Traveling from La Paz to Uyuni opens the door to one of Bolivia’s most iconic experiences—the majestic Salar de Uyuni.
The route stretches approximately 550 kilometers, and your transportation choice will influence how you experience this journey.
As you plan your adventure from the vibrant capital city to the iconic Salar de Uyuni, you may have questions about the best ways to make this journey.
In this guide, we’ll provide all the information you need to make the trip from La Paz to Uyuni smooth and efficient.
We’ll cover the various transportation methods, their pros and cons, and tips to help you make the most of your journey.
The journey from La Paz to Uyuni is popular for travelers exploring Bolivia. It connects the vibrant capital city to the world-famous salt flats.
Covering an approximate distance of 550 km, this trip offers landscapes and unique experiences.
La Paz, situated at an altitude of around 3,650 meters, is the highest capital city in the world. It’s a city rich in culture, known for its lively street markets, vibrant atmosphere, and dramatic views of the Andes Mountains.
Uyuni, on the other hand, is a small town in the southwest of Bolivia, sitting at an altitude of about 3,670 meters. It’s the gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, which stretches over 10,000 square kilometers.
The journey between these two destinations takes you through the Bolivian Altiplano, a high-altitude plateau characterized by its stark, otherworldly beauty.
You’ll pass by small villages, llama herds, and the occasional volcano, getting a glimpse into the traditional life of the Andean people.
You have several options for traveling from La Paz to Uyuni, each offering varying comfort levels, flexibility, and experience.
Let’s explore the top options below.
An overnight bus is the most common and budget-friendly way to travel from La Paz to Uyuni.
This option saves you on accommodation while experiencing Bolivia’s stunning highland landscapes.
At Bolivia Hop, we currently do not operate the route between La Paz and Uyuni. However, we recommend traveling with Todo Turismo.
A one-way ticket on Todo Turismo starts at around $39. VIP options, which include more space, lie-flat seats, and other enhanced comforts, are also available for an additional cost.
For travelers short on time, flying from La Paz to Uyuni is the fastest way to reach the salt flats.
This is ideal for travelers who prioritize time and comfort. Additionally, you’ll get spectacular aerial views of Bolivia’s high-altitude landscapes.
For a more scenic and laid-back journey, you can take a bus from La Paz to Oruro and a train ride from Oruro to Uyuni. Although slower, this option provides beautiful views of Bolivia’s countryside.
Perfect for travelers looking for a slower, scenic route. It’s a unique way to experience Bolivia’s landscape while avoiding a long bus journey.
The journey from La Paz to Uyuni takes travelers through Bolivia’s stunning Altiplano region, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural landscape.
Here are some of the main attractions and things you can do and experience along the way:
The route from La Paz to Uyuni cuts through Bolivia’s Altiplano, a high plateau with striking landscapes.
The journey showcases expansive plains, distant snow-capped mountains, and picturesque villages. This high-altitude region is known for its vast open spaces, often dotted with llama herds and small communities.
Located along the route, Sajama National Park is home to Bolivia’s highest peak, Nevado Sajama, which towers over 6,500 meters.
The park is a natural wonder, known for its towering volcanoes, hot springs, and colorful lagoons. You can also spot ancient “chullpas” (stone tombs) and wildlife such as flamingos and vicuñas.
The famous Train Cemetery is one of the area’s most unique attractions, located just outside the town of Uyuni.
Abandoned locomotives from Bolivia’s mining boom lie in a vast desert, rusting in the sun. It’s a popular spot for photography, and a visit here often marks the beginning of Uyuni salt flat tours.
Situated within the salt flats, this island is a highlight of any visit to Salar de Uyuni. Isla Incahuasi is covered in giant cacti and offers panoramic views of the salt flats, making it a popular stop on multi-day tours.
The contrast between the white salt and the green cacti creates a surreal landscape.
Though not directly on the La Paz to Uyuni route, Laguna Colorada is a must-see if you’re taking an extended tour from Uyuni. Known for its striking red waters, the lagoon is home to thousands of pink flamingos, making it a photographer’s dream.
The vibrant color comes from the algae and minerals present in the water.
