Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia: 10 Things to Know

With its breathtaking landscapes, the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, the largest salt desert in the world, is a must-see during a trip to South America. Vast expanses of salt stretching as far as the eye can see, bordered by volcanoes and dotted with saltwater lakes whose orange hue resembles a sunset, and starry nights far from the lights of our civilization… Before heading to Bolivia, to discover the Salar de Uyuni, discover 10 essential things to know about this mythical place.

#1 The Largest Salt Desert in the World

The Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world, is located in the southwest of Bolivia, equidistant between the Chilean and Argentine borders, in the heart of the Andes mountain range.
Situated at an altitude of 3650 meters, it extends over approximately 10500 km² and measures more precisely 150 kms by 100.
A true desert of salt expanse, the site alternates layers of salt and clay about 40 cm thick. Its origin dates back to prehistory, around 14,000 years ago, where Lake Tauca once was, which evaporated over time to give birth to the salars of Uyuni and Copaisa as well as the two lakes Poopo and Uru Uru.

#2 The Largest Lithium Reserve in the World

Due to its size, the Salar de Uyuni boasts the largest lithium reserve in the world. Lithium is used as a main component for electric batteries and cells, making it a highly exploitable resource for the country. The Bolivian government is aware of its wealth which does not go unnoticed by some multinationals...

#3 When to Visit the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia

Due to its location in the heart of the Andes mountain range and its altitude of 3650 m, the Salar de Uyuni is a rather windy site, usually sunny but visiting it varies entirely depending on the seasons.
During the rainy season, from December to March, the completely flat ground can quickly be covered with about twenty centimeters of water, making some islands inaccessible but giving a totally unreal vision of the place, with the water's reflection on the Salar making the horizon line disappear.
During the dry season, from April to December, the days are sunny and nights clear, perfect for observing a splendid starry sky.

#4 The Flora and Fauna of Salar de Uyuni

While exploring Sud Lipez, you enter the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve where you will have the chance to observe no less than 3 species of pink flamingos (including James's flamingos, with yellow bills), foxes, viscachas (small rodents resembling rabbits), and especially llamas, so characteristic of South America.
In terms of vegetation, islands are covered with sometimes millennial cacti that can reach up to ten meters tall.

(c) Elizabeth Gottwald – Unsplash

#5 Guided Tour of the Salar

Upon your arrival at the site, you will need to choose a local agency to tour the salar which can last from 1 to 4 days depending on your wishes. You will leave by 4x4 from the towns of Uyuni or Tupiza, further south, to explore Sud Lipez province and discover the Salar.

1. Make sure you check all details about the service provided, especially regarding accommodation; temperatures can drop as low as -20°C depending on the period, so be prepared to avoid ruining your visit.
2. Ask all necessary questions for a smooth trip regarding the driver, number of people, food, and ensure you have enough water.
3. Allocate a reasonable amount for your excursion; you will be delighted and your memories much more memorable.

#6 Multi-colored Lagoons and Geysers of Sud Lipez

One of the site's must-sees is undoubtedly Laguna Colorada (4278 m above sea level), south of Bolivia. The view is simply breathtaking; this red-colored saline lake due to certain algae pigments exhibits incredible colors! It's stunning especially since it's a favorite spot for hundreds of pink flamingos...
Laguna Blanca and Laguna Verde are located at the foot of volcanoes Juriques and Licancabur on the Chilean border.
You will also take "jewel road" which borders Laguna Honda, Laguna Hedionda among others, each more beautiful than the last.
Another natural wonder is Sud Lipez's geysers, allowing you to enjoy a swim in nearby hot springs, guaranteed escape and friendliness!

#7 Colchani, Salt Village

Even though this tiny village doesn’t hold much interest itself, one can only respect its local population. It seems lost in this desert area with very few inhabitants who live off salt exploitation under difficult conditions for meager pay. The salt hotels where you might stop are constructed using bricks made from village-produced salt; everything from floor to ceiling including furniture is made from salt!

#8 Train Cemetery

Time seems frozen at Uyuni's train cemetery. Locomotive carcasses pile up here... Dating back from early 20th century, these trains were abandoned after failing an ambitious railway project with neighboring countries. Frequent salty winds quickly took their toll on these vehicles leaving them mere rusted wrecks susceptible to corrosion. A sight worth seeing!

#9 The Legend of Salar

The origin story attributes Salar's formation due to Lake Tauca's drying up during prehistory forming this vast salt desert instead—a thesis perhaps too mundane whereas locals sometimes share their more poetic theory: According to legend, among many bordering volcanoes stands Tunupa considered unique as female! Upon her little volcano’s birth surrounding ones insisted claiming paternity causing gods angry at rivalry decided immobilizing them all—Tunupa heartbroken resulted pouring salty tears flooding surroundings creating today’s salt desert! A beautiful tale indeed!

#10 What To Bring On A Salar de Uyuni Excursion

Prepare well before venturing into Salar.

• Warm clothing is obviously essential: gloves socks thick sweaters tights plus lightweight yet warm jackets.
• Don’t forget high-protection sunscreen & quality sunglasses since brightness & reflection might harm eyes preventing enjoying scenery.
• Bring along at least five-liter water container ensuring potable supply during circuit days.
• Lastly it seems indispensable carrying good camera—you won’t regret investment.

Finally feel free asking local Bolivian agency organizing few-day trip during upcoming Bolivia journey because this place truly magical unusual heritage planet Earth offers us! Above all remember respecting places like Bolivians say Pachamama "Mother Earth"!