Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from Santa Cruz | 2D/1N

🗓 Detailed Itinerary: Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from Santa Cruz 2D/1N

📍Day 1: Santa Cruz – Oruro – Uyuni

• Departure by night bus from Santa Cruz to Oruro (departure between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM approximately).
• Comfortable travel on a sleeper or semi-sleeper bus, lasting approximately 11 to 13 hours.
• Arrival in Oruro the following morning.
• Connection to Uyuni: Tourist bus Oruro – Uyuni.
• Arrival in Uyuni at noon.
• Free time for lunch (not included).
• 1:30 PM: Tour begins in a shared 4×4 vehicle (max. 6 people).

🚙 The adventure begins:

• First stop at the Train Cemetery, a nostalgic reminder of Bolivia’s industrial era.
• Visit to Colchani, a salt-making community where you’ll see the artisanal salt process and local handicrafts.
• Entrance to the immense Salar de Uyuni:

– Stops to see the eyes of the salt flat and the salt mounds.

– Visit to the Playa Blanca Salt Hotel, now an ecological museum.

– Free time to take perspective and creative photos on the salt flat.

• Picnic lunch in the middle of the white desert.
• Explore Incahuasi Island, with giant cacti and 360° panoramic views.
• Enjoy a spectacular sunset on the salt flat, with unique reflections if the water is in season.
• Transfer to your accommodation in San Juan del Rosario or basic accommodation in Uyuni.

📍Day 2: Sunrise on the Salt Flats – Return to Santa Cruz

• Early breakfast at your accommodation.
• Option to take a short additional tour of the salt flats or visit nearby viewpoints (weather conditions and return time depend on).
• Return to Uyuni mid-morning.
• Free time for lunch or to visit the artisan market.
• Afternoon: Board the overnight bus from Uyuni to Oruro to Santa Cruz.

– Direct connection or short stopover in Oruro (depending on the company).

• Arrive in Santa Cruz the next morning.

✅ Includes

• 🚙 Shared 4×4 Tourist Transportation throughout the Tour
  Complete tour in 4×4 vehicles specially equipped for the salt flats and desert terrain. The service is shared, guaranteeing safety, stability, and access to the main attractions of the Salar de Uyuni.
• 🧭 Local Spanish-Speaking Guide-Driver
  Accompanied by a specialized local guide-driver with extensive knowledge of the Salar de Uyuni, its geography, history, and the conditions of the Altiplano. They provide explanations throughout the tour and offer ongoing guidance to travelers.
• 🚐 Pick-up at the Uyuni Bus Terminal
  Pick-up service from the Uyuni bus terminal, facilitating an organized and hassle-free start to the tour for passengers arriving by bus.
• 🤝 Assistance throughout the Tour
  Continuous assistance from the tour team, ensuring a well-organized experience, support in case of any eventuality, and constant accompaniment throughout the excursion.
• 🩺 First aid kit
  Each vehicle has a first aid kit, prepared to treat minor ailments or any minor eventuality during the trip.

❌ Not Included

• 🚌 Tourist Bus Santa Cruz – Uyuni (Round Trip)
  Tourist bus transportation from Santa Cruz to Uyuni and back is not included in the program and must be booked separately, subject to availability and schedules.
• 🍽️ Meals outside the tour
  Any food or beverage not expressly mentioned in the “Included Services” section is not included. This includes breakfasts, dinners, and additional snacks.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance (Recommended)
  Travel and medical insurance are not included. It is recommended to purchase insurance that covers medical assistance, accidents, and tourist activities in high-altitude areas.
• 🎟️ Entrance to Incahuasi Island
  Entrance to Incahuasi Island is not included and costs approximately 30 Bolivianos per person, payable in cash. The visit is optional and depends on weather conditions and the water level in the salt flats.
• 💰 Tips for guides and driver
  Tips for the guide and driver are optional and are at the traveler’s discretion as recognition for the service provided during the tour.

🧭 Recommendations

🧥 Clothing suitable for extreme weather

The Salar de Uyuni is located at over 3,600 meters above sea level and experiences very low temperatures, especially at dawn and dusk. We recommend bringing:

• Thermal clothing (base layer).
• A fleece or thick coat (mid-layer).
• A windproof and waterproof jacket (outer layer).
• A hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff.

Dressing in layers is key to adapting to the sudden temperature changes.

🕶️ Sun protection is essential

The sun’s reflection off the salt is extremely strong. Don’t forget:

• High-factor sunscreen.
• Sunglasses with UV protection.
• Lip balm with SPF.

Even on cold or cloudy days, the radiation is intense.

💧 Hydration and snacks

Bring enough water for the trip and drink constantly in small sips. It is recommended to bring energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, bars), especially due to the altitude.

💵 Cash

It is essential to bring cash (Bolivianos) for:

• Entrance to Incahuasi Island.
• Additional drinks.
• Souvenirs and personal expenses. There are no ATMs or POS terminals on the salt flats.

🔋 Electronic Equipment

The cold quickly drains the battery of cell phones and cameras. Bring:

• A power bank or extra batteries.
• Sufficient memory for photos and videos.

🚶‍♂️ Physical Activity and Altitude

Walk slowly and avoid strenuous activity. Rest when necessary and always follow the instructions of the guide/driver.

❤️ Health and Prevention

If you suffer from heart problems, respiratory issues, or high blood pressure, consult your doctor before the trip. Bring your personal medication and avoid alcohol before and during the tour.

🪪 Documentation

Always carry your valid ID or passport, as it may be requested during checks or services.

❓ Frequently asked questions about the Uyuni Salt Flats Tour from Santa Cruz

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins with pick-up at the Uyuni bus terminal, or at a pre-arranged meeting point within the city.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts approximately one full day, visiting the main attractions of the Uyuni Salt Flats.

What places are visited during the tour?

The tour includes:

• Entrance to the Uyuni Salt Flats.
• Perspective photo session.
• Flags and monuments area.
• Incahuasi Island (optional), depending on weather conditions.

Is the visit to Incahuasi Island included?

No. The entrance to Incahuasi Island is optional and costs approximately 30 Bs per person, payable in cash.

What is the best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats?

• Dry season: geometric salt patterns and more stable routes.
• Rainy season: possibility of seeing the famous mirror effect, although the itinerary may vary.

Can you see the mirror effect?

It’s possible only if there has been recent rainfall and the water level is adequate, but it’s not guaranteed.

Is it very cold during the tour?

Yes. Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), especially at dawn and dusk. Appropriate clothing is essential.

Is the tour physically demanding?

It doesn’t require long hikes, but the altitude and cold can be challenging. Good general fitness and a relaxed pace are recommended.

Is it suitable for children and seniors?

It can be done, but it’s recommended to assess altitude tolerance and consult with a guide beforehand if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Is there cell phone or internet service?

Signal is very limited or nonexistent during the tour. Basic signal may be available in Uyuni.

Is the tour safe?

Yes. It’s done in 4×4 vehicles, with a local driver-guide, continuous assistance, and a first-aid kit.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance?

It’s not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical assistance and activities at high altitudes.