From San Pedro de Atacama: 3-Day Uyuni Salt Flats Tour

Sur Lipez Province, Chile



Explore the Uyuni Salt Flats on a 3-day tour from San Pedro de Atacama. Visit the Laguna Blanca, Laguna Verde, and the Salvador Dali Desert. See the Sol de Mañana Geysers and the Laguna Colorada.

Uyuni Salt Flats 3-Day Tour from San Pedro de Atacama

Experience a 3-day guided tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats and the Bolivian Altiplano, ideal for travelers interested in natural landscapes and cultural sites.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the Uyuni Salt Flats and watch the sunrise over the vast white salt plains
  • Visit notable lagoons: Laguna Blanca, Laguna Verde, Laguna Colorada, Laguna Misteriosa, and Laguna Vinto
  • Discover the Salvador Dalí Desert and the Sol de Mañana Geysers
  • See the Valley of the Rocks, Anaconda Canyon, and Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti
  • Observe flamingos at Laguna Colorada and explore local salt-related sites like the Salt Museum and Train Cemetery

Itinerary

Day 1: Depart from San Pedro de Atacama and cross the Bolivian border. Transfer to a 4x4 vehicle and visit Laguna Blanca and Laguna Verde near Licancabur Volcano. Explore the Salvador Dalí Desert and Polques Hot Springs. Continue to Sol de Mañana Geysers, then reach Laguna Colorada, home to over 30,000 flamingos. Overnight stay in a hostel in Villamar.

Day 2: Visit the Valley of the Rocks and unique geological formations like Camel and Sora. Explore Laguna Misteriosa (Catal) and its native flora and fauna. Then visit Laguna Vinto and the Mirador viewpoint, followed by Anaconda Canyon. Overnight at the Salt Hotel in Colcha K.

Day 3: Watch sunrise over Salar de Uyuni. Visit Incahuasi Island for panoramic views and giant cacti. Explore the Salt Museum and stop at Colchani village for local crafts. Conclude with a brief visit to the Train Cemetery before arriving in Uyuni.

Included

  • Pick-up at the meeting point
  • Small group tours
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Drop-off at Uyuni bus station or downtown
  • Shared transportation: minibus in Chile, 4x4 vehicle in Bolivia (up to 6 people)
  • Accommodation in basic hostels
  • Spanish-speaking driver

Not Included

  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Additional meals not mentioned
  • Park entrance fees (Bs. 186 per person)
  • Entrance to Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve (Bs. 150 per person)
  • Polques Hot Springs entrance fee (Bs. 6 per person)
  • Incahuasi Island entrance fee (Bs. 30 per person)
  • Restroom access along the route

Important Information

  • Book at least one week in advance; last-minute bookings may change
  • Bring cash for park fees, personal expenses, and entrances as ATMs are scarce
  • Prepare for high altitudes with medication if needed
  • Respect local customs and wildlife throughout the tour
  • Stay hydrated and use sun protection

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.

To get the best experience, book early and bring layered clothing for temperature variations between day and night.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to Uyuni Salt Flats, Incahuasi Island, Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, Polques Hot Springs, Sol de Mañana Geysers, Laguna Verde, Laguna Blanca, flamingo habitats, private 4x4 transportation, an English-speaking guide, basic hostel accommodations, and some meals.
The tour starts with a hotel pick-up in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, and typically ends back in San Pedro de Atacama.
Yes, you can see flamingos and other Andean wildlife in their natural habitats around Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca during the tour.
It is recommended to acclimate in San Pedro de Atacama before the tour and stay hydrated; the tour reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters.
Accommodation is provided in basic hostels during the tour, with included meals at the lodges or nearby restaurants.
The tour involves long drives on rough terrain and high altitudes, so it is recommended for physically fit travelers; check with the operator regarding specific age restrictions.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; check official government resources before traveling from Chile to Bolivia for the tour.
The dry season from May to November is ideal for visiting the salt flats, while the wet season can create a mirror effect but may limit access.
Some providers may offer customizable or longer tours; contact the tour operator directly to discuss options.
Transportation is in private 4x4 vehicles designed for off-road terrain, with an experienced English-speaking driver-guide ensuring safety and comfort.

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