This three-day overland journey connects Uyuni with San Pedro de Atacama, covering Bolivia’s most iconic landscapes in a compact yet immersive itinerary. Designed for travelers continuing their journey into Chile, the route combines the essential highlights of the Uyuni Salt Flats with the dramatic scenery of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve.
From the endless white expanse of Salar de Uyuni to high-altitude deserts, colorful lagoons, geysers, and hot springs, this itinerary delivers all the highlights of Bolivia’s southwest before crossing the border into the Atacama Desert. It is an ideal option for those short on time who still want a complete and memorable Uyuni experience.






DAY 1 – UYUNI – SALAR DE UYUNI
Depart from the town of Uyuni and enter the immense Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, covering nearly 10,000 km². Spend the day exploring this extraordinary landscape, visiting Playa Blanca, a former salt lodge, and venturing deep into the flats.
A major highlight is Isla Incahuasi, a cactus-covered rocky outcrop offering sweeping views across the endless white horizon and the opportunity for a short hike. Throughout the day, enjoy time for creative photography, taking advantage of the unique perspective and optical illusions created by the salt flats. Weather permitting, the day concludes with a memorable sunset on the Salar.
→ Rainy Season Variation (January – April)
During the rainy season, Isla Incahuasi and most of the interior of the Salar are inaccessible, and travel is limited to the outer edges. However, conditions are ideal for witnessing the famous mirror effect, when the flooded surface reflects the sky, creating one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation options:
→ Plus: Luxurious salt hotel — Hotel Palacio de Sal, Hotel Luna Salada, or Cristal Samaña (subject to availability) (See pictures) → 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)
DAY 2 – SALAR DE UYUNI – EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE
Leaving the salt flats behind, travel south through remote Altiplano landscapes toward the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. The scenery changes dramatically as volcanic deserts, high-altitude lagoons, and wildlife-rich plains dominate the route.
Stops today include several Andean lagoons inhabited by flamingos, the windswept Siloli Desert, and the iconic Arbol de Piedra*. The day’s highlight is Laguna Colorada*, famous for its deep red waters and large populations of pink flamingos. Overnight in a remote lodge within the reserve.
*If the Plus option is selected, Arbol de Piedra and Laguna Colorada will be visited on the following day.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation options:
→ Standard: Basic remote lodge with private room and bathroom (See pictures)
→ Plus: 3* desert hotel with private room and bathroom (See pictures)
DAY 3 – EDUARDO AVAROA RESERVE – SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA
On the final day, continue exploring the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. Visit the steaming Sol de Mañana geyser field (4,900 m), followed by a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. Later, admire Laguna Verde, set at the base of the perfectly conical Volcán Licancabur, one of the most striking sights of the entire journey.
From here, cross the Bolivia–Chile border and descend into the Atacama Desert, arriving in San Pedro de Atacama, where the tour concludes upon arrival at your accommodation.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation options: Not included (tour ends in San Pedro de Atacama)
Who is this tour designed for?
This itinerary is ideal for travelers starting in Uyuni who want to experience the Uyuni Salt Flats and Bolivia’s southwest before continuing their journey into Chile.
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 the applicable 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 route can be run San Pedro de Atacama → Uyuni with the same 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 (third day).
- 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.
- This tour operates in a remote region with limited infrastructure; WiFi, heating, and continuous electricity should not be expected.
- During the rainy season, access to parts of the Salar may be restricted.
- Vegetarian meals are available, though options are limited due to location.
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)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Private 4WD vehicle
- Experienced local driver
- Bilingual guide (unless driver-only option is selected)
- Accommodation as specified (Standard, Plus, or Plus with RV Camper)
- Meals and bottled water as indicated in the itinerary
- Rubber boots during the rainy season (when required)
- Transportation from the Bolivian border to your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama
| Summary | |
| CODE: | UYUSP-03 |
| START/END: | Uyuni ↔ San Pedro (one-way) |
| PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY LEVEL: | Moderate (long driving days, high altitude) |
| DURATION: | 3 days / 2 nights |
| AVAILABILITY: | Year-round (weather dependent, itinerary varies) |
| GROUP SIZE: | Small groups (typically up to 2–4 travelers per vehicle) |
| ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: | Simple lodges or guest houses (Standard) best hotels available (3-4*, Plus) or RV Camper Experience (Plus with RV) |