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.

Lunch at Uyuni Salt Flats: A unique dining experience on the endless salt flats.

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

Uyuni Salt Flats and Potosi

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

Discover Bolivia's vast terrain from the Andes to the Atacama

Bolivia

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6 reviews

8 Days from

Trip Code: BEX

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Essential Information

Duration

8 Days

Activities

8 days adventure touring

Accommodation

7 nights hotel

Meals

2 Dinners
2 Lunches
8 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

Cross the world's largest salt flats, Salar de Uyuni
Immerse in the sights and sounds of the bustling city of La Paz
Explore the colonial city of Potosi, sitting at 4090m
Visit the Tiahuanaco archaeological site, the administrative and religious heart of pre-Incan civilisation
Visit Pucara Ayque to see the mummies of Coquesa in the foothills of the Tunupa volcano
Enjoy a fascinating tour of Cerro Rico

Overview

Our adventure begins in La Paz and journeys on to the Tiahuanaco archaeological site, which was the administrative and religious heart of pre-Incan civilisation that began in the year 237 BC and endured for over 1400 years. After a flight to Uyuni, we watch the locals producing salt at Colchani and we cross the world's largest salt flat, the stunning Salar de Uyuni, to 'Isla Incahuasi' an island situated in the centre of the salt flat made of rock formations and home to a species of cactus aged at 700 years, we even overnight at a salt hotel. We visit the pre-Columbian fort ruins of Pucara Ayque to see the mummies of Coquesa in the foothills of the Tunupa volcano and then onto Potosi, one of the highest cities in the world with an elevation of 4090 m. We take a city tour of the colonial city of Potosi followed by a tour of Cerro Rico or Mount of Riches, because of the incredibly large amount of silver that has been mined from it. Our adventure culminates in Sucre where we visit the House of the Liberty (Casa de la Libertad), where the Act of Independence of Bolivia was signed in 1825 and Bolivar Park to see examples of the aristocratic tradition of Sucre. We also visit the Museum of La Recoleta and the museum of Indian Textiles. Our trip concludes with a flight back to the thriving La Paz for one last night.

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. Overnight: Ritz Apart Hotel, La Paz (or similar).

Meals: B

This morning, we'll transfer to La Paz Airport for our flight to Uyuni. Please note that these flights are unescorted and only operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Upon arrival in Uyuni, you'll be greeted by your second local guide, who will accompany the group until Day 7. The guide will also join you on the regular bus trip from Potosi to Sucre. Upon arrival into Uyuni, we will have a morning trip to Colchani to see locals producing salt, we enter this natural wonder of the nature of salt, with over 10.582 km2, crossing to “Isla Incahuasi” (2 hours). This area has a special habitat of volcanic rocks and giant cactus. Please note that Uyuni experiences a dry season from April to November and a wet season from November to March. During the rainy season, certain areas may be restricted due to safety concerns and in accordance with local regulations. These restrictions may be announced in advance or enforced on short notice, sometimes with immediate effect. Please be aware and follow the instructions of your local guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Even if there are changes to your itinerary, we will ensure that you still get to experience activities that are equivalent and just as immersive. We return to Colchani, to overnight in the first salt hotel in the shores of the salt flats. This is the perfect location to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Overnight: Palacio de Sal Hotel (or similar).

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we embark on a journey through the awe-inspiring Uyuni salt flats, spanning over 12,000 km² of pristine salt landscape. Our excursion includes a stop at the iconic "Stairs to Heaven," a remarkable installation by renowned Bolivian artist Gaston Ugalde. Situated in the heart of the Uyuni salt flat, this staircase is uniquely constructed from salt, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience. We'll then proceed to the Coquesa mummies, located in the foothills of the majestic Tunupa Volcano, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Return to our hotel for overnight. Overnight: Palacio de Sal Hotel (or similar).

Meals: B,L,D

This morning enjoy a trip crossing branches of the Andes Range with great landscapes, old mines and Indian villages en route to the mining city of Potosi (4 hours). In the afternoon we will tour this lovely colonial city, seeing the famous Mint House, colonial churches and have a stroll through town. Potosi is one of the highest cities in the world at 4090 metres and it was the location of the Spanish colonial mint for centuries. NOTE - Museums in Potosi 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 Potosi city tour, can be visited the next day at no extra cost. If this cannot occur, we will substitute with visits to alternative attractions. Overnight: Hostal Colonial (or similar).

Meals: B

Today you have the chance to visit a mine to see the remains of the silver production in the famous Silver Mountain. The mine is still a working mine and the visit involves going underground into small and cramped tunnels with very low ceilings. This might be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and if you are claustrophobic we suggest to take a wander through the city instead. In the afternoon you’ll take a regular bus to Sucre, descending from the highlands to the lower valleys, crossing the Pilcomayo River, to finally reach the colonial city of Sucre (3 - 4 hours). Overnight: Hostal De Su Merced (or similar).

Meals: B

Today you’ll visit the House of the Liberty (Casa de la Libertad), where the Act of Independence of Bolivia was signed in 1825, the Bolivar Park, to see examples of the aristocratic tradition of Sucre, with small replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc of Triumph of Paris. You will also visit the church and museum of La Recoleta, and the museum of Indian Textiles ASUR. The afternoon will be at your leisure. 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. Overnight: Hostal De Su Merced (or similar).

Meals: B

Today's activities are tailored around your flight schedule to La Paz. Depending on the day of the week, your transfer to the airport and subsequent flight to La Paz will depart either in the morning or evening, although please be aware that flight schedules are subject to change. This schedule allows you either to enjoy the day in Sucre, with the opportunity for a relaxed morning, or to have free time in La Paz to explore at your leisure. Once you arrive in La Paz, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Overnight: Ritz Apart Hotel, La Paz (or similar).

Meals: B

After breakfast, you will have a transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

29 scheduled departures between 24 Oct 2026 and 29 Dec 2026.

Departs 24 Oct 2026 – ends 31 Oct 2026 (8 days)
Departs 27 Oct 2026 – ends 3 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 29 Oct 2026 – ends 5 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 31 Oct 2026 – ends 7 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 3 Nov 2026 – ends 10 Nov 2026 (8 days)
Departs 5 Nov 2026 – ends 12 Nov 2026 (8 days)
… and 23 more departures.

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What's included?

Included

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners
Expert bilingual local sightseeing guides on the trip for each section
Flights La Paz/Uyuni and Sucre/La Paz, valued at approx US$249
Non private tourist class bus from Potosi to Sucre
Comfortable and central hotels
Sightseeing and site entrance fees as listed
Airport transfers (days 2, 7 and 8 only)

Not included

Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
International flights and departure taxes
Items of a personal nature (ie. laundry, phone calls, tipping)
Travel insurance
Visas and vaccinations
Aerated and alcoholic drinks and bottled water
Arrival airport transfers

About your guide

Support is provided for transfers to and from bus stations and 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?

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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Uyuni Salt Flats and Potosi

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?