Question 1

How do I get to Salar de Uyuni from La Paz?

Accepted Answer

You can take a 10 to 12-hour overnight bus, which costs $15 to $25 USD and arrives between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM. Alternatively, Boliviana de Aviación operates a 1-hour flight from La Paz to Uyuni airport for $89 to $150 USD. Taking a 4-hour bus to Oruro followed by a 6 to 7-hour train ride is another option costing $5 to $17 USD.

Question 2

How much does a Salar de Uyuni tour cost?

Accepted Answer

A basic 1-day tour typically costs between $30 and $50 USD per person. For a comprehensive 3-day, 2-night group trip, prices generally range from $150 to $200 USD, covering shared 4x4 transport, basic accommodation, and meals. You will also need local currency to pay separate park entrance fees, which are not included in the base price.

Question 3

Do I need to bring cash for entrance fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all local entrance fees must be paid in Bolivian Bolivianos, as US dollars and credit cards are not accepted. You will need 30 BOB for Incahuasi Island, 150 BOB for the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, and 6 BOB for the Polques hot springs. It is also wise to carry small change, since public bathrooms cost about 6 BOB per use.

Question 4

When is the best time of year to visit the salt flats?

Accepted Answer

The wet season from December to March creates a thin layer of water over the salt crust, producing a massive mirror effect that perfectly reflects the sky. If you prefer stable weather and want to see the hexagonal salt crust patterns, the dry season from May to November is ideal. Keep in mind that heavy rain in January and February can make certain areas completely impassable for vehicles.

Question 5

What clothing and gear should I pack for the tour?

Accepted Answer

You must dress in highly adaptable layers, including a thermal base, a warm mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell to handle extreme temperature shifts. Essential gear includes UV-blocking sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, a high-capacity power bank, and extra camera batteries. If visiting during the wet season, bring lightweight plastic rain boots to protect your feet from the highly corrosive saltwater.

Question 6

Are the salt flats wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

Specialized operators in Uyuni town offer wheelchair-friendly tours using modified 4x4 vehicles equipped with lifts and secure spaces. These specialized tours allow mobility-impaired visitors to safely explore the salt flats and travel to the northern edge near Tunupa Volcano. Standard group tours use regular 4x4 vehicles where folding wheelchairs must be stored in the trunk, requiring manual transfers.

Question 7

What are the overnight accommodations like on a 3-day tour?

Accepted Answer

Budget tours typically use very basic, unheated dormitories with shared bathrooms where nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. Upgrading your booking is highly recommended to secure a room in a salt hotel that features private rooms, heating, and reliable hot showers. Always get confirmation of your accommodation details in writing before paying the tour operator.

Question 8

Will the high altitude affect my trip?

Accepted Answer

The salt flat sits at 3,650 meters above sea level, and the 3-day tour reaches up to 5,000 meters at the Sol de Mañana Geysers. At these elevations, visitors commonly experience altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue. You should acclimatize in nearby cities for two to three days and carry specialized altitude medication or coca leaves to manage symptoms.

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