The Latin America Travel Company

UYUNI SALT FLATS | BOLIVIA

Why Visit Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats?

"The Bolivian Salt Flats, one of the most well-known parts of Bolivia and one the most extreme and unique landscapes on Earth are well-known for their beauty and mystery."

The Salar de Uyuni, at 3,656m, is the most famous salt flat in the world. It covers an area of more than 10,000 sq.km. The salt crust was originally formed by a series prehistoric lakes, which eventually evaporated. NASA now uses these flats to calibrate satellite altimeters. After it rains, a thin layer water is added to the salt and makes it the largest mirror in the world.

Map of Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats

When is the Best Time to Visit Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats?

There is no right or wrong time to visit salt flats when considering one of our Bolivia luxury tours. It is all about what you want. Visit between September and November for the best climate. Visit between December and April to see the salt flats mirror effect (at its best the later you go in this period).

Each season has its own unique perspectives and features. The Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia, becomes the largest natural mirror at the start of each year. This giant salt desert is covered with water in the rainy season. It reflects light creating optical illusions almost impossible to believe. Tourists love this time of year.

It is more likely to rain in February, although this can be unpredictable. You should also be aware of the fact that excessive rain can melt salt, making large portions of salt flat inaccessible.

Stargazing at night is best done during the winter months, when the sky is clear and bright. On a lucky night in the rainy season, you might be able to see the Salar's still, mirror-like surface reflecting the starry sky. For the best experience, make sure to check the moon cycle!

The weather in June, July, and August is dry, but it can be very cold at night.
bolivia climate uyuni salt flats

What are the Highlights of Bolivia's Uyuni Salt Flats?

The Uyuni Salt Flats are arguably the highlight of Bolivia and indeed South America. Whatever time you go it is unlikely to disappoint although stick with March to april if the mirror effect is a must.
destinations bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats star gazing
Star Gazing
destinations bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats scale
Salt Flats
destinations bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats cacti
Cacti of Incahusi
destinations bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats adventure
Mirror Effect
★ Star gazing across the vast night sky with almost no light pollution.

★ The perfect sunsets and sunrises across the flat landscape.

★ The mirror effect in April - a unique experience.

★ Incahuasi "Island" that just out form the salt flats and is inhabited by large cacti.

★ The big red and salty Laguna Colorada and its Flamingoes in March, April and May

Explore These Inspiring Destinations in Bolivia

Browse our selection of incredible destinations in Bolivia. Most visit Bolivia as part of a tour encompassing neighbouring countries such as Peru and Chile. We can also arrange specific
Bolivia private tours. Call us on 0208 191 7772 or send an enquiry to begin planning your trip!
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