Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Uyuni → Train Cemetery → Colchani → Uyuni Salt Flats → Isla Incahuasi → Salt Accommodation
Your Uyuni Salt Flats 3 Day Tour begins in the town of Uyuni, normally in the morning. After meeting your guide-driver and group, you will board a 4×4 vehicle and begin the journey toward the first attractions of the day.
The first stop is usually the famous Train Cemetery, located outside Uyuni. Here you can see old locomotives and railway remains that reflect an important period in Bolivia’s mining and transportation history.
From there, the journey continues to Colchani, a small community located near the entrance to the Salar de Uyuni. This area is known for its connection with salt production, and travelers can observe local handicrafts and learn more about how salt from the salar is traditionally processed.
We then enter the spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats, one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Bolivia. The enormous white surface creates an almost endless horizon, making it ideal for panoramic photographs and creative perspective shots.
Depending on seasonal and surface conditions, the expedition may continue toward Isla Incahuasi, an elevated island-like formation surrounded by salt and known for its giant cacti and panoramic views across the salar. Access to some areas can vary when the salt flats are covered by water.
Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to stop at different viewpoints, take photographs, and experience the impressive scale of the salt desert.
Later in the afternoon, the group leaves the central salar area and continues toward the accommodation for the first night. Dinner is served before resting and preparing for the following day’s journey into the high-altitude landscapes of the Bolivian Altiplano.
Trip Summary – Day 1
- Route: Uyuni → Train Cemetery → Colchani → Salar de Uyuni → Isla Incahuasi → Accommodation
- Transportation: 4×4 vehicle
- Main Highlights: Salar de Uyuni, perspective photography, Colchani, Isla Incahuasi
- Meals: According to confirmed package
- Accommodation: Salt or local lodge
- Difficulty: Easy
- Experience: Salt flats, photography, culture, and high-altitude landscapes
Salt Accommodation → Altiplano Lagoons → Ollagüe Area → Siloli Desert → Árbol de Piedra → Laguna Colorada
After breakfast, we continue south through the Bolivian Altiplano, where the landscape changes from vast salt plains to volcanic terrain, deserts, and colorful high-altitude lagoons.
During the journey, we will pass through remote landscapes with views toward volcanoes such as Ollagüe and visit several Andean lagoons, which may include Cañapa and Hedionda, depending on the confirmed operating route.
These wetlands provide excellent opportunities to observe flamingos and other high-altitude birds in their natural habitat. Wildlife observations depend on season and natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
The expedition then enters increasingly arid terrain before reaching the Siloli Desert, famous for its wide open landscapes and unusual rock formations.
One of the day’s most recognizable stops is the Árbol de Piedra, a naturally eroded rock formation shaped by wind and weather over many years.
Later, we continue toward Laguna Colorada, one of the most spectacular landscapes within the Eduardo Avaroa protected area. Its distinctive colors, surrounding mountains, and concentrations of flamingos make it one of the highlights of the three-day expedition.
After completing the day’s visits, we continue to our accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Trip Summary – Day 2
- Route: Salt Accommodation → Altiplano Lagoons → Ollagüe Area → Siloli Desert → Árbol de Piedra → Laguna Colorada
- Transportation: 4×4 vehicle
- Main Highlights: High-altitude lagoons, flamingos, desert landscapes, Árbol de Piedra, Laguna Colorada
- Wildlife Opportunities: Flamingos and Andean birds
- Accommodation: Basic high-altitude lodge
- Difficulty: Easy physically, but high altitude
- Experience: Wildlife, volcanoes, deserts, and colorful lagoons
Laguna Colorada → Sol de Mañana Geysers → Polques Hot Springs → Salvador Dalí Desert → Laguna Verde → Uyuni
The final day begins very early in order to experience some of the most remote landscapes of the expedition.
Our first major stop is the Sol de Mañana geothermal area, where volcanic activity creates steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and other geothermal formations. Because of the terrain and geothermal activity, travelers must always remain in designated areas and follow the instructions of the guide.
We then continue toward the Polques Hot Springs, where travelers may have the opportunity to relax in naturally heated thermal waters surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the high Altiplano.
