Laguna Colorada — red salt lake with flamingos and snow-capped volcanoes
4 Days / 3 Nights Easy – Moderate Max altitude: 5,000m May – October Private vehicle

Salar & Lagoons
from Tupiza

Bolivia's most iconic journey — from rust-red canyons to the blinding infinity of the world's largest salt flat.

What's Included

  • 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian option always available)
  • 3 nights accommodation — basic shared-bath lodges
  • 1 night in a salt lodge at Puerto Chuvica
  • Private 4×4 vehicle throughout
  • Experienced local driver-guide
  • Guide in English OR Spanish (your choice)
  • All in-route transport

Not Included

(payable in cash on the day, approx. 270 BOB / €35)

  • National park entrance fees (Eduardo Avaroa Reserve)
  • Public toilet fees along the route
  • Optional hot showers at lodges
  • Personal travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for your guide (appreciated)
  • Alcoholic drinks

Day by Day

The Itinerary

Day 1

Into South Lípez

Departing Tupiza, we head south through spectacular canyon country. The red rock formations of El Sillar and the ghost town of Pueblo Fantasma set the tone for what lies ahead. We arrive at Quetena for the night as the stars appear.

Highlights

Cañons PalalaEl Sillar PassCiudad del EncantoPueblo FantasmaLaguna MorejónQuetena
Day 2

The Altiplano's Palette

The most dramatic day. Geysers erupting at 4,850m as the sun rises, Dalí's desert of rust and ochre, and the crimson waters of Laguna Colorada — home to thousands of flamingos. This is the Bolivia of postcards, made real.

Highlights

Laguna Hedionda (flamingos)Salar Chalviri & hot springsDesierto de DalíLaguna Verde & BlancaGeysers Sol de MañanaLaguna Colorada
Day 3

Approaches to the Salt

The landscape shifts again: rock formations shaped by centuries of wind, dark lagoons surrounded by white salt. Tonight we sleep on salt blocks in Puerto Chuvica — and if skies are clear, the Milky Way arch is unlike anything you have seen.

Highlights

Italia PerdidaCamello Sentado (Camel Rock)Laguna NegraValle de RocasPuerto Chuvica — salt lodgeVia Láctea stargazing
Day 4

Salar de Uyuni

The world's largest salt flat stretches to every horizon. We reach Isla del Pescado as the sun rises, then spend the morning crossing the blinding white. Final stop: the Train Cemetery on the edge of Uyuni — and a meal to celebrate.

Highlights

Isla del Pescado (Inkawasi) at dawnSalt EyesMonumento DakarColchani salt villageCemitério de los TrenesArrival in Uyuni

The Journey in Photos

Gallery

Red rock canyons of South Lípez
Flamingos at a high-altitude lagoon
Volcanic landscape near Laguna Verde
Geysers erupting at Sol de Mañana at altitude
Salar de Uyuni at dawn, perfect reflection
Valle de Rocas bizarre stone formations
Expedition vehicle on the altiplano track
Coloured lagoon at sunset
Salt flat horizon — nothing but white

Before You Go

Practical Information

Altitude

Up to 5,000m

Geysers Sol de Mañana — acclimatise in Tupiza first

Best Season

May – October

Dry season — clearest skies, firmest salt, best flamingos

Route

Tupiza → Uyuni

Also available in reverse: Uyuni → Tupiza

Guide Language

English or Spanish

Specify your preference when you inquire

New to high altitude? Read our altitude & safety guide →