Much of the salt harvesting takes place in Colchani, a small village near Uyuni. Visitors can explore the Salt Museum here, learn about salt mining, and pick up handmade salt souvenirs. It’s a perfect stop before heading into the vast expanse of the salt flats.
There are several ways to travel from La Paz to Uyuni, depending on your budget, time, and preferred experience. Here are the best options:
Traveling by bus is the most common way to get from La Paz to Uyuni.
Overnight buses are the norm, and the journey takes approximately 10-12 hours. Various bus companies offer this route, each with different levels of comfort and service.
Among the bus companies, Todo Turismo stands out for its comfortable buses. They offer semi-cama and cama services, which means you can enjoy reclining seats or even beds during your journey. Amenities like blankets, meals, and an onboard bathroom make the trip more pleasant. Prices for a tourist bus with Todo Turismo start around $39.
Other bus companies to consider include Trans Titicaca, which offers lie-flat buses with a hot meal and blankets, starting at around $26. Trans Omar provides lie-flat buses with varying comfort levels, with prices starting at $15. Panasur, Cruz del Norte, and Cisne Bus Uyuni also have lie-flat buses with similar amenities at various price points.
When choosing a bus, consider the services offered. Many companies provide lie-flat buses with reclining seats, entertainment systems, air conditioning, and restrooms. Some even include meals and blankets in the ticket price.
If you’re short on time or prefer a quicker journey, flying from La Paz to Uyuni is an option. Flights are less frequent than buses, but they significantly reduce travel time.
The flight duration from La Paz to Uyuni is approximately 1 hour. Domestic airlines like Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) operate daily flights between La Paz’s El Alto International Airport and Uyuni’s Joya Andina Airport.
While flying is more expensive than bus travel, it offers the advantage of saving time. A one-way flight can cost approximately $130, depending on the airline and when you book.
Keep in mind that flights can be subject to delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, especially during the rainy season. It’s always a good idea to have some flexibility in your itinerary.
If you choose to fly, you’ll have more time to explore La Paz before your departure. Take advantage of this opportunity to visit the city’s top attractions, such as the Witches’ Market, the cable cars, or the nearby Valley of the Moon.
Upon arrival in Uyuni, you can easily arrange transportation to your accommodation or join a tour of the salt flats. Many hotels and hostels offer shuttle services or can help you arrange a taxi.
Flying to Uyuni is a great option if you’re on a tight schedule or simply prefer the convenience of air travel. However, keep in mind that you’ll miss out on the scenic route and the opportunity to see the Bolivian Altiplano’s stunning landscapes.
Joining a tour is another popular way to travel from La Paz to Uyuni. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, accommodations, and guided visits to the region’s main attractions.
One advantage of joining a tour is the convenience it offers. You don’t have to worry about arranging transportation or accommodations, as these are typically included in the tour package. This can be especially helpful if you’re short on time or don’t want to deal with the logistics of planning your trip.
Tours often combine visits to other attractions along the way, such as Copacabana and Lake Titicaca. This allows you to make the most of your journey and see more of Bolivia’s highlights in a single trip.
Traveling with a knowledgeable guide can also enhance your experience. They can provide insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders, giving you a deeper understanding of what you’re seeing.
When choosing a tour, consider the itinerary and what’s included in the price. Some tours may include meals, while others may not. The level of accommodation can also vary, from basic hostels to more comfortable hotels.
It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare different tour operators before making a decision. Look for companies with good safety records and experienced guides.
Keep in mind that joining a tour may be more expensive than traveling independently. However, the convenience and added value of guided visits and pre-arranged accommodations can be worth the extra cost for many travelers.
If you’re interested in joining a tour from La Paz to Uyuni, start by researching different tour operators and their offerings. You can often book online or through a travel agency in La Paz.
Some tours may require a minimum number of participants, so be sure to check the details and book in advance to secure your spot. It’s also a good idea to have some flexibility in your itinerary in case of any changes or delays.
Joining a tour can be a great way to experience the journey from La Paz to Uyuni, especially if you value convenience and want to make the most of your time in Bolivia. With a knowledgeable guide and pre-arranged accommodations, you can sit back and enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique attractions of this unforgettable route.
Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth journey from La Paz to Uyuni:
Buses and flights from La Paz to Uyuni can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season (May to September).
Booking your tickets a few days or even weeks in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
The same applies if you’re joining a tour, as popular tours tend to get fully booked ahead of time.
The journey between La Paz and Uyuni passes through high-altitude regions, often exceeding 3,500 meters above sea level.
Before setting off, spend a day or two in La Paz to acclimatize, as it will help prevent altitude sickness. Drinking coca tea or taking altitude sickness medication is a good precaution.
In the Altiplano region, temperatures can fluctuate greatly between day and night. The buses may be heated, but Uyuni itself can be very cold, especially at night.
Pack warm layers, including a jacket, hat, and gloves, to stay comfortable throughout the journey and during your time in Uyuni.
The dry, high-altitude air can quickly lead to dehydration, so keep a water bottle handy.
However, limit how much water you drink just before boarding the bus to avoid frequent trips to the restroom, as many buses only offer limited bathroom access.
If you’re taking an overnight bus, you won’t need large suitcases or heavy bags. Only pack the essentials you’ll need during the journey.
A small backpack with a travel pillow, snacks, and a water bottle is ideal. Most buses allow larger luggage to be stored underneath.
While English-speaking guides may be available on tours, much of the staff on buses and at terminals will only speak Spanish.
Learning a few basic phrases, such as asking for directions, ordering food, or confirming bus schedules, will make your trip smoother.
For example, phrases like “Cuánto cuesta el boleto?” (How much is the ticket?) and “A qué hora llega el bus?” (What time does the bus arrive?) will be helpful.
Though some buses provide meals, it’s a good idea to bring snacks like energy bars, fruit, or crackers for the journey.
Additionally, bring cash, as small towns and Uyuni itself may have limited ATM access, and many places don’t accept credit cards.
Traveling from La Paz to Uyuni offers an incredible opportunity to experience Bolivia’s stunning landscapes, from the high-altitude Altiplano to the surreal salt flats of Salar de Uyuni.
Planning, packing the essentials, and considering your comfort and time will prepare you for a smooth and memorable trip.
Once in Uyuni, the beauty of the salt flats and nearby attractions will undoubtedly be the highlight of your Bolivian adventure.
For a more immersive experience with local insights and flexibility, consider Bolivia Hop, the top-rated hop-on, hop-off service.
Bolivia Hop ensures a safe, comfortable, and enriching journey, allowing you to explore Bolivia’s hidden gems and connect with the culture.
The distance between La Paz and Uyuni is approximately 550 kilometers (around 342 miles), making it a lengthy but scenic journey through Bolivia’s high-altitude Altiplano.
The bus journey from La Paz to Uyuni typically takes between 9 and 12 hours, depending on road conditions and the bus company. Overnight buses are popular, allowing travelers to sleep during the trip and arrive in Uyuni early in the morning.
Yes, there are direct flights from La Paz to Uyuni. The flight takes about 1 hour, and airlines such as Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) and Amaszonas operate regular services. Depending on availability and booking time, a one-way ticket costs around $125.
The best time to visit Salar de Uyuni depends on what you want to experience. From May to October (the dry season), the salt flats are accessible, with clear skies and cooler temperatures. For the famous mirror effect, visit during the wet season, from January to April, when rainfall transforms the flats into a reflective surface.
Yes, booking tours in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist season (May to October) or if you want to ensure a spot for specific dates. This is particularly important for multi-day tours, including visits to places like Laguna Colorada and the Eduardo Avaroa National Park.
Essential items include warm layers, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the temperature can vary greatly and the sun is intense. Waterproof boots are recommended when visiting during the rainy season, and a travel pillow and snacks can be useful for the long bus ride.
Uyuni has limited ATMs, and they can sometimes run out of cash, so it’s best to bring enough Bolivian currency with you. Major hotels and some tour operators accept credit cards, but smaller vendors usually prefer cash.
To prevent altitude sickness, spend a day or two acclimatizing in La Paz before heading to Uyuni. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and consider taking altitude sickness medication. Coca tea is also a popular local remedy for easing symptoms of altitude sickness.
