Dare to explore the majestic Cordillera Real and the endless Salar de Uyuni, two of Bolivia’s most breathtaking landscapes.
UYUNI SALT FLAT AND CORDILLERA REAL
This trip is designed to explore two of Bolivia’s most impressive and iconic landscapes: the dazzling Uyuni Salt Flat, the largest salt desert in the world, and the majestic Cordillera Real, where we will conquer the summits of two imposing snow-capped peaks.
Each participant will have the flexibility to enjoy both destinations or focus on one, tailoring the experience to their preferences and level of challenge. This is a unique adventure that combines extreme nature, dreamlike landscapes, and the thrill of reaching new heights!
On the first day, we will explore the wonders of the Uyuni Salt Flat and its surroundings, visiting iconic sites such as the Train Cemetery, Incahuasi Island, and the famous Dakar Monument, ending with an unforgettable sunset experience.
Highlights:
Train Cemetery
Colchani Village
Entrance to Uyuni Salt Flat: Ojos del Salar, Dakar Monument, Flags of Different Countries, Hotel/Museum of Salt Playa Blanca
Incahuasi Island: Giant Cacti and Panoramic View
Sunset at the Edge of the Salt Flat
On the second day, we will visit the high-altitude landscapes of the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, exploring lagoons filled with flamingos, volcanoes, and the famous Stone Tree, on a route connecting the natural wonders of Sud Lípez and Laguna Colorada.
Highlights:
San Juan Village
Ollagüe Volcano Viewpoint
Altiplano Lagoons:
Laguna Cañapa
Laguna Hedionda (lunch)
Laguna Chiarkota (flamingo observation)
Sud Lípez and National Park:
Stone Tree
Laguna Colorada
On the third day, we will embark on a morning journey to the fascinating Sol de Mañana Geysers and the Polques Hot Springs, ending with breathtaking views of colorful lagoons and desert landscapes.
Highlights:
Sol de Mañana Geysers (highest point: 4,850 m.a.s.l.)
Polques Hot Springs (option to bathe in natural 37°C waters)
Salvador Dalí Desert
Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca
Return through lagoons and wetlands with llamas
The last day will take us through unique landscapes such as the Valley of Rocks and lesser-known lagoons, passing through local villages before returning to Uyuni in the afternoon.
Highlights:
Villa Mar Village
Wetlands with llamas
Lost City of Italy
Laguna Vinto
Laguna Catal
Valley of Rocks
San Cristóbal Village
5:30 p.m.: Arrival in Uyuni
Flight from Uyuni to La Paz.
This day, we will have time to visit some tourist attractions in La Paz, such as taking a cable car ride to El Alto, offering panoramic views of the city and the Cordillera Real. This marks the end of the trip for those not continuing to the Cordillera Real.
We will travel to Condoriri Valley (approximately 3 hours by vehicle) and continue with a 2-hour hike to the base camp, located at 4,700 meters above sea level. We will sleep on mats inside a small shelter and enjoy traditional Bolivian meals prepared by our cook. Luggage will be transported by donkeys to the base camp.
We will ascend Pico Tarija, reaching an altitude of 5,350 meters. This will be a simple glacier walk to the summit, where we will enjoy an impressive view of the Andes in Bolivia’s Cordillera Real. After the ascent, we will return to the base camp to rest.
We will climb Pico Austria, a 5,320-meter mountain. This hike will allow us to explore the Andean landscape and enjoy spectacular views. At the end of the day, we will return to the base camp to rest and spend the night.
We will return to the starting point, with time to visit final points of interest in the area before heading back to La Paz.
This day, we will take the flight back home.
OPTIONAL: Those who wish to take on the challenge of climbing a peak over 6,000 meters can do so at the end of the trip, adding one or two extra days to the itinerary. The additional cost for this activity is $350 USD.
+ Each participant will have the flexibility to choose between enjoying both destinations (Uyuni and Cordillera Real) or focusing on one of them, tailoring the experience to their preferences and level of challenge.
+ No prior mountaineering experience is required to ascend Austria and Tarija peaks.
+ Those who wish to take on the challenge of climbing a peak over 6,000 meters can do so at the end of the trip, adding one or two extra days to the itinerary. The additional cost for this activity is $350 USD.
+ Backpack (30–50 L)
+ Sunglasses with UV protection
+ Waterproof poncho (not needed if your jacket is waterproof)
+ Cold-weather clothing: thermal base layers, fleece or down jacket, waterproof shell, comfortable hiking pants, thick socks, gloves, warm hat, neck gaiter
+ Hiking boots, lightweight shoes
+ Water bottle or thermos
+ Small towel
+ Sunscreen & lip balm
+ Small personal first aid kit
+ Basic hygiene kit (toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrush)
+ For mountaineering: crampons, ice axe, harness, gaiters, helmet, headlamp, high-altitude sleeping bag (available for rent in La Paz)
INCLUDED
Uyuni Salt Flat
+ Professional guide
+ Meals (breakfast + lunch or packed lunch + dinner) throughout the trip (except in cities: Days 0 and 5)
+ Accommodation throughout the trip in shared rooms (private room option available at an extra cost)
+ Private 4×4 transportation in Uyuni Salt Flat
+ Round-trip La Paz – Uyuni – La Paz airfare
+ Entrance fees to Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve and all locations mentioned in the itinerary
Cordillera Real
+ Professional guide
+ Meals (breakfast + lunch or packed lunch + dinner) throughout the trip (except in cities: Days 0, 9, and 10)
+Accommodation in a mountain refuge in the Cordillera Real, sleeping on mats on the floor
+ Private transportation to Cordillera Real
+ Entrance fee to Condoriri Valley
+ Donkeys to carry luggage in the Cordillera Real (limit of 10 kg per person)
NOT INCLUDED
+ Mountaineering equipment for those who wish to climb snow-capped peaks (available for rent)
+ Sleeping bag
+ Medical insurance
+ Meals in La Paz and Uyuni