The journey continues through the surreal landscapes of the Salvador Dalí Desert, whose unusual rock formations and barren scenery have made it one of the most recognizable desert areas on this route.
We then reach Laguna Verde, located near the Licancabur Volcano and close to Bolivia’s southwestern border region. The appearance and color of the lagoon can vary according to wind, minerals, light, and natural conditions.
After visiting the area, we begin the long return journey toward Uyuni, stopping at selected viewpoints and rest areas along the way.
Arrival in Uyuni is generally during the afternoon or early evening, depending on road, weather, and operational conditions, bringing the Uyuni Salt Flats 3 Day Tour to an end.
Trip Summary – Day 3
- Route: Laguna Colorada → Sol de Mañana → Polques → Dalí Desert → Laguna Verde → Uyuni
- Transportation: 4×4 vehicle
- Main Highlights: Geysers, thermal waters, desert landscapes, Laguna Verde
- Tour End: Uyuni
- Difficulty: Easy physically, high-altitude conditions
- Experience: Geothermal activity, hot springs, deserts, and Altiplano scenery
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
4×4 Tourist Transportation
The tour includes transportation in a 4×4 vehicle suitable for the terrain of the Salar de Uyuni and Bolivian Altiplano. The same vehicle is generally used throughout the three-day expedition, allowing access to remote areas that conventional vehicles cannot easily reach.
Professional Driver-Guide
The expedition is accompanied by an experienced driver-guide familiar with the Uyuni Salt Flats and Altiplano route. The guide-driver coordinates the daily journey, transportation, stops, and basic assistance throughout the expedition. If Machu Picchu Team will specifically include a separate bilingual professional guide, this should be listed separately in the final product.
Accommodation for Two Nights
The package includes two nights of accommodation along the route. The first night is generally in a salt-style or local lodge, while the second night is usually in a more basic high-altitude accommodation closer to the Eduardo Avaroa region. Facilities in remote areas are simpler than conventional hotels and may include shared bathrooms or limited hot water depending on the property selected.
Meals During the Expedition
Meals specified in the confirmed itinerary are included and are prepared or provided along the route. Because this expedition travels through isolated areas with limited restaurant infrastructure, meal services are coordinated in advance. Vegetarian or other dietary requests should be communicated before departure.
Salar de Uyuni Exploration
The package includes the main excursion through the Uyuni Salt Flats, with stops at selected viewpoints and photographic areas according to seasonal and operational conditions.
Visit to Altiplano Lagoons and Deserts
The itinerary includes visits to selected high-altitude lagoons, deserts, rock formations, and viewpoints along the classic three-day route.
Eduardo Avaroa Reserve Route
The tour enters areas associated with the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, one of Bolivia’s nationally administered protected areas. Travelers must follow ranger instructions and protected-area regulations during the visit.
Basic First Aid Equipment
The expedition vehicle carries basic emergency and first-aid equipment appropriate for the route. Travelers with prescription medication or specific medical requirements must bring their own supplies.
Not Included
Entrance Fees Not Specifically Listed
Any entrance fees that are not expressly listed as included in your confirmed reservation must be paid separately. Protected-area and local entrance fees may change, so the exact amount should be confirmed before departure.
Polques Hot Springs Entrance
If an additional entrance fee applies to the hot springs, it is paid separately unless expressly listed as included in the final package.
Toilets and Shower Fees
Some remote accommodations or rest stops may charge separately for showers, toilets, or hot-water services. These costs are not included unless clearly stated in the confirmed package.
Alcoholic and Additional Beverages
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and other additional beverages beyond those specified in the included meal service are not included.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included. Because the expedition reaches very high altitudes and travels through remote areas, comprehensive insurance covering high-altitude travel, medical emergencies, evacuation, delays, and trip interruption is strongly recommended.
Personal Expenses
Souvenirs, personal purchases, additional snacks, optional activities, and other expenses not specifically listed in the inclusions are the responsibility of the traveler.
Tips and Gratuities
Tips for the driver, guide, cooks, or other staff are optional and not included in the tour price.
