Sunset at Uyuni: The day ends with a stunning light show over the salt flats.

Train Cemetery, Uyuni: Bolivia's vintage trains.

Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia: A vast expanse of natural wonder.

Incahuasi Island: A unique habitat of volcanic rocks and cacti in the Uyuni Salt Flats.

San Felipe Neri Temple: A Stunning Piece of Sucre's Colonial Heritage

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Uyuni Salt Flats and Potosi

Name: Uyuni Salt Flats and Potosi
Brand: World Expeditions
SKU: BEX
Rating: 4.00 (6 reviews)

Andes to the Atacama Discover Bolivia's spectacular salt flats, ancient ruins and colonial cities from La Paz to Sucre

Bolivia

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6 reviews

7 Days from

Trip Code: BEX

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Essential Information

Duration

7 Days

Activities

7 days adventure touring

Accommodation

6 nights hotel

Meals

2 Dinners
2 Lunches
7 Breakfasts

Internal Flights

Valued at USD$249

Difficulty Grading: 2 / 10
Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint

73kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(511kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Explore the spectacular Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, with its endless white landscapes and extraordinary scenery
Discover the ancient Tiwanaku archaeological complex, one of South America's most important pre-Inca civilisations
Visit Incahuasi Island, home to towering giant cacti, and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the vast salt flats
Experience a spectacular sunset over the Salar de Uyuni and spend two nights at the remarkable Palacio de Sal salt hotel
Explore the historic silver-mining city of Potosí, including its colonial architecture and the famous Cerro Rico mine
Discover Sucre's beautiful colonial streets, historic churches and museums, including the Casa de la Libertad

Overview

Discover Bolivia's spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats and rich cultural heritage on this seven-day adventure from La Paz to Sucre. Begin with a visit to the ancient Tiwanaku ruins before exploring the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat, renowned for its endless white landscapes, giant cacti and breathtaking scenery. Spend two days exploring the salt flats, visiting Incahuasi Island, traditional salt-producing communities and the ancient Coquesa mummies beneath Tunupa Volcano. Enjoy spectacular sunsets and two nights at the unique Palacio de Sal salt hotel. Continue through the Andean highlands to the historic mining city of Potosí, where you'll explore colonial streets and discover the fascinating history of Cerro Rico. Conclude your journey in Sucre, Bolivia's beautiful colonial capital, known for its whitewashed architecture, historic churches and museums. With expert local guides, distinctive accommodation and unforgettable landscapes, this journey combines Bolivia's natural wonders with its fascinating history and culture.

Itinerary

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Our journey begins with a pick up from our central La Paz hotel at around 10am (please ensure you advise your reservations consultant of your pre tour hotel details if you have not booked this with World Expeditions). The trip to Tiwanaku is 72 km/45 miles and is about a 1.5 hour drive from La Paz. The drive takes us through the Bolivian Highlands and provides the opportunity to see the Aymara Indians way of life. It was one of the oldest American cultures, Carbon 14 dating gives us an average age of 1580 BC to 1150 AC. This area is considered the cradle of the American man and one of the most advanced cultures in development at that time. Their main constructions are: the Kalasasaya temple with the main stone work similar to the Gate of the Sun, the monoliths Ponce and Fraile; the Akapana pyramid and the Semi underground temple. We will visit two of the local museums to see the rich pottery and stone work. Accommodation: Ritz Apart Hotel, La Paz (or similar)

Meals: B

This morning we transfer to La Paz Airport for our flight to Uyuni, gateway to the extraordinary Salar de Uyuni. On arrival, we meet our local guide and begin exploring one of South America's most remarkable natural landscapes. Our first stop is the fascinating Train Cemetery, where abandoned steam locomotives dating from the 19th and 20th centuries stand against the dramatic Altiplano scenery. We then continue to Colchani, a small community on the edge of the salt flats, to learn about traditional salt extraction and processing. Entering the Salar de Uyuni, we are surrounded by a seemingly endless expanse of brilliant white salt stretching towards the distant mountains. We visit Stairs to Heaven, an unusual salt sculpture by Bolivian artist Gastón Ugalde, before exploring the intriguing Eyes of the Salt, where underground water emerges through the salt crust. Our journey continues towards Incahuasi Island, a remarkable rocky outcrop rising from the salt flats and home to giant cacti reaching up to 10m in height. We enjoy a memorable picnic lunch surrounded by this extraordinary landscape, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Later, we travel to the remarkable Palacio de Sal, a distinctive hotel constructed using salt blocks, where we spend the next two nights. Accommodation: Palacio de Sal Hotel (or similar) NOTE: The La Paz–Uyuni flight is not included and our reservations staff will book for you

