Land of Salt and Sky
Operated by Intrepid DMC Peru
$0 charged today. We place a pending $535 hold — released if the trip doesn’t lock in, captured as your deposit (25%) if it does.
- Group of 6–18 friends
- Lock-in defaults to 8 (you choose)
Powered by TrovaTrip · 4.7★ · 33k+ travelers
About this trip
Journey into Bolivia’s otherworldly southwest with an unforgettable visit to Uyuni and the vast Salar de Uyuni, where endless white horizons, mirror-like reflections, and surreal desert landscapes define the experience. Discover colorful lagoons, volcanic backdrops, and unique geological formations that make this region unlike anywhere else on Earth. Each day reveals a striking contrast of silence, scale, and natural beauty that feels almost unreal. The journey concludes back in La Paz, where you’ll cap off the adventure with the lively spectacle of Cholita wrestling, a bold and cultural celebration that brings modern Bolivian tradition vividly to life. Please note La Paz and the locations you will be visiting, sit at or above 12,000 feet above sea level. If you're arriving from sea level or are sensitive to altitude, it's a good idea to take precautions—consider arriving early to acclimate or bringing altitude sickness medication. Please also note that the dry season (Apr-Nov) is a great time to visit Bolivia and the Salt Flats, however, the mirror effect of the flooded salt flats against the sky is normally not possible due to lack of rain. During the wet season (Dec-Mar), the salt flats will flood allowing for the reflection effect for photography. During both season, though primarily wet season, all attractions are subject to change depending on road conditions and/or flooding.
What’s included
- Double occupancy in 3 & 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
- Local Guide throughout trip
- All city transfers
What’s not included
- Flights (except as noted)
- Airport transfers
- Visas and travel insurance
- Food and Alcohol (except as noted)
- Tips and Gratuity
Day by day7 days · 2 cities
- Day 1
Welcome to Bolivia
Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 6:00 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. Keep in mind that La Paz and the locations you will be visiting sit at or above 12,000 feet above sea level. If you're arriving from sea level or are sensitive to altitude, it's a good idea to take precautions—consider arriving early to acclimate or bringing altitude sickness medication. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into El Alto International Airport (LPB).
StayLa Casona Boutique Hotel★★★★or similar1 nightOvernight in La Paz.
twin occupancy
MealsDinner - Day 2
Introduction to the Salt Flats
This morning will be an early start as you’re headed to the airport to catch your domestic flight to Uyuni, the town at the entrance of the salt flats. A boxed breakfast will be provided. After your 1-hour flight to Uyuni, you’ll transfer to the hotel to drop off your luggage before heading out to the salt flats. Your first stop will be at the Train Cemetery, then you’ll continue to Colchani Village. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the salt flats, and time permitting, visit Plaza de las Banderas and the Dakar Monument. Conclude your day by watching the sun set against the salt flats, before heading back to Uyuni where you’ll have the evening to relax and enjoy dinner. Please note that all transfers during your time in Uyuni will be done in 4WD cars with 4 passengers per vehicle. You will travel as a group and each have your own driver to ensure safety. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, small change (coins), toilet paper (for bathrooms), and don’t forget your camera!
- Train CemeteryAfter dropping your luggage at the hotel, you’ll set out to explore the salt flats! You’ll start the day with a 15 minute transfer to visit the Train Cemetery. During this time, you’ll walk through this unique open-air museum featuring rusted 19th-century locomotives, learn about Uyuni’s railway history, and enjoy free time to explore the trains and take memorable photos at one of the most iconic sites in the region.09:30· 60 min
- Colchani VillageNext, you’ll transfer 30 minutes to visit the salt processing village - Colchani Village. With your guide, you’ll explore the small village known as the gateway to the Uyuni Salt Flats. You will learn about the traditional salt processing methods, see local handicrafts made from salt and llama wool, and have time to browse souvenirs while gaining insight into the daily life and culture of the local community.11:00· 60 min
- Plaza de las Banderas & Dakar MonumentAfter lunch, continue 20 minutes to Plaza de las Banderas and the Dakar Monument. The Plaza de las Banderas is a colorful celebration of Bolivia’s cultural diversity. The plaza is lined with vibrant flags representing regions and communities from across the country, creating a visually striking display beneath the wide Bolivian sky. It’s a popular stop for travelers looking to take photos and soak in the atmosphere. Dakar Monument stands as a striking cultural landmark celebrating both artistry and regional heritage. The monument’s detailed design reflects the creative skill of its makers while symbolizing the layered history of Bolivia, where indigenous traditions and colonial influences intersect. Set against the vast, open landscapes near the Uyuni Salt Flats, it’s a memorable stop that invites visitors to pause, learn, and capture photos of this unique fusion of culture and scenery. *Please note that depending on the day’s timing, this may be moved to the following day (Day 3) to ensure the group is not rushed.15:00· 60 min
- Uyuni Salt Flats Sunset ExperienceWatch as the sun slowly sinks over the vast white expanse of Bolivia’s salt flats, painting the sky in warm shades of gold, pink, and orange. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the landscape into a natural mirror, reflecting the sky so perfectly that the horizon seems to vanish. As daylight fades, the immense silence and boundless scale of the flats create a sense of calm and wonder that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a powerful, unforgettable moment that stays with you long after the sun slips below the horizon. Then transfer18:00· 60 min· Uyuni
- Transfer · El alto international airport → LPBTake a 30 minute private transfer to the La Paz airport where you will board your 1-hour flight to Uyuni. Upon arrival in Uyuni, you will transfer 15 minutes to the hotel to store your luggage. Please note that you will be allowed 1 carry-on (less than 15 lbs) and 1 checked bag (less than 50 lbs) with maximum dimensions of 21” x 13” x 10”. The maximum allows size per checked luggage is 62 linear inches, i.e., the sum of length, height, and width.private · 30 min
StayKachi de Uyuni★★★or similar3 nightsOvernight in Uyuni.
twin occupancy
MealsBreakfastLunch - Day 3
Incahuasi Island
Wake up to another beautiful day in the salt flats of Bolivia. After breakfast, you’re headed out to Incahuasi Island, a rocky island rising out of the salt bed. You’ll have amazing photo opportunities, so don’t forget to pack your camera! You’ll return to Uyuni in the late afternoon where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy dinner. Please note that all transfers during your time in Uyuni will be done in 4WD cars with 4 passengers per vehicle. You will travel as a group and each have your own driver to ensure safety. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, small change (coins), toilet paper (for bathrooms), and don’t forget your camera!
- Ojos del SalarKnown as the “eyes of the salt flat,” these natural openings are rare geological features where subterranean rivers rise to the surface beneath the vast Uyuni Salt Flat. The water that emerges is rich in minerals and has distinct acidic properties, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding salt crust. Locals believe these waters hold medicinal qualities, and their presence offers insight into the hidden water systems that exist below the seemingly endless white landscape.08:00· 45 min
- Incahuasi IslandIncahuasi Island rises dramatically from the endless white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats, like a rocky oasis in a sea of salt. Covered in towering giant cacti, some of which are hundreds of years old, the island offers a striking contrast to the flat, blindingly white surroundings. From the top, sweeping panoramic views stretch in every direction, emphasizing the vastness and scale of the salt flats below. Once a volcanic peak, Incahuasi is also rich in fossils and history, making it both a natural and geological highlight of the Uyuni region.12:00· 90 min
- Transfer to Incahuasi IslandTransfer in 4WD vehicles (4 passengers per vehicle) to Incahuasi Island in the salt flats. You’ll make a stop along the way at Ojos del Salar, before continuing your transfer. Stops at designated landmarks or rest areas will be made for bathrooms along the way. Bathrooms are very basic and often cost a small fee to use, so it is important to keep small change (coins) and your own toilet paper on your person when using the these facilities.120 min
- Return to UyuniAfter lunch, you’ll head back to Uyuni. Along the way you’ll make several stops at notable attractions and areas for some stunning photography opportunities. Stops at designated landmarks or rest areas will be made for bathrooms along the way. Bathrooms are very basic and often cost a small fee to use, so it is important to keep small change (coins) and your own toilet paper on your person when using the these facilities.120 min
MealsBreakfastLunch - Day 4
South Lipez Region
Today you’ll head southwest toward the Chilean border to visit some stunning lakes within the salt flats. After breakfast, you’ll head out on a long drive across the salt flats. You’ll visit three lakes, Cañapa Lake, Hedionda Lake, and Honda Lake, stopping at each for photos and wildlife viewing (if lucky!). You’ll enjoy lunch at one of the lakes before heading back to Uyuni, arriving in the evening. Please note that all transfers during your time in Uyuni will be done in 4WD cars with 4 passengers per vehicle. You will travel as a group and each have your own driver to ensure safety. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, small change (coins), toilet paper (for bathrooms), and don’t forget your camera!
