Imagine sleeping beneath a blanket of stars, gazing at the Milky Way stretched across the night sky, with the vast salt flats shimmering around you. That’s exactly what this 3-day Uyuni Deluxe Camping Tour offers. Starting from Potosí, Bolivia, this journey takes you to some of the most iconic sights in the region, all while providing a truly luxurious camping experience in the middle of one of the world’s most surreal landscapes. For $1,200 per person, you get two nights of comfort—one in a deluxe camper van right on the salt flats, and another at a four-star salt hotel—plus plenty of incredible sights and local flavors.
We love the unique blend of adventure and comfort—sleeping in a camper van with a star-studded sky above is a highlight, and the visits to places like Incahuasi Island and Tunupa Volcano give the trip a well-rounded feel. The chance to sample high-altitude wines and enjoy authentic Bolivian cuisine adds a delicious local touch. The main drawback? The tour’s price might seem steep, but considering the comfort, exclusive experience, and access to top sights, many will find the value justifies the cost. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an unforgettable salt flat adventure paired with some luxury and genuine local flavor.
Key Points
- Exclusive Experience: Sleep in a deluxe camper van on the salt flats, with a view of the stars and the Milky Way.
- Iconic Sites: Visit the train cemetery, salt mounds, Incahuasi Island, and Tunupa Volcano.
- Culinary Delights: Enjoy local food, high-altitude wines, and a relaxed atmosphere in scenic settings.
- Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, bilingual guides, all fees included, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
- Authentic Encounters: Explore traditional salt crafts at Colchani and visit the Stone Museum.
- Spectacular Views: Witness breathtaking sunsets, sunrises, and starry nights in the middle of the salt flats.
A Detailed Look at the Uyuni Deluxe Camping Tour
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Starting the Adventure in Uyuni
The trip begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation, whether in Uyuni or Potosí. From there, the first stop is at the train cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful stretch of rusted engines that tell stories of Bolivia’s rail history. It’s a surreal spot to start your journey, and it’s one of Bolivia’s most photographed landmarks. We loved the way this site sets a mystical tone for the trip, especially when the morning light hits the old trains.
Next, the tour heads to Colchani, a small village famous for its salt craft market. Here, you’ll find artisans selling everything from salt lamps to jewelry made of salt crystals. It’s a great chance to pick up souvenirs and understand how local communities have adapted to life alongside the salt flats. The market is lively, and the friendly vendors make it an enjoyable stop.
The Salt Flats and Lunch
From Colchani, you’ll visit the salt mounds, where you can walk atop the glistening white salt crust and snap some truly unique photos. The expansive salt surface offers so many playful angles—whether it’s close-up shots of salt crystals or wide shots of the horizon—that you’ll want your camera ready. We appreciated the generous time allocated here, allowing for creative shots and a relaxed atmosphere.
Midday, you’ll enjoy a box lunch amid the salt flats, featuring local food and surprisingly good high-altitude wines. Dining surrounded by salt flats with panoramic views is an experience in itself—there’s something about the silence and vastness that makes the meal taste even better. Several travelers, including those in reviews, have mentioned how much they enjoyed the local flavors, describing the food as delicious and authentic.
Incahuasi Island and Sunset Views
The next highlight is Incahuasi Island, a coral and cactus-covered formation in the middle of the salar. Walking up to the viewpoints, you’ll get a 360-degree view of the salt desert, a landscape so stark yet beautiful that it defies expectations. The giant cacti and petrified corals add texture and color, making it a photographer’s paradise. We loved how this stop mixes natural wonders with cultural intrigue.
As the day winds down, you’ll visit Ojos de Sal and witness the sunset over the salt flats. The changing light transforms the landscape, casting dramatic shadows and illuminating the salt crust in brilliant hues. It’s a moment that stays with you long after you leave—the perfect backdrop for reflection or just soaking in the incredible scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Night in a Deluxe Camper Van
The real magic happens when the sun sets. You’ll settle into your deluxe camper van, parked right on the salt flats, for an evening under the stars. The night sky here is utterly spectacular—on clear nights, you watch the Milky Way unfold overhead. The experience of lying in a cozy camper, watching the universe above, is something you won’t find in many other places.