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we continue exploring the spectacular Salar de Uyuni, travelling north towards the imposing Tunupa Volcano, which rises dramatically above the surrounding salt flats. Our first stop is the small community of Coquesa, where we visit the fascinating pre-Columbian mummies preserved in caves on the slopes of the volcano. These ancient remains offer a remarkable insight into the region's early inhabitants and their burial traditions. We also have time to enjoy the extraordinary scenery and take some of the playful perspective photographs for which the Uyuni Salt Flats have become famous. With the help of our guide and driver, we can create memorable images using the seemingly endless white landscape. Later in the afternoon, we return across the Salar, stopping to enjoy a spectacular sunset. As the light softens, the salt flats take on beautiful shades of gold, pink and orange, creating one of the most memorable photographic experiences of the journey. Accommodation: Palacio de Sal Hotel (or similar)

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we leave the Uyuni Salt Flats behind and travel through the spectacular Andean highlands towards Potosí, a journey of approximately 3–4 hours. Our route passes the historic mining settlement of Pulacayo, colourful eroded mountain landscapes and remote villages where traditional agricultural practices remain an important part of daily life. As we approach Potosí, the distinctive outline of Cerro Rico, the famous Silver Mountain, dominates the skyline. Situated at approximately 4,060m, Potosí was once among the wealthiest and most important cities in the Spanish colonial empire, owing to the immense quantities of silver extracted from its surrounding mountains. This afternoon we enjoy a guided tour of the historic city, exploring its narrow colonial streets, traditional markets and impressive architecture. Highlights include the famous National Mint, San Francisco Church and the ornate façade of San Lorenzo Church, renowned for its elaborate Baroque-Mestizo stone carvings.. Accommodation: Hostal Colonial (or similar)

Meals: B

Today we gain a fascinating insight into Bolivia's mining heritage with a guided visit to a working mine at Cerro Rico, the famous Silver Mountain overlooking Potosí. For centuries, Cerro Rico was one of the world's most important sources of silver, playing a significant role in the development of colonial South America. During our visit, we learn about the history of mining in the region and gain an understanding of the challenging conditions experienced by local miners. Protective clothing and helmets are provided. Please note that the mine visit involves entering underground tunnels with confined spaces, uneven surfaces and low ceilings. This experience may not be suitable for travellers who suffer from claustrophobia or are uncomfortable underground. Your guide will advise on the conditions before entering. Following our visit, we leave Potosí and travel by private vehicle towards Sucre, descending from the high Andean plateau into the lower valleys of Chuquisaca. The journey takes approximately three hours, with striking changes in scenery, vegetation and climate along the way. Accommodation: Hostal De Su Merced (or similar)

Meals: B

Today we explore the beautiful colonial city of Sucre, renowned for its elegant whitewashed buildings, historic churches and rich cultural heritage. Our guided sightseeing tour begins at the Casa de la Libertad, one of Bolivia's most important historical buildings, where the country's declaration of independence was signed in 1825. We continue to Bolívar Park, with its attractive gardens and unusual miniature replicas of Paris's Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. We also visit the historic La Recoleta Church and Museum, which offer an insight into the city's religious and colonial history, before exploring the ASUR Museum of Indigenous Textiles, where traditional weaving techniques and the colourful textile heritage of Bolivia's Indigenous communities are showcased. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, providing time to explore Sucre's charming streets, relax in one of its cafés or enjoy the atmosphere of this beautiful historic city. Accommodation: Hostal De Su Merced (or similar) NOTE - Museums in Sucre close on holidays, Saturday and Sunday afternoon and all day Monday. Time permitting, any museums that cannot be visited on the scheduled day of the Sucre city tour, can be visited the next day at no extra cost. If this cannot occur, we will substitute with visits to alternative attractions.

Meals: B

After breakfast, our journey through Bolivia comes to an end. Depending on your onward travel arrangements, there may be time to enjoy a final stroll through Sucre's historic streets before transferring to Alcantarí Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

136 scheduled departures between 14 Nov 2026 and 25 Dec 2027.

Departs 14 Nov 2026 – ends 21 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 17 Nov 2026 – ends 24 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 19 Nov 2026 – ends 26 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 21 Nov 2026 – ends 28 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 24 Nov 2026 – ends 1 Dec 2026 (8 days)
Departs 26 Nov 2026 – ends 3 Dec 2026 (8 days)
… and 130 more departures.

