Nature can do things that sometimes Photoshop can’t – Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the perfect example. It is probably the world’s largest mirror, and the best part about this ‘mirror’ is that it is entirely natural.
Contents
Where is the flattest place on Earth?
Salar de Uyuni or Uyuni salt flat is the world’s largest salt flat. It extends to a massive 11,000 square kilometers, located in Bolivia, South America. It is a huge flat piece of land covered with layers and layers of salt, which manifests itself as polygonal patterns on the surface when there is no water. All this is a remnant of a prehistoric lake, which gradually dried up. It is located at a shocking 12,000 feet above the sea level.
What is the best time to visit the flattest place on earth?
This incredible mirror phenomenon is only visible after rains. So you should be lucky enough to experience it if you come between January and March, that is, the wet season in Bolivia.
How to get to Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia?
There are many possible paths, as this salt flat in Bolivia shares borders with both Chile and Argentina. The most commonly followed route is from Uyuni, Bolivia. You just need to book a Salar de Uyuni tour, which is mostly a one-day trip.
But the best location to start off is from Tupiza, Bolivia. It is a four day trip by a tour operator, Salar de Uyuni, being the final destination.
Important information about Salar de Uyuni tours
Salt flats are indeed the most popular of the Bolivia attractions. Instead of indulging in only the Uyuni salt flats, it is recommended to arrange the other incredible Bolivia attractions along with it. They include volcanoes, caves, geysers, hot springs, lakes, deserts etc. and need a minimum of three days to explore. Scheduled tours are always available to drive you through all these places.
Depending upon your budget, you may choose between a shared tour or a private tour. Private Uyuni salt flat tours are better and flexible as they come with a customizable itinerary and English speaking drivers. Also, you get what you pay for, so don’t indulge in any kind of cheap deals out there as it may lead to you getting a drunk driver and/or a damaged car.
At such challenging venues, these setbacks are not only inconvenient but also can endanger one’s life. So make sure you do your research before booking a particular Uyuni Salt Flat tour.
The mirror effect is totally unbelievable. You must as well visit the Incahuasi Island, which is located in the middle of the prehistoric lake. Make sure you carry all your essentials, as this trip is way more difficult than it seems. Illusions related to distance, altitude sickness, etc. are fairly common.
Where to stay near Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia?
Several hotels in Uyuni are completely made of salt- The wall, floor, staircase, furniture, including beds! Staying in these is a once in a lifetime experience. Below are a few recommendations:
- Hotel de Sal Cristal Samana
- Casa de Sal – Salt Hotel
- Hotel Boutique Atipax
- Hotel Palacio de Sal