What to Pack
What to Pack
WHAT TO PACK – UYUNI SALT FLATS 3 DAY TOUR
How to Dress
- Warm layered clothing: Temperatures can change dramatically between daytime and nighttime.
- Thermal base layers: Recommended for early mornings and high-altitude areas.
- Fleece or insulated jacket: Essential for cold evenings and mornings.
- Windproof and waterproof outer layer: High-altitude winds can be strong.
- Comfortable pants: Suitable for long hours of 4×4 travel and short walks.
- Comfortable closed shoes: Recommended for salt, rocky terrain, and geothermal areas.
- Warm hat and gloves: Especially important during the early-morning geyser visit.
- Sun hat or cap: Useful during daytime on the salt flats.
What to Take in Your Day Pack
- Original passport or identification document
- High-SPF sunscreen
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Lip balm with SPF
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication
- Camera or smartphone
- Power bank and spare batteries
- Cash in Bolivianos
- Toilet paper and personal toiletries
- Quick-drying towel
- Swimwear for Polques Hot Springs
- Snacks
- Waterproof protection for electronics
- Small flashlight or headlamp
Prices
Pricing
UYUNI SALT FLATS 3 DAY TOUR – PRICES | 2026 & 2027 SEASONS
The price of the Uyuni Salt Flats 3 Day Tour may vary depending on the type of service selected, traveler category, accommodation level, group size, and whether the tour is booked as a shared or private service. For the website, I recommend offering at least two clear options: a Shared Group Tour for travelers looking for the most economical experience and a Private Tour for couples, families, photographers, or travelers who prefer greater flexibility and personalized stops. The final rate should clearly indicate whether entrance fees to the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, hot springs, upgraded accommodation, private rooms, bilingual guides, and other optional services are included.
Group Size
Shared 4×4 expeditions usually operate with a limited number of passengers per vehicle to ensure reasonable comfort and luggage space. For Machu Picchu Team’s final product, I recommend defining the exact maximum number of travelers once your operating partner in Bolivia confirms the vehicle configuration.
Private Tour Price
Private services can be priced according to the number of passengers, vehicle requirements, accommodation level, and additional services requested. Couples, families, groups of friends, photographers, and customized itineraries may request a personalized quotation.
Returning Customer Price
Travelers who have previously booked a tour with Machu Picchu Team may qualify for a special returning-customer rate, subject to verification and availability. Previous customers should contact the reservations team before booking.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
HOW TO BOOK – UYUNI SALT FLATS 3 DAY TOUR
Step 1: Check Availability
Click the BOOK NOW button and select your preferred travel date. Availability depends on 4×4 transportation, accommodation, guide-driver services, protected-area access, and local operating conditions.
Step 2: Select Your Tour Type
Choose between the available shared group service or private tour, depending on your preferred travel style and budget.
Step 3: Enter Passenger Information
Complete the reservation form with your full name, passport or identification number, nationality, date of birth, WhatsApp number, email address, accommodation details, and any dietary or medical information relevant to the trip.
Step 4: Select Optional Services
Depending on the final product configuration, travelers may request upgraded accommodation, private rooms, bilingual guiding, private transportation, or other available enhancements.
Step 5: Complete Payment
Complete the required payment using the payment options available through Machu Picchu Team. Once received, our reservations team will verify the required services for your selected departure.
Step 6: Receive Confirmation
After verification, you will receive your booking confirmation with departure time, meeting point, accommodation information, packing recommendations, balance details if applicable, and other important instructions
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions UYUNI SALT FLATS 3 DAY TOUR | SALAR DE UYUNI BOLIVIA
1. Is the 3-day Uyuni tour better than the 1-day tour?
For travelers with sufficient time, the 3-day tour provides a much more complete experience. A one-day tour mainly focuses on the Salar de Uyuni, while the three-day expedition continues into the Altiplano to visit lagoons, deserts, geothermal areas, wildlife habitats, and the Eduardo Avaroa region.
2. Where does the tour start and finish?
The standard itinerary begins and ends in Uyuni, Bolivia. Alternative arrangements toward the Chilean border may be possible depending on the final service selected.
