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Getting To Salar de Uyuni

Flights, overland routes, getting around locally, and visa requirements for 2026.

Getting To Uyuni

The easiest approach is to fly to La Paz (Bolivia's main hub) from international connections, then take a domestic flight to Uyuni (UYU) with Boliviana de Aviación (BOA) — 1 hour. Alternatively, Amaszonas operates the La Paz–Uyuni route. Booking ahead is essential as flights sell out. As of December 2025, US citizens no longer need a visa for Bolivia.

  • La Paz (LPB) → Uyuni (UYU): ~1h by air (BOA or Amaszonas)
  • International → La Paz: Lima 2h, São Paulo 5h, Madrid 12h
  • Overnight bus La Paz → Uyuni: 10–12h (budget option, cold)
💡 Tip: Book flights La Paz–Uyuni 4–6 weeks ahead during July–August peak season and the November–March mirror season.

Salt Flat Tours

The salt flat and Eduardo Avaroa Reserve are inaccessible independently without a 4WD vehicle. All visitors join organised tours (usually 1 or 3 days) operated by Uyuni-based agencies. Tours include driver/guide, transport, accommodation, and most meals. The difference between agencies varies — check reviews carefully.

  • 1-day tour (salt flat only): ~$25–40 per person
  • 3-day tour (salt flat + reserve): ~$80–150 per person
  • Tours depart at 10:30am (full day) or dawn for sunrise sessions
💡 Tip: Book your tour on arrival in Uyuni rather than from La Paz or abroad — better pricing and you can assess the vehicle and guide quality in person.

Bolivia Entry Requirements

Bolivia removed visa requirements for US citizens in December 2025 — a significant change that makes the country much more accessible. EU, UK, Australian, and Canadian citizens have been visa-free for some years.

  • USA: visa-free since December 2025 (major policy change)
  • EU, UK, Australia, Canada: visa-free up to 90 days
  • Passport valid for 6+ months from entry date required
⚠️ Note: Bolivia's altitude is significant — Uyuni sits at 3,660m and the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve reaches 5,000m. Acclimatise in La Paz (3,625m) or Sucre (2,750m) for at least 2 days before visiting the reserve.