When to Visit the Uyuni Salt Flat

The Uyuni Salt Flat (Salar de Uyuni) in Potosí, Bolivia, was formed by the disappearance of an inland ocean that covered most of the Altiplano and extended all the way to the Titicaca lake. This body of water disappeared about 13,000 years ago.

It is an extraordinary experience to cross this lake of salt by car, especially during the winter, because at that time the sky is completely clear and the bright blue color of the sky contrasts brilliantly with the salt. On a cloudy day there is a "white-out" effect: the horizon seems to blend in with the sky and you can hardly tell where the salt lake actually ends.

Amid this shiny white desert there are idle polyhedral figures that seem to emerge from the ground; these forms have been formed by nature, mostly by the movement of the air.

The islands that are in the center are attractions that marvel the visitors.

The Uyuni Salt Flat can be visited all year long - even though the majority of the tour operators in the area strongly recommend the dry season of the year between April and October.

Rainy season (November to March)

During the rainy season the Uyuni Salt Flat is covered by about 20 cm of water and as a result it becomes a huge mirror reflecting the sky. Without doubt this is an amazing landscape worth to be appreciated and photographed. Another advantage of a visit during the rainy season is the presence of at least 25000 pink flamingos and other birds at the Colored Lagoon (Laguna Colorada).

The disadvantage of traveling during the rainy season is that the Galaxies cave and the Fish Island are covered by water, making it impossible to visit these attractions.

During the rainy season the roads are muddy and some vehicles experience technical problems.

Dry season (April to October)

The dry season is the most recommended period for a visit to the Uyuni Salt Flat. The octagonal salt formations can be appreciated in full and all the attractions of the area can be visited. June and July are considered to be the high season. Expect more tourist presence during this period.

Useful Tips:

- The best hours to visit and photograph the Colored Lagoon are between 11: 00 and 14:00 hours. During these hours the temperatures are higher and the sunlight is stronger - therefore the colors are more intense.

- The month December is when the Flamingos appear, so it is possible to observe large quantities of these beautiful birds bathing and feeding at the Colored Lagoon.

- Do not forget to bring warm clothes during the dry season, as temperatures can get rather low during this period. Perhaps even an extra blanket or sleeping bag will be necessary, as some of the hostels and hotels are known for a bit cold at night. Make sure that you have clothes that you can layer, as this will make it easier to stay comfortable in case you get too warm during a hike. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water – always bring more than you think you will need. Sun block is a good idea as well, since the sun in the desert can burn you even though it might feel quite chilly outside.

- Choose your tour agency carefully. It is often best to opt for a three to four day tour and visit all the attractions of the Salt Flat. Tour agencies that offer separate driver, guide and cook are the most recommended.

- Besides the Salt Desert, there are many more tourist attractions in the area that are worth visiting: the Village of Four Names, the Thunupa volcanoe and the mummies of Colquesa are just a few examples.

Uyuni Tours
Tours of the Uyuni Salt Flat