Starting Point: San Pedro de Atacama

While we will be departing from Chile, our final destination is located in Bolivia. San Pedro de Atacama, in the north of Chile, is really close to the border with Bolivia, giving travelers the exceptional chance to see both territories on their way to this unique salt flat.

Departure from San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama, the charming little village in the heart of the most arid desert on the planet, will be our point of departure in this journey. Incidentally, our blog features special posts about this destination and its wide range of activities for all tastes. Yet, our post today will be centered on this 3-day ride towards Uyuni and the natural wonders all along the way.

It may interest you: What are the recommended visits from San Pedro de Atacama?

San Pedro de Atacama

Itinerary

Ideally, this journey should be made in the company of certified guides who will ensure the travelers´ safety. The features of the territory call for prior knowledge in the event of any challenge. In Chile On The Go we offer the experience of our specialized guides, who have made a host of journeys between the two countries for over 7 years now.

Back to our trip, this takes between three and four days, depending on whether it culminates in Uyuni or back in San Pedro. This duration makes it possible for travelers to get to know the most outstanding attractions in the area and while at it, experience a journey filled with sensations and a diversity of sceneries that are sure to win everybody´s heart.

Itinerary from San Pedro de Atacama to Salar de Uyuni

Attractions. A memorable trip

Besides the salt flat, visitors will get to see other fascinating places. We have designed a strategic itinerary for them to make the most of their time in the best way possible. The first day, travelers will make a stop at Hito Cajón, also known as Portezuelo Cajón, where they will comply with the migratory proceedings and why not indulge in some gastronomic sample of the region. Once again on the road, travelers will reach the dazzling Laguna Blanca and Laguna Verde at the foot of the famous Licancabur Volcano. The day will come to an end with the stretch between the Salvador Dalí Desert, also known as Dalí Valley, the thermal springs and the Sol de Mañana Geysers to the south of Bolivia. Finally, and as the sun sets in the west, travelers will be able to admire thousands of flamingoes in Laguna Colorada.

The second day offers a connection with the history of the continent through the visit to the rock paintings and Valle de las Rocas, where visitors may contemplate the diverse rocky formations. The next stop will be in Laguna Negra, to then continue to Laguna Catal and the Cañón de Catal.

After traveling past the major attractions on the route and through the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve of Andean Fauna, the third day will finally come, and with it, the expected visit to the famous salt flat.

Laguna Verde & Licancabur Volcano

El Salar de Uyuni!

Standing in this seemingly boundless bright white surface, visitors can´t help feeling overwhelmed by the beauty and magnificence of the world’s largest salt flat (covering almost 11,000 square kilometers), which can be seen from space as a great white spot on the planet.

In the blink of an eye, travelers will be taken from one of the most breathtaking deserts on Earth to an “unreal” one, that is, the largest and highest (some 3,600 meters above sea level) salt desert in the world, where viewing two “skies” becomes suddenly possible.

Salar de Uyuni

Where to stay

Palacio de Sal

This hotel is one big favorite among travelers from around the world, and for good reason. In this comfortable accommodation with beautiful surroundings, the furniture, decoration, and infrastructure are all made from salt, the great protagonist in the area.

Some tips

– As it is a much sought-after tour, we recommend booking ahead of time and with a reliable agency that will ensure security throughout the journey. In COTG we may provide you with all the relevant information.

– Once in Uyuni, we advise using guides when engaging in any of the activities offered. Don´t embark on a solo journey as you may get lost.

– Salar de Uyuni may be visited throughout the year. However, the period from December to April happens to be especially attractive. How come? This is the rainy season, and given the features of the soil, the rain creates a mirror effect that makes the place look like something out of a movie.

– Set aside enough time for each place on the itinerary. Every stop is well worth it!

– Please remember that you will be crossing the border, so you must carry with you a copy of your passport as well as all the required documents.

– Yellow Fever vaccination is required to enter Bolivia.

– It is always best to arrive a few days before in order to adjust to the altitude.