Uyuni: 2-Day Salar de Uyuni and Train Cemetery Tour

Uyuni: 2-Day Salar de Uyuni and Train Cemetery Tour

Imagine traversing the vast, shimmering Salt Flats of Uyuni, exploring hauntingly beautiful train wrecks, and flamingo-filled lagoons—all within a two-day adventure from Potosí. At $120 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of southern Bolivia’s most iconic sights. Led by a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide, the tour is limited to small groups of 10, ensuring a personal experience that feels more like exploring with friends than being herded around.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances stunning landscapes with cultural touchpoints—from the rusting remains of the Train Cemetery to the cactus-dotted Incahuasi Island. The inclusion of three different lagoons, each with distinct colors and flamingos, adds a splash of wildlife and natural beauty that makes the experience truly immersive. Plus, the sunset view over the water mirrors on the flats delivers a moment that stays in your memory long after you leave.

A potential consideration is the long hours of driving—from about 6:00 AM start on Day 2 to the evening return—so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or who struggle with altitude and physical discomfort might find it a bit demanding. However, for those who want a full, vivid snapshot of the region, this tour hits all the highlights.

This experience suits travelers eager to see one of the world’s most surreal landscapes, appreciate its natural beauty, and learn about local history—all without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for adventurous types, first-time visitors to Bolivia, or anyone craving a memorable photo and story-filled trip.

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Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: The salt flats, lagoons, and water mirrors create perfect photo opportunities and unforgettable scenery.
• Authentic Highlights: Visits to the Train Cemetery and Incahuasi Island offer cultural flair alongside natural beauty.
• Wildlife Watching: At least three lagoons host hundreds of flamingos, adding lively color to the landscape.
• Local Cuisine: A tasty traditional Bolivian lunch is included, providing a genuine taste of the region.
• Small Group Service: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and flexible pacing.
• Value for Money: At $120, the trip covers all major sights and includes entrance fees, making it a solid deal.

Detailed Review of the Uyuni 2-Day Tour

Introduction to the Tour

Starting from Uyuni, this two-day tour is tailored for those who don’t want to miss the iconic sights in this part of Bolivia but are conscious of their budget and schedule. The tour is operated by Sierra Travel, with Spanish-speaking guides leading you through some of the most photogenic landscapes on the planet.

At the core of the trip are visits to the famous Train Cemetery, the Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni), and a handful of vibrant lagoons. It’s a package designed to showcase both the natural beauty and the quirky cultural relics that make Uyuni so special. The price of $120 per person is quite competitive, especially considering that all entrance fees, a local lunch, and key sites are included.

Day 1: History, Salt, and the Land of Pyramids

The day begins with a visit to the Train Cemetery, just a few kilometers from Uyuni. These rusting locomotives from the 19th century evoke a sense of Bolivia’s history of mining and railways. As one traveler put it, “It’s a hauntingly beautiful place, perfect for those gritty photos and a reminder of the region’s past.”

Next, you head to Colchani, a tiny town famous for salt production. Here, locals craft salt-based souvenirs and crafts, providing a glimpse into the region’s traditional industries. It’s a chance to pick up unique, handmade items—something we always appreciate when traveling.

From there, your focus shifts to the Salar de Uyuni itself. This expanse of over 10,000 km² of salt creates an otherworldly landscape. You’ll see small piles of salt shaped like pyramids, a classic scene that makes for interesting photos and understanding how salt is harvested.

Arriving at Incahuasi Island, you’ll encounter a massive cactus garden rising from the salt, offering sweeping views and an ideal photo backdrop. The island is a highlight, especially for nature lovers and those interested in botany, given its cacti and birdlife.

The afternoon takes you to the Dakar Monument, a quirky tribute that’s popular for photography. We loved the way it offers a break from the expansive salt flats while still providing a striking scene to capture.

A delicious local lunch prepares you for the afternoon, during which you’ll witness the spectacular sunset over the flats, where the water mirrors the sky, creating the illusion of walking on clouds. It’s a moment that makes you realize how vast and surreal this landscape really is.

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Day 2: Lagoons, Flamingos, and Scenic Vistas

Day 2 kicks off around 9:30 AM, giving you a comfortable start to explore more of the region’s natural wonders. Your first stop is the Cañapa Lagoon, famous for its flamingos and colorful waters. Moving onto Hedionda Lagoon, known for its mineral-rich waters, and Chulluncani Lagoon, each with distinctive hues and wildlife, mostly hundreds of flamingos.

These lagoons are part of the High-Plateau Lagoons, and their different colors and birdlife make them a standout feature. Thanks to the small group size, we felt like we had plenty of time to soak it all in and appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.

Throughout the day, the landscape shifts from salt flats to volcanic formations and colorful lagoons, giving a sense of Bolivia’s geological diversity. The tour ends around 6:00 PM back in Uyuni, providing ample time to process the experience and plan your next steps.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all major stops, including entrance to Incahuasi Island, local lunch, Visit to the Train Cemetery, Colchani, and three lagoons. Also included are tickets to the water mirrors for sunset views, which are particularly photogenic.

However, it’s important to note that entrance fees to hot springs and Pulacayo, as well as guides for biking or extra excursions, are not included. Also, travelers should be aware that bus tickets are not covered, so plan accordingly if you’re connecting to other destinations.

Travel logistics: Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be traveling in a comfortable vehicle suitable for rough terrain, with a small group limited to 10 participants. This ensures a more personalized experience, with your guide able to answer questions and adapt to your timing preferences.

The timing is essential—early starts and long drives are part of the adventure. The tour is designed for those who enjoy scenery and don’t mind the altitude and extended hours on the road. It’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or back issues.

The Experience: Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its authenticity. The guides are Spanish-speaking, which can be a challenge for non-Spanish speakers, but it also means you get a real local perspective. The included lunch is a genuine Bolivian meal, adding flavor to the experience beyond just the visuals.

Travelers have expressed appreciation for the stunning views—including the water mirrors that reflect the sky—making it clear that this tour delivers on its promise of surreal, memorable scenery. The small group size and flexible itinerary help make the experience feel intimate rather than touristy.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Uyuni tour offers solid value for travelers eager to see Bolivia’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. With its carefully curated stops—ranging from historical train wrecks and salt pyramids to flamingo-filled lagoons and dazzling water mirrors—it balances natural wonder with cultural insight.

If you’re looking for a photographically rich experience and want to avoid large group tours, this package should fit well. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate a bit of history, wildlife, and stunning scenery all packed into just two days.

While the long hours and altitude might be a challenge for some, the awe-inspiring landscapes and unique sights make it a trip worth considering. Every stop is carefully chosen to give you a full taste of what makes Uyuni so unforgettable, ensuring you leave with plenty of stories—and plenty of photos.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly due to the long hours, altitude, and physical demands.

What languages are the guides?
The tour is led by a Spanish-speaking guide; if you don’t speak Spanish, you might find some challenges, but guides often attempt to communicate key points clearly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are essential. The high altitude and sun exposure mean you’ll want to be prepared.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch is included on Day 1, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

What is not included in the tour?
Entrance to hot springs, Pulacayo, additional guides, bus tickets, and extra expenses are not included.

How is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, which helps ensure a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

This tour stands out as a well-rounded introduction to Bolivia’s surreal salt flats and flamingo lagoons—perfect for those seeking a snapshot of this dramatic landscape without a multi-day commitment. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or history buff, you’ll find plenty to marvel at and cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby