Uyuni Salt Flats - Bolivia's Mirror of the Sky

About Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni, located in southwest Bolivia, is the world's largest salt flat at 10,582 square kilometers (4,086 sq mi). This breathtaking natural wonder was formed by prehistoric lakes that evaporated, leaving behind a thick crust of salt and creating a surreal, flat white landscape. During the rainy season (December to April), a thin layer of water transforms the flats into a giant mirror that perfectly reflects the sky, creating dreamlike optical illusions and unforgettable photo opportunities.

History of Salar de Uyuni

The Uyuni salt flat was formed when several prehistoric lakes dried up approximately 30,000-42,000 years ago, leaving behind two modern lakes (Poopó and Uru Uru) and two major salt deserts (Salar de Coipasa and Salar de Uyuni). The salt crust ranges from a few centimeters to several meters thick, with an estimated 10 billion tons of salt. Beneath the surface lies the world's largest lithium reserve, containing 50-70% of the planet's lithium resources. The area has been inhabited for millennia by indigenous groups, and today attracts visitors from around the world to witness its otherworldly beauty.

Uyuni at a Glance

Uyuni in Pictures

Mirror Effect in Rainy Season

Hexagonal Salt Patterns

Perspective Photography

Train Cemetery

Inca Huasi Island

Sunset Over the Salt Flats

3-Day Uyuni Itinerary

Experience the best of Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding attractions with this itinerary.

Explore Uyuni on Maps

Experience Uyuni Through Video

Traveler Experiences

"Walking on the salt flats during rainy season was like stepping into heaven - the sky and ground merged perfectly. The most surreal landscape I've ever seen!"

Emma L.

Nature photographer

"The perspective photos we took look like optical illusions! Our guide knew all the best spots and tricks to create mind-bending images on the endless white salt."

David K.

Adventure seeker

"Staying in a hotel made entirely of salt blocks was unforgettable. Waking up to sunrise over the vast white expanse was worth the high altitude!"

Sophia M.

Luxury traveler