- Cañapa LakeLaguna Cañapa is a true haven for nature lovers and photographers. Its pristine waters mirror the surrounding snow-capped mountains, creating breathtaking, postcard-perfect views. Stroll along the shoreline and soak in the peaceful atmosphere, while keeping your camera ready to capture the stunning scenery. For bird enthusiasts, the lake is equally captivating. Home to a variety of species, including flamingos, Andean avocets, and Andean gulls, it offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe these elegant birds in their natural environment.11:30· 60 min
- Hedionda LakeLaguna Hedionda is best known for its seasonal gatherings of pink and white flamingos, which make it a spectacular spot for wildlife observation. The lake is extremely saline, with salt concentrations ranging from 66–80%, and it averages less than a foot in depth. Its name, which translates to “Stinking Lake” in Spanish, comes from the strong sulfuric odor produced by the high mineral content of the water.14:00· 60 min
- Honda LakeNestled among snow-capped volcanoes, Laguna Honda, whose name means “Deep Lake”, is surprisingly shallow, with a depth of only about 10 cm. This shallowness gives the lake an exceptionally calm surface, turning it into a natural mirror that perfectly reflects the brilliant blue sky and drifting clouds. The scene becomes even more breathtaking when flocks of flamingos take flight, adding movement and color to this serene landscape.15:30· 60 min
- Transfer to South Lipez RegionToday you will transfer in 4WD vehicles (4 passengers per vehicle) to the lakes of the South Lipez Region. You will make stops for photography along the way. You’ll spend some time at each lake before transfering 30 minutes between each lake. Other stops at designated landmarks or rest areas will be made for bathrooms along the way. Bathrooms are very basic and often cost a small fee to use, so it is important to keep small change (coins) and your own toilet paper on your person when using the these facilities.210 min
- Return to UyuniTransfer back to Uyuni. Along the way you will make stops for some amazing photography opportunities. Stops at designated landmarks or rest areas will be made for bathrooms along the way. Bathrooms are very basic and often cost a small fee to use, so it is important to keep small change (coins) and your own toilet paper on your person when using the these facilities.210 min
MealsBreakfastLunch - Day 5
Return to La Paz
Wake up early this morning and say goodbye to the salt flats. You’ll be provided with a boxed breakfast as you board your early flight back to La Paz. Upon your arrival, you’ll transfer to the hotel to drop off your luggage, then you’ll have some free time for lunch. You will be trying local snacks as part of your walking tour so it’s recommended to have a light lunch. After lunch, partake in a walking tour of the city. Then, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes as La Paz is situated in a deep valley surrounded by mountains, meaning there are many hilly areas within the city. You'll also want to bring small change (coins) and toilet paper (for bathrooms), and don’t forget your camera!
