal jacket/heavy coat + fleece (nights are cold even in the dry season).
- Hat, gloves, and a buff (the wind on the Altiplano is strong).
- Sunscreen and UV sunglasses (the reflection from the salt flats burns).
- Power bank and chargers (some accommodations have limited electricity).
- Reusable water bottle and snacks (nuts, chocolate, energy bars).
- Anxiety medication and a small first-aid kit.
Realistic tip: Bring a daypack (water, camera, jacket) and a suitcase/bag for everything else.
3) Money and Payments (Don’t rely on your card)
In Uyuni and along the route:
- Bring cash (Bolivianos).
- Have small bills for food, taxis, restrooms, and purchases.
- Don’t assume there will always be an ATM or that it will be working.
- Recommendation: Exchange some money in Villazón/Tupiza and some in Uyuni.
4) Connectivity: Internet and cell service on the Altiplano
- Cell service may be intermittent during the tour.
- In small towns, Wi-Fi is sometimes only available slowly or on a schedule.
Tip: Let your family know you’ll be offline for periods of time (this avoids worry).
5) La Quiaca – Villazón Border Crossing (How to Cross Without Stress)
- The crossing is on foot, short, and easy.
- Have your ID/passport handy and be patient during peak hours.
- If you have large suitcases, consider using handcarts or taking short taxi rides (depending on availability).
Tip: Cross early to get better bus/train times.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to travel from Argentina to Uyuni?
It depends on the route you choose. By land from Jujuy, the total cost can be around USD 70–100. By plane (via La Paz), it can cost between USD 250–400.
- Is it safe to cross the border at Villazón?
Yes, the crossing is safe if done during the day. We recommend having your documents in order and avoiding traveling at night.
- What documents do I need to enter Bolivia?
Argentine citizens only need their valid national identity document (DNI) or passport. A visa is not required for tourist stays of less than 90 days.
