How to get to Uyuni from Cusco? | Travel Guide
Are you in Cusco and dreaming of visiting the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia?
Although there are no direct flights or immediate connections, getting from Cusco to Uyuni is a fascinating journey that takes you across the Andes and through breathtaking landscapes between Peru and Bolivia. In this guide, we explain all the possible routes, transportation options, and useful tips to help you reach the heart of the salt flats without any problems.
🧭 Cusco – Uyuni Route: Available Options
Getting from Cusco to Uyuni involves combining several modes of transportation, as there is no direct connection. These are the most recommended options for this trip:
✈️ Cusco – La Paz – Uyuni (fastest)
This is the most comfortable and fastest option, ideal for those looking to save time.
Flight from Cusco to La Paz
- Airlines: LATAM or BOA (with a layover in Lima)
- Approximate total duration: 4 to 6 hours (including layovers)
- Arrival airport: El Alto – La Paz
Flight or bus from La Paz to Uyuni
By plane: BOA offers daily flights to Uyuni (approx. 50 min.)
By bus: Several companies (Trans Omar, Cruz del Norte, Panasur) offer overnight buses (8 to 10 hours).
Estimated total time: 10 to 14 hours
Approximate cost: $120 – $180 USD (combining flights and/or bus)
🚌 Cusco – Puno – Copacabana – La Paz – Uyuni (backpacking route)
If you prefer a more economical and scenic route, this option takes you along Lake Titicaca and through the Bolivian highlands.
Cusco to Puno
- Transportation: Tourist bus or local bus
- Duration: 6 to 8 hours
- Cost: $10 – $20 USD
Puno to Copacabana (Bolivia)
- Transportation: Tourist bus with a stop in Kasani to get your passport stamped
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Cost: $8 – $15 USD
Copacabana to La Paz
- Transportation: Regular bus (companies like 6 de Octubre, Trans Titicaca)
- Duration: 4 hours
- Cost: Approximately $10 USD
La Paz to Uyuni
- Option 1: Overnight bus (10 hours)
- Option 2: Flight (1 hour, more expensive)
Estimated total time: 24 to 30 hours
Approximate total cost: $50 – $90 USD
🚆 Option 3: Cusco – La Paz – Uyuni by bus and train (railway adventure)
If you’re interested in a more adventurous experience:
- Cusco to La Paz: Overnight bus (via Desaguadero or Copacabana)
- La Paz to Oruro: Bus (3-4 hours)
- Oruro to Uyuni: Train (Expreso del Sur or Wara Wara del Sur)
Total duration: 28 to 35 hours
Estimated cost: $60 – $100 USD
Important: The train from Oruro to Uyuni does not operate every day, so you should check the official FCA Bolivia schedules.
📌 Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (optional but recommended)
- Bolivian entry form (can be obtained at the border)
- Citizens of many countries do not require a visa to enter Bolivia, but it is advisable to check before your trip.
✅ Helpful Recommendations
- Acclimatization: Uyuni is over 3,600 meters above sea level, as is Cusco. If you have already spent a few days in Cusco, you will be prepared.
- Currency Exchange: Bring Bolivian bolivianos from La Paz or exchange them in Copacabana.
- Weather: It can be cold in Uyuni, even in summer. Bring warm clothing.
- Avoid Risks: If you are traveling by land, avoid traveling at night on unfamiliar sections for your safety.
- Book in Advance: Both flights and tours in Uyuni should be booked in advance during peak season (June to October).
