The journey begins with your arrival in Calama, a strategic point for connecting to the Altiplano and the desert. From there, the route heads towards the border and continues into Bolivia in a 4×4 vehicle, crossing the region’s most famous Andean Reserve. For the first two days, the route focuses on the “world of colors” of the Altiplano: Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca, the Dalí Desert, the Stone Tree, the vibrant Laguna Colorada with its flamingos, and the breathtaking sunrise amidst steam and hot earth at the Sol de Mañana Geysers, as well as stops at hot springs to recharge.
The third day is dedicated to the main attraction: the Salar de Uyuni, a perfect flat expanse that transforms with the seasons. During the dry season, it displays hexagonal salt patterns; during the rainy season, it creates a mirror effect, one of the most photogenic phenomena in South America. The tour concludes in Uyuni (or, depending on your itinerary, with a connecting bus/flight).
The Salar de Uyuni was formed after the evaporation of large prehistoric lakes, leaving behind an immense and remarkably flat salt flat. Besides its beauty, it has been a key resource for Andean communities for centuries and is now a natural symbol of Bolivia. The 3-day/2-night tour has become popular because it allows visitors to understand Uyuni as a “complete ecosystem”: not only the salt flat, but also the volcanic highlands, the lagoons, and the surrounding geothermal activity.
ITINERARY
Detailed Itinerary: Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from Calama
Day 1: Calama – Eduardo Avaroa Reserve – Laguna Colorada
- Departure: 6:00 a.m. from your hotel or meeting point in Calama.
- Tourist bus to the Chilean-Bolivian border (Hito Cajón) via San Pedro de Atacama.
- Immigration procedures at the border, change of transportation, and welcome by your Bolivian guide.
🏞️ Places you will visit today:
- Laguna Blanca and Laguna Verde: with the imposing backdrop of the Licancabur Volcano.
- Dalí Desert: with dreamlike landscapes that resemble surrealist paintings.
- Polques Hot Springs: free time for a relaxing soak.
- Sol de Mañana Geysers: geothermal field with fumaroles and boiling mud.
- Laguna Colorada: home to hundreds of Andean flamingos.
Day 2: Laguna Colorada – Salar de Chiguana – San Juan
- Departure: After breakfast, approximately 8:00 a.m.
🗺️ Today’s attractions:
- Stone Tree: a curious rock formation in the middle of the Siloli Desert.
- Altiplano lagoons (Honda, Hedionda, Cañapa, and Ramaditas): home to more flamingos and high Andean birds.
- Ollagüe and Tomasamil volcanoes: perfect panoramas for photography.
- Salar de Chiguana: a salt flat with railway tracks and desert landscapes.
- Ollagüe Volcano Viewpoint: an active volcano visible from the high plateau.
📍Day 3: Salar de Uyuni – Incahuasi Island – Uyuni
- Departure: Very early, around 5:00 a.m., to watch the sunrise over the salt flat.
🌅 Main Activities:
- Sunrise over the Uyuni Salt Flats: magical reflections and colors.
- Incahuasi Island: hike among giant, ancient cacti.
- Photo session with perspective: unique moments overlooking the endless salt flats.
- Salt Museum and Dakar Monument: in the center of the salt flats.
- Colchani Village: artisan market with salt products and textiles.
🚌 End of tour:
Arrival in Uyuni between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.
Optional:
- Night bus Uyuni – La Paz.
- Return to Calama.
INCLUDES
✅Includes
- Transfers/pick-ups as per the itinerary (Calama and/or coordinated meeting point)
- Shared 4×4 tourist transport during the Bolivian tour (max. 6 people per vehicle, depending on the operator)
- Local driver-guide in Spanish
- 2 nights of basic accommodation (guesthouses/hostels)
- Meals during the tour (usually 2 breakfasts + 2 lunches + 2 dinners, depending on the package)
- Basic first-aid kit (and supplemental oxygen in some vehicles, depending on the operator)
- Guided visits to the attractions on the itinerary
NOT INCLUDED
❌Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day (depending on departure schedule/logistics)
- Entrance fees: Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve / Incahuasi Island / hot springs (if applicable)
- Bottled drinks and personal snacks
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Tips (optional)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Services not expressly mentioned under “includes”
RECOMMENDATIONS
💡Recommendations
- Bring warm clothing for freezing temperatures at night.
- Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm.
- Have your passport with the appropriate immigration stamps ready.
- Bring cash in bolivianos.
- A camera with an extra battery to capture everything.
FAQs
❓Frequently Asked Questions about the Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from Calama
How does the tour from Calama begin?
The tour begins in Calama, where you will be transferred to the Bolivian border. After completing immigration formalities, the journey continues in a 4×4 vehicle across the Bolivian Altiplano to the Salar de Uyuni, following the classic circuit of lagoons, deserts, and geothermal areas.
Does this tour cross the border between Chile and Bolivia?
Yes. The tour includes the Chile-Bolivia border crossing, so it is mandatory to carry a valid ID or passport and comply with the immigration requirements corresponding to your nationality.
Do I need a visa to enter Bolivia?
It depends on your nationality.
- Chilean and Peruvian citizens generally do not require a visa.
- Other nationalities should check beforehand.
It is recommended to inquire in advance to avoid any issues at the border.
How many days does the tour last exactly?
The tour lasts 3 days and 2 nights, allowing you to leisurely explore the main attractions of the Bolivian Altiplano and ending at the Salar de Uyuni.
Where does the tour end?
The tour generally ends in Uyuni, although some programs offer a connection to San Pedro de Atacama or a return to Chile. This should be confirmed before booking.
What places are visited during the tour?
The tour includes, among others:
- Laguna Blanca and Laguna Verde
- Dalí Desert
- Siloli Desert and Stone Tree
- Laguna Colorada (flamingos)
- Sol de Mañana Geysers
- Altiplano Hot Springs
- Salar de Uyuni
- Incahuasi Island (if open)
Is Incahuasi Island always visited?
Not necessarily. A visit to Incahuasi Island depends on the water level in the salt flats. During the rainy season, it may be closed or inaccessible.
What is the best time to take this tour?
- Dry season (April to November): more stable routes, visible hexagonal salt patterns.
- Rainy season (January to March): possibility of the famous mirror effect, although some routes may be modified.
Can you see the mirror effect on this tour?
It is possible only during the rainy season, but it is not guaranteed, as it depends on the amount of water accumulated on the salt flats.
Is it very cold during the tour?
Yes. Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), especially in the early morning and at sunrise at the geysers. Thermal clothing and a windbreaker are essential.
What are the accommodations like?
The accommodations are basic and rustic, in keeping with the high-altitude environment. Some nights may be in simple shelters with limited amenities. Salt hotels are offered on certain tours.
Are there showers and hot water?
Hot water is available in some accommodations, but it’s not always consistent. Hot water may be limited due to local conditions.
What kind of meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are generally included during the Bolivian circuit. The food is simple, nutritious, and adapted to the altitude.
Can I bring a special diet (vegetarian, vegan)?
Yes, but you must notify us in advance so we can coordinate suitable options within the possibilities of the Altiplano.
Is there cell phone or internet service during the tour?
Signal is very limited or nonexistent along much of the route. Some accommodations may offer basic Wi-Fi, but it’s not guaranteed.
Is this a physically demanding tour?
It doesn’t require long hikes, but the altitude, the cold, and long 4×4 journeys can be challenging. Good general fitness is recommended, and you should always walk at a leisurely pace.
Is it suitable for children or seniors?
It can be done, but it is recommended to assess your altitude tolerance and consult beforehand if you have any special medical conditions.
What happens if the weather is adverse?
For safety reasons, the itinerary may be modified or adjusted. In extreme cases, some attractions may not be visited.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, as long as it is done with authorized operators. The vehicles have a first-aid kit, and the guides are trained to work at high altitudes.
Should I bring cash?
Yes. It is essential to bring cash (Bolivianos) for entrance fees, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses, as card payments are almost nonexistent.
What luggage is recommended?
Small luggage or a backpack, as space in the vehicles is limited. Bring only what you need for the tour.
Can I bring a professional camera or drone?
Professional cameras are allowed. For drones, it is recommended to check beforehand, as there are restrictions in some areas.