A delicious dinner awaits, prepared en route by your guide. The combination of good food, fresh air, and a celestial display makes for a memorable night. Several reviewers, including Jourdan, have praised the “superb” guide, Jeannette, for making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Day Two: Volcano, Museum, and Salt Hotel
The next morning begins with a hearty buffet breakfast, a welcome treat after a starry night. Then, the tour heads toward the Tunupa Volcano, visiting the Stone Museum in Chantani and climbing to the volcano’s top. The walk offers great views and a chance to stretch your legs while learning about the volcanic landscape and local geology.
Later, you’ll visit the town of Colchani again, but this time to explore more and perhaps buy some last souvenirs. The night’s accommodation here is a 4-star salt hotel, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable room in a building made entirely of salt blocks—an unusual, yet surprisingly cozy, experience.
Final Day: Return and Reflection
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you back to Uyuni airport for your departure. Throughout the journey, the private transportation, bilingual guides, and all fees included make this a smooth and organized experience. We found that the attention to detail, from the food to the stops, made the trip feel special yet hassle-free.
Why This Tour Stands Out
What makes this tour worth the price? Primarily, it’s the luxurious camping experience in the middle of a vast salt desert, combined with visits to iconic sites like Incahuasi Island and Tunupa Volcano. The star-gazing opportunity is genuinely unique and often cited as a highlight in reviews. Plus, the inclusion of authentic local food and a comfortable hotel stay at the end of the journey ensures you’re well-fed and rested.
However, keep in mind the price point: $1,200 may be steep for some, especially considering the cash outlay for a relatively short trip. But when you weigh this against the comfort, exclusive access, and overall quality, many find it offers good value—especially if you are looking for a more intimate, high-end experience.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic Bolivian culture. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic salt flats experience, enjoy star-gazing, and appreciate good food and personalized service, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s also well-suited for those who don’t mind paying a premium for convenience, private transport, and a well-curated itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
You get dinners, lunches, and breakfast across the three days, private transportation, all fees and taxes, hotel pickup and drop-off, and two nights of accommodation—one in a deluxe camper van and one in a salt hotel. A professional bilingual guide is also part of the package.
What should I bring?
Travelers should pack their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. These items will help you enjoy the outdoors comfortably and protect you from the high-altitude sun.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the experience is generally suitable for most healthy adults, the walking involved (like the hike to Tunupa Volcano) may be challenging for very young children or travelers with mobility issues.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility helps if your travel plans change unexpectedly.
How is the accommodation arranged?
The first night is in a luxurious camper van parked on the salt flats, offering a unique overnight experience under the stars. The second night is spent at a local salt hotel, providing comfortable, salt-built accommodations.
What makes this tour different from others?
The highlight is the deluxe camping experience—sleeping in a camper right in the salt flats—combined with visits to key sights, scenic sunsets, and the opportunity to star-gaze. It’s a more intimate and comfortable way to experience Uyuni compared to standard day trips.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, this private group tour can be taken alone or with friends. The personalized service and private transportation make it a comfortable choice for solo travelers wanting a tailored experience.
What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, the clear skies needed for star-gazing suggest avoiding the rainy season, which typically falls from November to March. For the best experience, consider visiting during the dry season.
Final Thoughts
In the end, this Uyuni: Deluxe Camping 3 Days Tour offers a memorable blend of adventure and comfort, making it stand out among salt flat tours. The chance to sleep amidst salt flats, marvel at the starry sky, and enjoy authentic Bolivian cuisine makes for a truly special experience. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize unique environments, high-quality amenities, and meaningful local encounters. If you’re ready to splurge a bit for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most surreal landscapes, this tour deserves your consideration.
Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the starry nights, or the chance to explore iconic sites like Incahuasi Island and Tunupa Volcano, this tour promises a picture-perfect adventure in Bolivia’s salt desert. Just remember to bring your sense of wonder—and maybe a good camera!
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