Visit Salar de Uyuni
In the sud Lipez region of Bolivia, near the border with Chile, stretches a massive salt flat. Close to the city of Uyuni, which gives it its name, it is far from just another high altitude salt flat, it is the largest one on Earth.
History
This salt desert formed about 14,000 years ago when Lake Tauca vanished. The evaporation of that lake also created the Salar de Coipasa further north.
Salar de Uyuni
Spanning 10,582 km², which is slightly larger than the state of Delaware, Salar de Uyuni is undeniably the largest salt flat in the world. The impressive statistics do not stop there. This salt flat sits at an elevation of 3,658 meters, making it feel far loftier than driving up to Colorado ski country.
Across this staggering expanse, the salt crust thickness ranges between 2 meters and 120 meters, representing an estimated reserve of 63 billion tons. For now, local salt mining extracts only 25,000 tons per year, leaving plenty in reserve.
Another unique feature right in the middle is the pseudo-île d'Incahuasi, a coral formation blanketed in cacti, some of which have passed the millennium mark.
Adding to its immense value, out of an estimated 11 million tons of recoverable lithium reserves worldwide, Salar de Uyuni holds 5.5 million tons entirely on its own. As a key component in electric vehicle batteries, this area is industrializing rapidly.
The stunning yet harsh environment leaves little room for abundant wildlife. Animal life is limited to a few flamingos, vicuñas, and South American gray foxes.
An unforgettable experience for travelers who love wide open spaces and otherworldly landscapes.
The Salar de Uyuni is a natural wonder. It is a massive salt flat, something you rarely see anywhere else in the world. You can take beautiful photos by playing with optical illusions. When it has rained, the reflections are incredible.
You will also go on a short hike to a viewpoint and visit a small island with cacti. Amazing, we even spotted an ostrich! It is also possible to sleep in a salt hotel or at least visit one. Two days are essential.