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What's included?

Included

6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
Expert bilingual local sightseeing guides on the trip for each section
Airport transfers in La Paz and Uyuni on Day 2, and departure transfer in Sucre on Day 7
Comfortable and central hotels
Sightseeing excursions and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary

Not included

International flights and departure taxes
Domestic flight from La Paz to Uyuni on Day 2
Any onward domestic flights from Sucre
Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
Items of a personal nature
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Visas and vaccinations
Aerated and alcoholic drinks and bottled water
Arrival airport transfers
Any items not listed as included

About your guide

Support is provided for transfers to and from airports throughout the trip. However, please note that the flights from La Paz to Uyuni and Sucre to La Paz (on days 2 and 7) will not be accompanied by an escort. For local sightseeing, two guides will be assigned: the first guide will cover La Paz on days 1, 2, and 7, while the second guide will be responsible for Uyuni, Potosi, and Sucre from days 2 to 7.

Reviews (6)

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Absolutely fabulous tour

Sonia Harris|Roleystone, WA Australia

8 Aug 2024

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I enjoyed La Paz and Uyuni however felt Potosi and Sucre were not as enjoyable.

Susan Eason|Frenchs Forest, NSW Australia

22 Apr 2023

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The salt flats were amazing as was our driver (Martin). Martin was great help getting us through the hotel roadblock he made great lunches and set up the photo shots. Potosi and Sucre segments we're very poorly managed with the itinerary altered to suit the guide so they had days off and we had 'free time's and shortened city tours

David Le Ban|Frenchs Forest, NSW Australia

18 Apr 2023

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Grant Kavanagh|Mount Hawthorn, WA Australia

15 Nov 2023

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Stephen Jewell|Belrose, NSW Australia

28 Feb 2023

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J. Ringering|ACT

5 Sep 2018

Extra trip info

Accommodation Will My Trip Run?FAQs

Palacio de Sal Hotel

In Colchani, situated 25 km from Uyuni, our itinerary typically includes a stay at the Palacio de Sal Hotel on days 2 and 3. This hotel is constructed entirely of salt, directly on the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. It offers unique eco-friendly accommodation with modern amenities, set against the backdrop of a stunning natural landscape.

Palacio de Sal Hotel

The Palacio de Sal Hotel provides spacious rooms, featuring dome-shaped ceilings crafted from blocks of salt, offering breathtaking views of the Salar and its mesmerising surroundings.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This is an adventure touring journey involving sightseeing, short walks and travel by vehicle. No extended trekking is required, although travellers should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and spending time at high altitude.

Potosí sits at approximately 4,060m above sea level. The journey also visits other high-altitude locations, including La Paz and the Uyuni Salt Flats. Travellers should allow sufficient time to acclimatise before departure.

We spend two days exploring the Salar de Uyuni, including visits to Incahuasi Island, Tunupa Volcano, the Coquesa mummies and other natural and cultural attractions.

The best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats is during the dry season, from May to October, when clearer skies and firm salt surfaces provide more reliable access to attractions such as Incahuasi Island and the Coquesa mummies.

The trip includes six nights in comfortable hotels, including two nights at the distinctive Palacio de Sal, constructed using salt blocks. Accommodation is generally provided on a twin-share basis.

Domestic flights are not included in the trip price. However, World Expeditions can arrange these flights for you at an additional cost. Please contact our team for assistance with flight arrangements.

Yes. English-speaking local guides accompany sightseeing excursions and provide assistance with transfers as specified in the itinerary.

The mine visit involves underground tunnels, confined spaces, uneven surfaces and low ceilings. It may not be suitable for travellers with claustrophobia, mobility limitations or concerns about underground environments. Participation is subject to local safety conditions.

Yes. Several destinations are above 3,500m, and Potosí is approximately 4,060m. We recommend allowing time to acclimatise, staying well hydrated and discussing any concerns with your doctor before departure.

Comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, a windproof jacket, sun protection, sunglasses and a small daypack are recommended. Temperatures can vary considerably between daytime and evening, particularly on the high Altiplano.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and current Bolivia entry regulations, so travellers should check the latest requirements before departure.

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory for all World Expeditions travellers. Your policy must provide appropriate medical and emergency evacuation cover, including for travel at the altitudes reached on this journey.

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Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

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Our all inclusive approach

Uyuni Salt Flats and Potosi

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?