Uyuni Salt Flat: From Puno | 3 Days

Venture across the mesmerizing Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, on a captivating 3-day journey from Puno. Explore the vibrant streets of La Paz, uncover the island oasis of Incahuasi, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Pomata and Juli. This comprehensive itinerary promises breathtaking vistas, unique experiences, and a deeper understanding of the remarkable region that straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. Embark on this unforgettable adventure, and discover why the Uyuni Salt Flat is considered one of the most stunning natural wonders on Earth.

Key Points

• 3-day tour from Puno to Uyuni Salt Flat, with visits to La Paz, Incahuasi Island, and historic sites in Pomata and Juli.
• Tour price starts from $250 per person, with a group size limited to 15 participants and a Spanish-speaking guide.
• Itinerary includes a border crossing between Peru and Bolivia, a cable car ride in La Paz, and a 4×4 tour of the Uyuni Salt Flat.
• Lunch on Day 2 is included, while other meals are at personal expense.
• Tour not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals with respiratory issues/high blood pressure due to high altitude and challenging terrain.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive 3-day journey from Puno to the renowned Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia.

The destination is the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Flat, and the tour duration is 3 days, priced from $250 per person.

The group size is limited to 15 participants, with a Spanish-speaking guide.

Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reservations can be made with a pay-later option.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure.

Travelers should bring their passport, camera, visa (if required), cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Itinerary

The tour begins on Day 1 with a pick-up from the traveler’s hotel in Puno and a transfer to the city terminal. After crossing the Peru-Bolivia border, the group will explore La Paz, including a cable car ride, colonial district tour, and visits to landmarks like the San Francisco Church and Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz. The second day is dedicated to the Salar de Uyuni, with stops at the Uyuni train cemetery, salt extraction process in Colchani, and Incahuasi Island. On the final day, the group will cross back into Peru, visiting Pomata and Juli before returning to Puno.

Day	Destination	Activities
1	Puno to La Paz	Border crossing, La Paz exploration
2	Salar de Uyuni	4×4 tour, Incahuasi Island
3	La Paz to Puno	Border crossing, Pomata and Juli visits

Day 1: Puno to La Paz

The tour begins with a pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Puno and a transfer to the city terminal.

From there, the group crosses the border between Peru and Bolivia, stopping for lunch along the way at their own expense.

Once in La Paz, they’ll take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the city, followed by a guided tour of the colonial district.

The tour highlights key landmarks such as the 16 de Julio and Mariscal Santa Cruz avenues, the San Francisco Church, Plaza Murillo, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz.

After the city exploration, the travelers have free time for dinner before boarding the bus to Uyuni.

Day 2: Salar De Uyuni

Upon arrival in Uyuni in the morning, travelers make their first stop for breakfast at their own expense.

They then embark on a 4×4 tour, visiting the Uyuni train cemetery, the Colchani salt-extraction site, and the Playa Blanca hotel made entirely of salt blocks. A regional lunch is provided during the day.

The tour then heads to Incahuasi Island, where travelers explore the cacti and take scenic photographs before returning to Uyuni.

In the evening, travelers have free time to rest, shop, and dine before boarding the bus to La Paz at 8:00 p.m.

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Day 3: La Paz to Puno

Arriving early in the morning, travelers first reach La Paz before continuing their journey to the border crossing at Desaguadero.

There, they’ll have a breakfast stop at their own expense.

Next, the tour visits the colonial temple of Santiago Apostle in Pomata.

In Juli, they’ll explore either the temple of San Juan de Letran or Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

Finally, the group returns to Puno, where they’ll be dropped off at their hotel around 1:00 p.m.

This concludes the 3-day Uyuni Salt Flat tour from Puno.

Inclusions

This tour includes a pick-up and transfer back to the hotel, as well as transportation via bus/minibus and 4×4 vehicle.

The tour also features a Spanish-speaking guide to lead the group. Lunch on Day 2 is included, as are all entrance fees.

Breakfasts and dinners are also provided, though lunches on Days 1 and 3 are at your own expense.

The itinerary covers a range of activities, from exploring La Paz to visiting the Uyuni salt flat and Incahuasi Island.

Important Information

This tour may not be suitable for certain individuals due to the demands of the itinerary.

Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure should avoid this tour.

Participants will need to bring their passport or ID card, a camera, any necessary visas, cash, weather-appropriate clothing, and a first aid kit.

The high altitude and challenging terrain may pose difficulties for some travelers.

While the tour provides a comprehensive experience of the Uyuni Salt Flat, it’s essential to consider one’s physical capabilities before booking.

Proper preparation and packing can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Additional Notes

Lodging isn’t included in the tour package, and you will be required to travel overnight between La Paz and Uyuni on the bus.

This overnight journey allows for an efficient itinerary, but means travelers will need to make their own accommodation arrangements.

The tour covers the major highlights, including:

• Visiting the Uyuni Salt Flat, one of the world’s most unique natural wonders
• Exploring the colonial charm of La Paz, Bolivia’s vibrant capital
• Crossing the Peru-Bolivia border, with a stop for lunch along the way
• Discovering historic sites like the Pomata church and the temples in Juli

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate changes to the itinerary, group size, or other aspects based on your needs and requests.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point in Puno?

The tour operator provides hotel pick-up in Puno to transfer you to the city terminal where the journey begins. From there, you’ll cross the border into Bolivia and continue on to explore the Uyuni Salt Flat.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 3 Days?

Unfortunately, the tour overview does not mention any option to extend the tour beyond 3 days. The package is specifically described as a 3-day tour from Puno to the Uyuni Salt Flat. Extending the duration would likely require booking a separate, longer tour.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

Participants can bring a reasonable amount of luggage on the tour, but it’s recommended to pack light as storage space is limited on the bus and 4×4 vehicle. The tour operator suggests a small bag or backpack per person.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for young children or infants due to the long travel times and challenging terrain.

Recap

This 3-day journey from Puno to the Uyuni Salt Flat offers a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Travelers will experience the vibrant city of La Paz, the stunning Salar de Uyuni, and the picturesque towns of Pomata and Juli. With a blend of breathtaking landscapes and immersive cultural experiences, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable adventure in the heart of South America.

You can check if your dates are available here: