How to get to Uyuni from Cochabamba: a complete travel guide
Traveling from Cochabamba to Uyuni, the gateway to the famous Salar de Uyuni, is an experience that requires planning, but it’s absolutely worth it. Although both cities are within Bolivia, the route may involve a combination of transportation options, depending on the type of trip you’re looking for: direct, budget-friendly, or more comfortable. Below, we show you all the available options, including bus, plane, and mixed routes, with helpful keywords seamlessly integrated to help you find the best way to get to the Salar de Uyuni from Cochabamba.
🚌 How to get to Uyuni from Cochabamba by bus
Currently, there are no direct buses from Cochabamba to Uyuni, so the trip must be made with layovers. This is the most economical option, but also the longest and least comfortable.
Recommended route:
- Cochabamba → Oruro
Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Bus companies: Trans Azul, Trans Copacabana, or Trans Illimani.
Frequent departures from the Cochabamba bus terminal.
- Oruro → Uyuni
Duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hours.
Recommended times: Night buses between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
Available companies: Trans Azul, Trans Imperial, or Expreso 11 de Julio.
🕒 Total estimated bus travel time: Between 12 and 14 hours, depending on the connection between cities.
✈️ How to get to Uyuni from Cochabamba by plane
Although there are no direct flights from Cochabamba to Uyuni, you can travel there with a layover in La Paz. This option is ideal if you have limited time and prefer comfort.
Suggested flight route:
- Flight Cochabamba → La Paz
Duration: 40 minutes.
Airlines: BOA (Boliviana de Aviación) or EcoJet.
Frequency: Several departures daily.
- Flight La Paz → Uyuni
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Airline: BOA.
Recommendation: Take a connecting flight on the same day to save time.
🕒 Estimated total flight time (including layovers): 3 to 5 hours.
🚙 How to get to Uyuni from Cochabamba by bus and train
A scenic alternative for travelers who enjoy long journeys is to combine bus and train.
Recommended route:
- Cochabamba → Oruro (bus)
Already described in option 1.
- Oruro → Uyuni (train)
Rail service: Empresa Ferroviaria Andina (Andean Railway Company).
Available trains: Wara Wara del Sur or Expreso del Sur.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.
Frequency: Twice a week (check updated schedules).
🚂 This route offers unique views of the Bolivian Altiplano and greater comfort compared to overnight buses.
🛻 Option 4: How to get to Uyuni from Cochabamba by private vehicle
For travelers who prefer independence, it’s also possible to reach Uyuni by private car or rental vehicle.
Route by car:
Route: Cochabamba → Oruro → Challapata → Uyuni
Total distance: Approximately 520 km
Estimated duration: Between 10 and 12 hours
Road conditions: In good condition for most of the route, although caution is advised in rural sections.
🛣️ This route is ideal for adventurers looking to explore Bolivia at their own pace.
📌 Tips for your trip from Cochabamba to Uyuni
- Bring warm clothing. Uyuni is located at over 3,600 meters above sea level, and temperatures can drop considerably, even in summer.
- If you’re traveling by bus or overnight train, bring a blanket or sleeping bag.
- Buy your tickets in advance if you’re traveling during peak season (July-August or December-January).
- Consider spending a night in Oruro if your connection isn’t immediate.
- Check the weather in Uyuni before you leave, especially during the rainy season (January-March), when the salt flats can be covered in water.
