Excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flat From San Pedro De Atacama

Exploring the Uyuni Salt Flat from San Pedro de Atacama is a must-do for anyone visiting northern Chile. This 3-day excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness some of the region’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Travelers can expect to encounter awe-inspiring landscapes, from the iconic Volcán Lincancabur to the otherworldly Incahuasi Island. With meals, accommodations, and permits included, it’s a seamless way to take in this incredible destination. But the real question is – what unexpected delights await those who embark on this extraordinary adventure?

Key Points

• The 3-day excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flat departs from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, and is priced at $891.00 per person.
• The tour includes private transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and basic accommodations in shared hostels and lodges.
• The itinerary highlights natural wonders like Volcán Lincancabur, the Green and White Lagoons, and the Uyuni Salt Flat.
• Meals, entrance fees, and border crossing formalities are all included in the tour package.
• Access to Incahuasi Island may be restricted during the rainy season, requiring flexible itinerary adjustments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flat from San Pedro de Atacama is priced from $891.00 per person and lasts 3 days, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The tour includes private transportation in a 4×4 vehicle with roof racks, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and select meals.

Accommodations are basic, with the first night in a shared hostel room and the second night in a shared lodge with private restrooms.

Taxes and entrance fees to sites like the Incahuasi Island and Eduardo Avaroa Reserve are covered in the price.

The tour’s itinerary features highlights like the Volcan Lincancabur, lagoons, and salt flats.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s first day takes guests on a journey through stunning natural wonders, including the Volcán Lincancabur, the Green and White Lagoons, the Polques Hot Springs, the Morning Sun Geysers, and the Red Lagoon teeming with flamingos, before an overnight stay in a basic hostel in Huayllajara.

Day two begins with breakfast at 7:00 AM, followed by highlights such as the Stone Tree, the Siloli Desert, the Cañapa Lagoon, the Hedionda Lagoon, the Chiarcota Lagoon, the Ollague Volcano Viewpoint, and the Valley of Rocks, with an overnight stay in a basic lodge in Agencha.

On the final day, guests will visit the Uyuni Salt Flat, Incahuasi Island, a salt hotel museum, the Flags of the World, the Dakar Monument, and Colchani before returning to Uyuni City.

Included Meals and Accommodations

Included in the tour package are private transportation in a 4×4 vehicle with roof racks, along with an English/Spanish-speaking guide. Travelers will enjoy 3 lunches, 2 dinners, and 2 breakfasts during the 3-day excursion. The accommodations for the first and second nights are basic hostels and lodges, with shared rooms and private restrooms. The table below outlines the accommodation details:

Night	Location	Room Type
1	Huayllajara	Shared Room (6 beds)
2	Agencha	Shared Room (2-3 beds), Private Restrooms
3	N/A	N/A

The tour also includes various taxes and entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flat.

Border Crossing and Entrance Fees

Travelers’ journey begins with the Chile-Bolivia border crossing at Hito Cajón, where they must complete the necessary migration formalities.

The tour package covers the Bolivian border tax of 15 BOB per person. Once across the border, the group will encounter a series of entrance fees:

1. Incahuasi Island: 30 BOB per person

2. Eduardo Avaroa Reserve: 150 BOB per person

3. Natural hot springs: 6 BOB per person

4. Baths on the way: 30 BOB per person

These fees provide access to the stunning landscapes and natural wonders that make this excursion so captivating.

Travelers can expect a seamless experience, with all necessary permits and entrance costs covered as part of the comprehensive tour package.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Incahuasi Island Access

Access to Incahuasi Island may not be possible during the rainy season, which typically spans from January to April. This is an important consideration for travelers planning their Uyuni Salt Flat excursion, as the island’s closure could impact the overall itinerary.

Incahuasi Island, a notable highlight of the tour, is only accessible when weather conditions permit. During the wet months, rising water levels may restrict access to the island, preventing visitors from exploring its unique geological features and salt sculptures.

Travelers should check with their tour operator about the current status of Incahuasi Island accessibility and be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly. Flexibility and understanding the potential challenges are key to enjoying a successful Uyuni Salt Flat experience.

Possible Accommodation Changes

While the itinerary give you consistent accommodations, the tour operator notes that changes to the lodging may occur due to factors impacting road access.

Travelers should expect the possibility of adjustments to the planned hostels or lodges, particularly on the second night, if weather or other conditions require an alternate location. Flexibility and understanding from participants is appreciated, as the tour operator works to provide the best available options given logistical considerations.

The tour operator may need to make the following changes to the planned accommodations:

1. Substituting a different basic lodge in the Agencha area.

2. Arranging shared rooms with private restrooms instead of the initially listed double rooms.

3. Providing sleeping arrangements in a basic hostel rather than a lodge.

4. Adjusting the number of beds per room depending on availability.

Meeting Point and Booking

The tour picks up participants directly from their hotels in San Pedro de Atacama, with pickup times scheduled between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This means travelers don’t have to worry about finding the meeting point – they’ll be collected right from their accommodation.

Booking the excursion is straightforward as well. Participants simply need to select their desired date and number of people. The tour operator will then reserve the spot, with no upfront payment required.

Travelers can pay later, making it easy to plan and secure their spot on this 3-day adventure to the stunning Uyuni Salt Flat. With a convenient pickup location and flexible booking, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore this natural wonder.

Purchasing Salt Crafts and Textiles

Visitors can purchase a variety of handcrafted salt items and traditional textiles in the town of Colchani, located at the edge of the Uyuni Salt Flat. This quaint village is known for its thriving cottage industry, where local artisans showcase their skills.

Shoppers can find:

1. Intricately carved salt lamps and figurines

2. Colorful woven blankets, ponchos, and bags

3. Decorative salt bricks and tiles

4. Unique jewelry pieces infused with Bolivian flair

These souvenirs make for excellent mementos of the Uyuni adventure. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the artisans, learn about their craft, and support the local economy by purchasing these one-of-a-kind items.

The Colchani market is a must-visit stop on any Uyuni Salt Flat excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Prepare for the High Altitude During the Tour?

To prepare for high altitude, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take it easy the first day. Wear layers and bring altitude sickness medication if needed. Gradual acclimation is key to prevent altitude-related issues and enjoy the tour.

What Should I Pack for the Varying Weather Conditions?

Pack layers for varied conditions – lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days, insulated jackets and pants for cool nights, and sturdy, weatherproof boots. Include sun protection, light rain gear, and warm accessories like hats and gloves to stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Are There Any Health or Safety Concerns I Should Be Aware Of?

Travelers should be aware of high elevation, potential altitude sickness, and dehydration. Proper hydration, layered clothing, and acclimatization are recommended. Travelers should also check with their doctor about any necessary vaccinations or medications prior to the trip.

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary or Add Extra Activities?

The tour operator may allow minor changes to the itinerary or extra activities. However, they’ll likely have set logistics and pricing, so significant alterations may not be possible. It’s best to check with the provider about any customization options.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, you can reserve your spot and pay nothing today, allowing flexibility with your travel plans.

Recap

This excursion to the Uyuni Salt Flat offers an unforgettable 3-day adventure, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders.

With private transportation, meals, accommodations, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, travelers can enjoy a seamless experience exploring one of the world’s most unique destinations.

The tour’s highlights, including Volcán Lincancabur, Incahuasi Island, and the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Atacama region.

You can check if your dates are available here: