SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA TO ARICA VIA UYUNI & SAJAMA NP – 6-DAY OVERLAND TOUR

Day 1 – San Pedro de Atacama → Hito Cajón → Eduardo Avaroa Reserve

Morning pickup in San Pedro de Atacama and drive toward the Bolivian border at Hito Cajón. After border formalities, enter Bolivia and begin exploring the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. Visits include Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca, volcanic terrain, geothermal areas, and a stop at natural hot springs set within vast high-altitude desert scenery.

If the Plus tier is selected, today may also include visits to Laguna Colorada and the iconic Árbol de Piedra*, depending on timing and conditions.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation options:

Day 2 – Andean Lagoons, Landscapes & Wildlife → Southern Uyuni Region

A full day exploring the Altiplano’s most striking scenery. Visit a series of colorful Andean lagoons surrounded by volcanoes and open plains, including Laguna Colorada (visited on Day 1 if the Plus tier is selected), with frequent opportunities to observe flamingos, vicuñas, and other high-altitude wildlife. The route continues through dramatic desert landscapes, remote valleys, and wide open plains as you travel north toward the Uyuni region.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Basic lodge with private room and bathroom (See pictures)
→ Plus: One of the iconic Salt Hotels — Palacio de Sal, Luna Salada, or Cristal Samaña (subject to availability, in this order of preference) (See pictures)

Day 3 – Full Day Uyuni Salt Flats Exploration

A full day dedicated to discovering the immense Uyuni Salt Flats. Drive across the salt surface and, during the dry season, visit Incahuasi Island* for panoramic views across the flats. There is plenty of time for fun photography — from creative perspective shots to classic wide-angle landscapes. In the rainy season, the salt flats become a giant natural mirror. Sunset on the salt flats is a highlight of the day, offering unforgettable light and reflections.

*Visited in the dry season only

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Good hotel with private room and bathroom, WiFi available (See pictures)
→ Plus: Tayka de Sal (dry season) or an additional night at one of the Salt Hotels from Day 2 (rainy season) (See pictures)

Day 4 – Uyuni → Northern Altiplano → Sajama Region

Depart Uyuni and travel north across the Bolivian Altiplano. During the dry season (typically May–November), it may be possible to traverse the remote Coipasa Salt Flats, a lesser-known salt flat that many travelers consider equally impressive — or even more striking — than Uyuni due to its vastness and isolation. Continue through wide open plains, traditional villages, and volcanic scenery as you approach the Sajama region, with sweeping views of snowcapped peaks.

→ Standard: Simple lodge/guest house (No Plus tier available in this region) (See pictures)

Day 5 – Sajama National Park Exploration

A full day traveling to and exploring Sajama National Park, home to Bolivia’s highest mountain, Nevado Sajama. Visit high-altitude wetlands, traditional Aymara villages, and relax at nearby hot springs surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes. In addition to the main highlights, the day includes visits to “secret” lagoons and lesser-known scenic spots that few travelers get to see, adding a unique and exclusive feel to the experience.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Simple lodge/guest house with private room/bathroom (See pictures)
→ Plus: Tomarapi Ecolodge (See pictures)

Day 6 – Sajama → Tambo Quemado → Arica

After breakfast, travel west toward the Chilean border. On the descent toward the Pacific coast, enjoy scenic stops at Laguna Chungará and viewpoints within Lauca National Park, one of northern Chile’s most beautiful protected areas. Continue onward to Arica, arriving by the end of the day.

Accommodation options: None. (tour ends in Arica)

Is this tour guided the entire way?

Yes. The tour can be operated with a bilingual guide (Spanish–English) or with a Spanish-speaking driver, depending on the travelers’ preference.

Is this a private tour?

This tour is operated primarily on a private basis. In some cases, different parties may be combined to form a small group, although this is not guaranteed.

How is pricing calculated?

Pricing varies according to party size, accommodation choice, and seasonal conditions. Please contact us for a tailored quote.

What type of vehicle is used?

The tour is operated in reliable vehicles suitable for high-altitude and off-road conditions.

How can I upgrade to the RV Camper option?

You may upgrade on one or more nights when it’s available (see itinerary, namely in the Salt Flats) in place of the other accommodation tiers. Simply request it at the time of booking.

Can the itinerary operate in reverse?

Yes. The tour can also operate Arica → San Pedro de Atacama, following the same route and highlights in reverse order.

PLEASE NOTE THAT PARK AND OTHER SITES' ADMISSION FEES - IF APPLICABLE - ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE (SEE INCLUSIONS)

• High-altitude travel reaching approximately 4,800–4,900 meters
• Prior acclimatization is strongly recommended
• Border crossings are generally straightforward with a valid passport and any required documents; the guide will assist if necessary
• Weather and road conditions may affect the order of visits
• Route direction: this itinerary can be run northbound (San Pedro → Arica) or southbound (Arica → San Pedro)

Accommodation options:

• Standard Package: simple but private lodges
• Plus Package: the best hotels available, including a stay in one of the region’s famous and unique Salt Hotels
• PLUS WITH RV CAMPER: Our signature RV Camper that allows you to comfortably sleep under the stars in the middle of the Salar (See pictures)