3. How difficult is the tour?
The tour involves relatively little strenuous hiking, but the high altitude, cold temperatures, and long periods of 4×4 travel can make the expedition physically demanding for some travelers.
4. What is the highest altitude reached?
Some sections of the southwest Bolivia route reach close to 5,000 meters above sea level, particularly around geothermal areas. Travelers should acclimatize appropriately before the trip.
5. Can I see the mirror effect on the Salar de Uyuni?
The famous mirror effect occurs when a thin layer of water covers sections of the salt flats. It depends entirely on rainfall and surface conditions and therefore cannot be guaranteed for any particular date.
6. Can I visit Isla Incahuasi throughout the year?
Access depends on the condition of the salar. During periods of deeper water, some routes across the salt flats may be modified and access to certain areas may be restricted.
7. Will I see flamingos?
Flamingos inhabit several high-altitude lagoons along the route, but they are wild animals. The number and location of birds vary according to season and natural conditions.
8. What type of accommodation is included?
The standard route generally includes simple accommodation suitable for remote desert and high-altitude conditions. Facilities may be basic, particularly on the second night.
9. Is travel insurance necessary?
It is strongly recommended because the route travels through very remote areas at high altitude. Your insurance should ideally include emergency medical assistance and evacuation.
10. How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking in advance, especially during busy travel periods, holidays, and dates associated with favorable salt-flat conditions. Private tours and upgraded accommodation should be reserved particularly early.
Travel Guide
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE UYUNI SALT FLATS TOUR WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
1. One Team for Your Peru and Bolivia Adventure
Travelers exploring Peru with Machu Picchu Team can extend their journey into Bolivia while continuing to receive assistance from a team already familiar with their travel plans. This is particularly convenient for travelers combining Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, La Paz, and Uyuni.
2. Complete 3-Day Uyuni Experience
Rather than focusing only on the salt flats, this itinerary combines the Salar de Uyuni with lagoons, flamingos, volcanoes, deserts, geysers, thermal waters, and the Eduardo Avaroa region, creating a much more complete Altiplano adventure.
3. Carefully Coordinated Local Logistics
This expedition requires coordination of 4×4 transportation, accommodation, meals, guides, protected-area access, and remote-route logistics. Machu Picchu Team coordinates the necessary services with local operators to provide a structured and reliable itinerary.
4. Shared and Private Tour Options
Travelers can choose the type of experience that best suits their budget and travel style. Shared tours are ideal for value-conscious travelers, while private expeditions provide greater privacy and flexibility.
5. Direct Reservation Assistance
Our reservations team can assist with availability, passenger information, payment, accommodation options, special requests, and preparation before departure.
6. Ideal Addition to a Peru Itinerary
The Uyuni Salt Flats are an excellent extension for travelers already visiting Cusco, Machu Picchu, Puno, or Lake Titicaca, creating the possibility of combining Peru and Bolivia in one longer South American journey.
7. Focus on Nature, Photography and Adventure
The itinerary is designed around some of Bolivia’s most distinctive landscapes, providing exceptional opportunities for landscape photography, wildlife observation, high-altitude scenery, and adventure travel.
Optional Trips
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you've come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!"
PALCOYO DAY HIKE – A SPECTACULAR ANDEAN ADVENTURE The Palcoyo Day Hike offers an extraordinary journey through the magnificent Palcoyo region, featuring three
Sacred Valley of the Incas full day tour takes you through one of the most fascinating regions of Cusco, combining ancient history, living Andean traditions, im
Ausangate 7 Lakes Full Day Tour is a spectacular high-altitude adventure through one of the most impressive landscapes in the Cusco region. The experience beg
Amazon Tour Manu Cultural Zone 4 Days: Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cusco into one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. The adventure begins ear
INCA JUNGLE TRAIL 3 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU – AN ULTIMATE ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE The Inca Jungle Trail 3 days to Machu Picchu is an exciting adventure package tha
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 4 DAYS The Choquequirao trek four days journey leads you to discover the last refuge of the Incas, a remarkable archaeological wonder filled w