A compact 3-day journey from La Paz to the Salar de Uyuni that pairs La Paz city highlights with the salt flat’s surreal landscapes, a train cemetery, and Colchani’s salt workshops. Prepare for high altitude, long 4x4 transfers, and dramatic light.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices through La Paz’s cable cars as the group gathers at the Church of San Francisco, breath visible in the chill. The city’s steep alleys fall away and, within a day's travel, the horizon opens into the blinding white of Salar de Uyuni — an expanse that pushes the eye and blunts familiar depth cues.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to handle several hours of walking at high altitude and long vehicle transfers
Wildlife
History
The salar is the remnant of an ancient lake; salt extraction and mineral transport shaped local settlements and the regional economy.
Conservation
Salar ecosystems are sensitive and affected by lithium interests and tourism; follow guides, avoid removing salt, and minimize waste to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Excursion to La Paz and Salar de Uyuni 3D/2N today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in La Paz
Spend 24–48 hours in La Paz before departure to reduce altitude sickness risk; hydrate and avoid heavy exertion your first day.
Sun and reflection protection
UV is intense on the salar — use high SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a brimmed hat to avoid reflected sunburn.
Layer for temperature swings
Days can be warm while nights drop below freezing; pack insulating layers and a windproof shell.
Respect the salt surface
Stay on routes guided by drivers and don’t remove salt or disturb fragile formations to protect the ecosystem.
High SPF sunscreen & sunglasses
Protects from intense UV and mirror-like reflections on the salt flats.
summer
Warm insulating layers
Nights and early mornings are cold at altitude; pack down or fleece layers.
winter
Sturdy, waterproof shoes
Useful for walking on uneven salt crust, village streets, and occasional wet patches in rainy season.
Reusable water bottle with filter
Keeps you hydrated at altitude; water sources on the route may be basic.