AREQUIPA TO UYUNI (OR SAN PEDRO) VIA LAKE TITICACA, LA PAZ & SAJAMA – 8-DAY OVERLAND TOUR

Day 1 – Arequipa → Lake Titicaca → Puno

Morning pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa and departure across the southern Andes toward Lake Titicaca. The drive passes high plains, volcanoes, and traditional villages. If time allows, we’ll stop at Sillustani tomb, a historic icon of the Aymara culture in the Titicaca region. Arrive in the city of Puno in the afternoon, located on the shores of the world’s highest navigable lake.

Accommodation options:

Day 2 – Lake Titicaca → Uros Islands → Bolivia → La Paz

In the morning, visit the Uros Floating Islands, learning about their ancestral culture and unique way of life. After lunch, continue your drive south along Lake Titicaca, cross the Peru–Bolivia border, and travel across the Altiplano, arriving in La Paz by evening.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Simple hotel in La Paz (2*) (See pictures)
→ Plus: Premium hotel in La Paz (4*) (See pictures)

Day 3 – Full Day La Paz Exploration

A full day dedicated to discovering La Paz, officially recognized as a New Wonder City. Visit key viewpoints and neighborhoods, explore local markets and cultural landmarks, and ride the iconic Mi Teleférico cable car, offering sweeping views over the city and surrounding mountains.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Simple hotel in La Paz (2*) (See pictures)
→ Plus: Premium hotel in La Paz (4*) (See pictures)

Day 4 – La Paz → Sajama National Park

Travel west across the Bolivian Altiplano toward Sajama National Park, Bolivia’s “best-kept secret”. Begin exploring volcanic landscapes, high-altitude wetlands, and Aymara villages beneath snowcapped peaks. Depending on conditions and time, the day may include natural hot springs, a geothermal geyser field, and wildlife sightings.

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

Day 5 – Sajama → Uyuni Region

A long but scenic travel day across the Bolivian Altiplano as you journey south from Sajama toward the Uyuni region. View deserts, lagoons, wildlife and beautiful Andean landscapes all day long.

• Dry season (typically May–November): Arrival to the northern edge of the Uyuni Salt Flats
• Rainy season (December–April): Arrival to the southeastern edge of the salt flats

During the dry season, a stop at the remote Coipasa Salt Flats may be possible, depending on weather and road conditions.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Simple lodge/guest house with private room/bathroom (See pictures)
→ Plus: Tayka de Sal (dry season) or Palacio de Sal/Luna Salada/Cristal Samaña (rainy season / subject to availability) (See pictures)

Day 6 – Full Day Uyuni Salt Flats Exploration

Explore the immense Uyuni Salt Flats, including Incahuasi Island in the dry season. Enjoy ample time for creative and classic photography, sunset views, and—during the rainy season—the spectacular mirror effect.

Sunset on the salt flats is a highlight of the day in either season.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Good hotel with private room/bathroom & WiFi (See pictures)
→ Plus: Palacio de Sal/Luna Salada/Cristal Samaña (subject to availability) (See pictures)

Day 7 – Uyuni → Andean Lagoons → Eduardo Avaroa Reserve

Travel south through dramatic and otherworldly volcanic deserts, traversing a chain of vividly colored Andean lagoons set among volcanoes, vast plains, and surreal rock formations. This is one of the most visually striking sections of the journey, offering constantly changing landscapes as you enter the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve. Wildlife sightings may include vicuñas, flamingos, Andean foxes, and other high-altitude species.

Accommodation options:

→ Standard: Basic lodge/guest house with private room & bathroom (See pictures)
→ Plus: Tayka del Desierto or similar (See pictures)

Day 8 – Eduardo Avaroa Reserve → Uyuni (or San Pedro de Atacama)

A full day exploring the highlights of the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, including iconic lagoons such as Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde*, dramatic desert landscapes, and another opportunity to enjoy natural hot springs. At Laguna Verde, travelers choosing the optional Chile extension will continue directly to San Pedro de Atacama (extra cost), without returning to Uyuni. Those not choosing this option will return to Uyuni, where the tour ends.

*If returning to Uyuni and choosing our PLUS package, Laguna Verde may have to be skipped due to distance and timing

Accommodation options: None. Tour ends today.

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.

Is the transfer to San Pedro de Atacama included?

No. The transfer to San Pedro de Atacama is optional and not included in the standard price. An additional cost applies if this option is chosen.

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.

Are there border crossings on this tour?

Yes. This itinerary involves at least one international border crossing, which is generally straightforward with a valid passport. Assistance is provided if needed.

Can the itinerary operate in reverse?

Yes. The route can also operate Uyuni or San Pedro → Arequipa, following the same highlights in reverse.

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 at the highest point
• Prior acclimatization is strongly recommended
• This tour includes international border crossings, which are usually simple; assistance is provided if necessary
• Weather and road conditions may affect the order of visits
• Route direction: this itinerary can be run southbound (Arequipa → Uyuni/San Pedro) or northbound (Uyuni/San Pedro → Arequipa)

Accommodation options:

• Standard Package: simple but private lodges or hotels
• 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)