SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA TO LA PAZ VIA UYUNI – 5 DAYS

DAY 1 – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA – EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE

Depart early from San Pedro de Atacama, crossing the Chile–Bolivia border and ascending into the high Andes. Shortly after entering Bolivia, reach Laguna Verde, set beneath the perfectly shaped cone of Volcán Licancabur, one of the most striking landscapes of the region.

Continue deeper into the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, visiting the Sol de Mañana geyser field with its steaming fumaroles, followed by a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. Additional stops include the iconic Arbol de Piedra* and the deep red waters of Laguna Colorada*, home to hundreds of pink flamingos. The day ends at a remote lodge within the reserve.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation options:

DAY 2 – EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE – SALAR DE UYUNI

Continue north through the reserve, traveling across a chain of Andean lagoons filled with flamingos and other wildlife. The route features dramatic volcanic landscapes, wide open plains, and frequent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including vicuñas and Andean foxes. Gradually leave the high desert behind and make your way toward Salar de Uyuni, arriving at your selected accommodation near the salt flats by evening.

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 order and availability) (See pictures)

DAY 3 – UYUNI SALT FLATS – FULL DAY

Spend the entire day exploring the vast expanse of Salar de Uyuni, covering as much of its approximately 10,000 km² as conditions allow. Highlights include Isla Incahuasi, a cactus-covered rocky outcrop rising from the salt crust, offering panoramic views and a short hike.

→ Rainy Season Variation (January – April)

During the rainy season, Isla Incahuasi and most of the salt flats—including the northern section—are inaccessible, and driving is limited to the outer edges of the Salar. However, conditions are ideal for experiencing the famous mirror effect, when the sky reflects perfectly on the flooded surface of the salt flats.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Family-run lodge with private bathroom and hot water/shower (dry season) OR Good hotel with private room and bathroom, WiFi available (rainy season)
→ 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 – SALAR DE UYUNI – SALAR DE COIPASA – SAJAMA REGION

For those interested, an optional sunrise on the Salar de Uyuni can be arranged early this morning (additional fee applies). Leaving Uyuni behind, travel north across remote Altiplano landscapes toward Salar de Coipasa*, Bolivia’s second-largest and far less visited salt flat. Traverse wide open plains populated by llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, stopping at small villages and archaeological sites along the way.

→ Rainy Season Variation (January – April)

Salar de Coipasa can only be visited during the dry season. During the rainy season, this day becomes a long but scenic travel day entirely on a paved road, featuring dramatic Andean landscapes, rock gardens, traditional villages, and opportunities for short walks and light hiking. Arrival in the Sajama National Park region is by the end of the day.

→ Standard: Basic lodge with private bathroom and hot water/shower (See pictures)
→ Plus: Ecolodge with private room, bathroom, and hot water/shower (See pictures)

DAY 5 – SAJAMA NATIONAL PARK – LA PAZ

Spend the morning exploring Sajama National Park, Bolivia’s oldest protected area and home to the country’s highest peak. Visit the world’s highest Queñua forest, natural hot springs, an Andean lagoon, and geothermal features, with opportunities for short hikes and wildlife spotting.

In the afternoon, begin the scenic drive across the Altiplano into La Paz, where the tour concludes upon arrival.

Accommodation options:

→ None, tour ends upon arrival in La Paz.

Who is this trip designed for?

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience Bolivia’s southwest and Salar de Uyuni while starting in San Pedro de Atacama and finishing in La Paz.

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 on a private basis almost the entire time. On some departures, we may combine different parties to form a small group, although this is not always guaranteed and depends on availability and compatibility.

Can the tour depart on any date?

Yes. As a private tour, it can depart on any date you choose, subject to availability.

Is this the same experience as the classic Uyuni tour?

Yes. It includes all the classic highlights, while adding a broader northbound journey through Sajama National Park and additional remote regions.

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.

What level of comfort should I expect?

Conditions are simple in remote areas (except during accommodation in the PLUS tier). This tour is best suited to travelers comfortable with off-grid travel and basic amenities.

Can the itinerary operate in reverse?

Yes. This itinerary is the reverse of our 5-Day La Paz → Uyuni route and can also be customized.

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
• During the rainy season (December to March/April), some areas of the Uyuni Salt Flats may be inaccessible, including Incahuasi Island.
• Route direction: this itinerary can be run northbound (San Pedro → La Paz) or southbound (La Paz → San Pedro). See our La Paz to Uyuni 5-Day Tour and request transfer to San Pedro at the end.

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)