Located in the southwest of Bolivia, Uyuni is a land of surreal beauty and boundless wonder. Known for its otherworldly landscapes, especially the vast Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, Uyuni captivates every traveler with its dreamlike scenery and natural charm. From shimmering mirror-like reflections after rain to colorful lagoons, ancient train cemeteries, and high-altitude deserts, Uyuni is a destination that feels like stepping onto another planet.
Here are the top 10 places to visit in Uyuni that will make your journey unforgettable.
1. Salar de Uyuni
The crown jewel of Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni, is the largest salt flat on Earth, stretching over 10,000 square kilometers. This dazzling white expanse was once part of a prehistoric lake that evaporated thousands of years ago, leaving behind an endless salt crust. During the dry season, it becomes a vast, white desert that reflects the bright Andean sun. But in the rainy season, it transforms into a giant natural mirror, creating surreal reflections that blend the earth and sky into one.
Visitors can take guided tours to explore the salt flats, visit salt hotels made entirely from salt blocks, and capture stunning photos that play with perspective. Sunrise and sunset here are nothing short of magical.
2. Incahuasi Island (Isla Incahuasi)
Right in the middle of the salt flats lies Incahuasi Island, a rocky outcrop covered with giant cacti and coral-like rock formations. The island, formed from ancient volcanic remains, offers panoramic views of the Salar in every direction. The cactus plants can grow up to 10 meters tall, and from the island’s summit, you’ll witness one of the most striking landscapes in all of South America.
It’s a popular stop on salt flat tours, and many travelers hike to the top to watch the sunrise or sunset. The contrast between the white salt flats and the earthy tones of the island makes this a photographer’s paradise.
3. Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes)
Just outside the town of Uyuni lies the hauntingly beautiful Train Cemetery, where rusted locomotives and decaying carriages stand silently under the desert sun. These trains date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Uyuni was a major railway hub connecting Bolivia to Chile.
After the mining industry declined, the trains were abandoned, leaving behind a relic of Bolivia’s industrial past. Today, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Uyuni — a mix of nostalgia and mystery. Travelers often enjoy climbing on the old engines and taking artistic photos amidst the desert backdrop.
4. Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon)
A few hours from Uyuni, deep within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, you’ll find Laguna Colorada, one of the most stunning natural wonders in Bolivia. This shallow salt lake is known for its striking red hue, caused by red sediments and pigmentation in certain algae that thrive in its mineral-rich waters.
The lagoon is also home to thousands of pink flamingos, which add to the vibrant scenery. With the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and wind-sculpted rocks, Laguna Colorada offers an unearthly view that makes it one of the highlights of any Uyuni tour.
5. Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon)
Located near the Chilean border, Laguna Verde is another breathtaking high-altitude lake in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. Its emerald-green color comes from minerals like arsenic and copper found in the water. The lake lies at the base of the majestic Licancabur Volcano, whose perfect cone shape is reflected in the shimmering water on calm days.
However, the lagoon’s color can change dramatically depending on the wind and sunlight, making it a fascinating sight for nature lovers and photographers alike. The combination of the volcanic scenery and the surreal color of the lagoon creates an unforgettable image of Bolivia’s wild beauty.
6. Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve
Covering more than 7,000 square kilometers of rugged terrain, the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve is one of Bolivia’s most extraordinary protected areas. It is home to a collection of geysers, lagoons, volcanoes, and unique wildlife. Visitors can encounter Andean foxes, vicuñas, and three different species of flamingos living in harmony amid the harsh environment.
The reserve is also known for its geothermal fields, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents paint a scene straight out of another world. It’s an adventurer’s dream and a must-visit for anyone traveling through Uyuni.
7. Sol de Mañana Geysers
If you’re fascinated by geothermal wonders, Sol de Mañana is a site you can’t miss. Located at an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters, this geyser field features boiling mud pools, fumaroles, and jets of steam shooting into the sky. The name “Sol de Mañana” means “Morning Sun,” and visiting at sunrise is particularly spectacular, as the cold air intensifies the steam columns, creating an otherworldly scene.
The strong smell of sulfur, combined with the dramatic geothermal activity, gives this area a raw, powerful energy that showcases the Earth’s natural forces at work.
8. Stone Tree (Árbol de Piedra)
One of Uyuni’s most iconic natural landmarks is the Stone Tree, or Árbol de Piedra. Located in the Siloli Desert within the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, this 7-meter-high rock formation has been sculpted over centuries by wind erosion into the shape of a lone tree.
Surrounded by a barren desert landscape, the Stone Tree stands as a striking example of nature’s artistry. The unique rock formations around this area make it a perfect stop for photography and exploration, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the desert come alive.
9. San Cristóbal Village
For a taste of local life and history, San Cristóbal Village is a fascinating stop. This small settlement was relocated from its original location due to mining development, and its old colonial church was carefully reconstructed stone by stone.
The village maintains a peaceful charm, with traditional Bolivian homes, friendly locals, and a strong mining culture. It’s also a great place to buy handmade crafts or enjoy a local meal before continuing on your Uyuni adventure.
10. Tunupa Volcano
Towering above the Salar de Uyuni, Tunupa Volcano is a sacred and visually stunning mountain that adds dramatic beauty to the region. Rising to over 5,000 meters, it offers panoramic views of the salt flats and the surrounding landscape.
Hiking up the volcano is a popular activity for adventurous travelers. On the way, you can visit local villages like Coquesa, where you’ll find mummies preserved in caves — a glimpse into ancient Andean culture. The climb rewards visitors with breathtaking views that make all the effort worthwhile.
Uyuni is more than a destination; it’s a journey through some of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. From the vast expanse of Salar de Uyuni to the flamingo-dotted lagoons and steaming geysers of the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, every corner of this region is filled with wonder and mystery.
Whether you come for photography, adventure, or simply to marvel at nature’s surreal creations, Uyuni promises an experience that feels almost dreamlike. It’s a place where reality blends with imagination, where the horizon never ends, and where silence speaks louder than words.
So, if you’re looking for a destination that offers both raw natural beauty and unforgettable adventure, Uyuni, Bolivia, should be at the top of your travel list.
