Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia - The Luna Salada Experience
​(Tour Report May 2014/18)

Bordered on all sides by neighbouring countries, Bolivia is known as the highest, most isolated and most rugged nation in the Southern hemisphere and boasts among the driest, saltiest and swampiest natural landscapes in the world.   Although one of the poorest countries in South America it is one of the richest in terms of natural resources.  It is the home to the soaring peaks of the Cordillera Real, the steamy jungle of the Amazon Basin and wildlife-rich grasslands of the Southeast,  and the hallucinogenic salt flats of Uyuni.  It is to this last destination that we have now come to pay a visit.
Called the Salar de Uyuni by the locals, it is the biggest and highest salt lake in the world, located at 3,658m above sea level in the southwest part of Bolivia.  It also holds one of the world's largest reserves of Lithium.  The salt crust covers an extended area of some 4,085 square miles and here, many different attractions can be found, from the natural beauty of the place to the various typical towns with their traditions and customs.  Examples include the amazing geology of the Incahuassi Island, the lagunas Verde and Colorada, the "Tree of Stone", several natural thermal springs, and the bizarre "Cemetery of Trains" just outside Uyuni township itself.  A truly unique experience here for photographers, can be encountered during the wet season ("Altiplano winter" between Dec - Apr), when even light rains can transform the flat, white surface into a natural mirror.  This can create some amazing photo illusions!  And in the dry season, when the waters have evaporated, this leaves the salt pans with strange patterns that could have come from an alien world.
Where we are staying, the Hotel Luna Salada, is also one of the big attractions.  One of the most unique hotels in the world, it is built totally out of blocks of salt.  Located on the shore of the Uyuni Salt Lake some 10 minutes drive from Colchani, and 27kms out of Uyuni, it has spectacular views across the Salar.  With 23 exclusive style rooms, its Tunupa Restaurant with outstanding views, Bar, Conference Room, a Centre for Art and Handicrafts, and a Games Room, it offers accommodation in style for private guests and groups.  They also have special offers for Honeymoon and Marriage events.   Staffed by a family concern that is keen to satisfy every need of the discerning visitor, they take care of the smallest details so that every stay with them is pleasant and unforgettable.
​Rates​ (2019/20 Season):
​From US$150/ni/twin room with desert view (low season: Jun - Sep), rising to US$260/ni for a Family Room with Salar view (high season: Apr/May); US$230/ni/twin room (mid-season: Jan - Mar).  Note: Breakfast at extra charge.