- La Paz Walking Tour and Local SnacksIn the afternoon, get ready to experience the vibrant heart of the city on a private walking tour, discovering the city’s bustling local markets, colorful streets, and authentic flavors. Visit landmarks such as Calle Jaen, Plaza Murillo, the Main Square, and the Witches Market. During your walking tour, you’ll make two stops to try local snacks like salteña and quinoa burgers. The snacks you try may vary depending on availability. Later, enjoy a ride on La Paz’s iconic cable car, offering panoramic views of the city’s dramatic landscape. You will walk about 2-3 miles in flat and hilly areas.13:00· 180 min· La Paz
- Transfer · UYU → LPBTransfer 10 minutes from your hotel to the Uyuni airport. Then, board your 1-hour flight to La Paz. Upon arrival, transfer 30 minutes to your hotel to store your luggage. Please note that you will be allowed 1 carry-on (less than 15 lbs) and 1 checked bag (less than 50 lbs) with maximum dimensions of 21” x 13” x 10”. The maximum allows size per checked luggage is 62 linear inches, i.e., the sum of length, height, and width.private · 20 min
StayLa Casona Boutique Hotel★★★★or similar2 nightsOvernight in La Paz.
twin occupancy
MealsBreakfast - Day 6
Bolivian Women Wrestling!
Today you will have the morning and early afternoon free at your leisure. Take the opportunity to catch up on sleep, or explore more of La Paz on your own. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to a local wrestling venue to watch female wrestlers (Cholitas) take each other on in an exciting wrestling showdown! Return to the city in the evening and enjoy one final meal together.
- Cholitas WrestlingTake a 40 minute transfer to the venue where you will watch Cholitas (female wrestlers) wrestling match. Bolivian cholitas wrestling is a vibrant form of professional wrestling featuring Indigenous Aymara and Quechua women performing in traditional dress, including pollera skirts and bowler hats. Originating in El Alto near La Paz in the early 2000s, it blends athleticism, theatrical storytelling, and humor inspired by lucha libre. Beyond entertainment, it has become a powerful symbol of cultural pride and empowerment, celebrating the strength and identity of Indigenous women in Bolivia.15:30· 150 min
MealsBreakfastDinner - Day 7
Wave Goodbye to Your Newfound Friends!
All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of El Alto International Airport (LPB).
MealsBreakfast
Common questions
How does this work?
You start the trip and pick possible dates. Friends commit by putting a card on file — $0 charged today. Once 8 friends commit and ops confirms, the trip locks in and we capture a 25% deposit. If we don't hit 8 in time, every hold is released and nothing happens.
When am I actually charged?
Only if the trip locks in (8 friends commit) AND TrovaTrip ops confirms the booking. Until then your card is just authorized — no money moves. At lock-in we capture a 25% deposit; the remainder is due ~60 days before departure, same as any TrovaTrip trip.
What if we don’t get enough friends to commit?
If we don’t hit 8 commitments before the window closes, every hold is released automatically. $0 charged, the trip just doesn’t happen.
Can I cancel after I commit?
Yes — anytime before lock-in your hold is released, no questions asked. After lock-in (and once the deposit is captured), standard TrovaTrip cancellation policy applies based on how close to departure you are.
Does the price change as more friends join?
On trips with group discounts, yes — the more friends commit, the lower everyone's price. The final price is set at lock-in based on the size of the group at that moment. Everyone pays the same.
What if I want different dates than the group?
When you commit you pick which of the proposed dates work for you. If the group lands on a date you can't do, your hold is released and you're under no obligation.
Who's actually running the trip?
TrovaTrip handles all the logistics — flights, hotels, guides, on-the-ground operator (Intrepid DMC Peru for this one). We've run thousands of group trips across 80+ countries. Once your group locks in, our ops team takes over and you get a real human point of contact.
Do I need a TrovaTrip account?
To start a trip, yes — that's how we know who to coordinate with. To commit as a friend you can do it as a guest (just email + card), or sign up — whichever's easier.