Peru Destinations
Lima
Arequipa
Puno
Manu
Uyuni Salt Flats Express Tour 2 Days
Trip Styles
TOUR
DIFFICULTY
EASY
Duration
2 DAYS
Max People
8 PAXS
Tour Details
The Uyuni Salt Flats Express Tour – 2 Days / 1 Night is the ideal option for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Bolivian altiplano. In just two days, this itinerary combines the surreal beauty of the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt desert, with the cultural richness of the Andean communities around the majestic Tunupa Volcano. From the legendary Train Cemetery and the cactus-covered Incahuasi Island to a picnic lunch in the middle of the salt flat and a colorful sunset on the horizon, day one is filled with unforgettable moments. On the second day, the adventure continues with a visit to the village of Coqueza and an ascent to the slopes of the Tunupa Volcano, where you’ll explore the Alcaya Caves and see pre-Inca mummies that reveal the region’s deep history. This express tour offers the perfect balance of natural wonder, photography opportunities, and cultural discovery.
Highlights
- Discover the vast Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world.
- Visit the Train Cemetery, a unique open-air museum of locomotives.
- Explore the first Salt Hotel and learn about local salt production.
- Hike Incahuasi Island, with giant cacti over 15 meters tall and panoramic views.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the salt flat.
- Capture the famous perspective photos and admire a magical sunset over the Salar.
- Visit the community of Coqueza at the base of Tunupa Volcano.
- Explore the Alcaya Caves, home to pre-Inca mummified remains.
- Lunch at the foot of the Tunupa Volcano, surrounded by highland landscapes.
Photos
Itinerary
Day 1Salar de Uyuni: Train Cemetery, Incahuasi Island & Sunset over the Salt Flat
The tour begins at 10:30 am with a visit to the legendary Train Cemetery, an open-air museum of rusty locomotives that recalls the region’s mining past. We continue to a local handicraft market and a small salt-processing workshop, where you’ll learn how salt is extracted and crafted by local families.
Next, explore the first Salt Hotel, now a museum, before heading deep into the world’s largest salt desert. The highlight of the morning is Incahuasi Island, famous for its giant cacti that reach heights of over 15 meters. From the island’s viewpoint, enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the vast salt flat.
At midday, a delicious picnic lunch in the middle of the salt flat awaits you — a truly unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to create the famous perspective photos with your guide. As the sun sets, the horizon transforms into a magical display of colors, making for one of the most iconic views in South America. Overnight stay in a Salt Hotel, a unique accommodation built entirely from blocks of salt.
Day 2Coqueza, Tunupa Volcano & Alcaya Mummies
After breakfast, we set off by jeep back onto the salt flat, heading towards the community of Coqueza, located at the foot of the imposing Tunupa Volcano. From here, begin an ascent along the volcano’s slopes to visit the Alcaya Caves, home to pre-Inca mummified remains that provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient history.
At midday, enjoy lunch with stunning views at the base of the Tunupa Volcano, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Bolivian highlands. In the afternoon, we begin the return trip to Uyuni, where the tour concludes.
Included / Not Included
Price Includes
4×4 Jeep transportation during the tour
Experienced local guide
Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner
Accommodation: 1 night in a Salt Hotel
Price Excludes
Entrance fees to Incahuasi Island and Tunupa Volcano / Alcaya Caves
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Tips for guide and driver
Drinks and snacks not mentioned in the itinerary
What To Bring
Backpack & Daypack: A large backpack (30-40 liters) and a smaller daypack for daily essentials.
Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures (around -10°C).
Hiking Boots: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for rough terrain.
Trekking Poles: Trekking poles to help with stability, especially on steep sections.
Clothes for Variable Temperatures: Layered clothing for both cold nights and warmer days.
T-shirts and Trekking Pants: Lightweight, moisture-wicking t-shirts and trekking pants that zip off to shorts for easy adaptation.
Flashlight or Head Torch: A flashlight or headlamp for navigating at night.
Camera & Extra Batteries: Capture the stunning views with your camera, and bring extra batteries.
Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Sun protection for high altitudes and sunny days.
Personal Medical Kit: Bring your first-aid kit, including band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptics.
Rain Gear: A poncho or rain jacket for potential rain showers.
Toiletries: Toilet paper, wet wipes, small towel, and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Water Bottle (2 Liters): A reusable water bottle (water purifying tablets optional).
Copy of Your Passport: Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of emergencies.
Extra Money: Bring enough cash (in soles or dollars) for drinks, tips, and souvenirs.
Emergency Money: Have at least 200 extra soles for emergencies.
Bathing Clothes (Optional): Bring swimwear for visiting hot springs (if desired).