Bolivia. Out of this World.
You can’t go to South America without doing a 3-4 day 4×4 tour of the Bolivian Altiplano from Uyuni, Bolivia to San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. The scenery is breathtaking and the experiences unequalled.
First on the ‘to-do’ list, sitting at an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet, is Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats), the world’s largest salt flat. The flats were formed when the lake dried up, leaving salts and minerals that couldn't flow away and covered an area of 10,582 km². This resulted in a dazzling white expanse which goes on for as far as the eye can see. If you time your trip right (and Mother Nature is on your side), the flooded mirror-like salt plain reflects the sky. It is truly magic. Be sure to pack props for some perception defying photos that’ll make your friends #totallyjealous.
Next, as you’re driving across the Salar, a rocky island covered in colossal cacti (the only plants to survive this bizarre environment) appears out of nowhere! Isla Pescadores, Incahuasi or Cactus Island as it is fondly known, is a feast for the eyes. Spend an hour meandering through the giant cacti forest to the summit, where you will be delighted with 360 degree views across the mesmerising Salar.
And just when you’re starting to get used to this crazy land, you’ll likely spend the night in a hotel made almost completely of salt. To truly feel the magic of the Salar, step outside and see the night sky twinkle to life.
Another favourite of ours is the crimson coloured volcanic lagoon Laguna Colorada. The stunning, mineral-rich lagoon lies high in the Andes at 4300m. Watch rare pink flamingos prance through the orange-red hue, with a backdrop of spectacular rolling mountains and craggy rock shores. The vistas are truly otherworldly.
On your final morning, you’ll likely be up before the sunrises, to make your way to the geysers of Sol de Mañana, which only erupt in the early morning. Dress warm and meander through the lunar-like landscape, watching the ground boil and bubble. Afterwards, you’ll be treated to a warm bath in the volcanic hot springs!
We could talk for days about the truly out of this world Bolivian Altiplano. This is just the start. With its Salvador Dali-like landscapes, it surprises you at every turn. If you’re heading to South America, it’s definitely a must.
Getting There
The little town of Uyuni is the gateway to Salar de Uyuni and the Bolivian Altiplano. Most 4 x 4 tours set off early in the morning, so stay the night in Uyuni before the tour. The most common way to arrive in Uyuni is by overnight tourist bus from La Paz or to fly from La Paz.
Choosing a Tour Company
Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable tour company.
Tips
See your travel doctor before you depart and pick up some altitude sickness medication.
Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm and a hat. The sun is intense at this altitude.
Stock up on snacks and water before you leave Uyuni. There are limited places to purchase on the tour.
Carry some change and small bills as in many places, the bathrooms charge a fee.
Ensure your camera batteries are charged as electricity is scarce and you may not have an opportunity to charge them during the trip.
Be sure to pack a headlamp/torch for when the generators are turned off at night.
The bathrooms are shared in the salt hotels, so be sure to pack thongs/flip-flops for use in these facilities.
Speak to your tour operator about hiring a sleeping bag, so that you don’t have to pack one.
Be sure to pack warm as the temperature can drop below freezing overnight.
