Cusco to Uyuni Salt Flats Tour: 3 Days / 2 Nights by Bus via Puno & La Paz

TOUR TYPE

Shared tour

DURATION

3 days/2 nights

DEPARTURES

Daily

GROUP SIZE

Up to 6 Pax per vehicle

TRANSPORT

4×4 Off-Road Vehicle, Bus

STARTING / ENDING TIME

20:00, 1D – 19:30, 3D
OVERVIEW

Travel from Cusco by direct bus to La Paz, passing through Puno along the way. Enjoy free time upon arrival to explore the vibrant city of La Paz, known for its unique culture, traditional markets, and stunning Andean landscapes. This journey offers a comfortable overnight bus ride, connecting two countries through the heart of the Andes.

 

Continue your adventure to Uyuni, where you will experience a full-day tour including sunset at the world’s largest salt flat. Discover breathtaking landscapes, endless white horizons, and mirror effects depending on the season. This unforgettable experience combines travel, culture, and natural wonders in a single journey through the Andean highlands.

● Travel from Cusco to Uyuni crossing Peru and Bolivia in one epic Andean journey
● Enjoy free time to explore the vibrant city of La Paz
● Experience a full tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest salt desert in the world
● Explore Incahuasi Island, a stunning oasis of giant cacti in the middle of the salt flats.
● Capture unique photos with the mirror effect and surreal landscapes (seasonal)

TOUR TYPE

Shared tour

GROUP SIZE

Up to 6 Pax per vehicle

DEPARTURES

Daily

TOUR DURATION

3 days/2 nights

STARTING / ENDING TIME

20:00, 1D - 19:30, 3D

TRANSPORT

4×4 Off-Road Vehicle, Bus

START CITY

Cusco City

END CITY

Uyuni City

DIFFICULT LEVEL

Moderate

PICK-UP

At your hotel

DROP-OFF

Airport, Terminal

ACCOMODATION

Not Included

MEALS

Parcially Included

GUIDE

Guided

LIVE TOUR GUIDE

ES, EN

ATRACTIONS FEE

Included

PAYMENT METHOD

VISA, American Express, Apple Pay

Cusco to Uyuni Salt Flats Tour: 3 Days & 2 Nights by Bus via Puno & La Paz

 

Experience an unforgettable journey across the Andes between Peru and Bolivia. Discover vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and the world’s largest salt flat in one incredible adventure.

 

Enjoy a seamless route designed for travelers seeking culture, nature, and unique scenery.

 

Day 1: Cusco to La Paz (Overnight Bus)
08:00 p.m. Hotel pick-up in Cusco and transfer to the bus terminal.
09:30 p.m. Check-in at Cusco Bus Terminal.
10:00 p.m. Departure by international bus to La Paz (via Puno).

 

Day 2: La Paz to Uyuni (Overnight Bus)
08:00 a.m. Border crossing and immigration procedures.
02:00 p.m. Arrival at La Paz Bus Terminal.
Free time in La Paz or optional city tour by Nomadex
08:30 p.m. Check-in at La Paz Bus Terminal.
10:00 p.m. Overnight bus to Uyuni (cama/fully reclining seats).

 

Day 3: Uyuni Salt Flats Full Day + Sunset
07:00 a.m. Arrival in Uyuni and transfer to a local restaurant for breakfast.
Free time until 10:30 a.m. (please coordinate details with the guide upon arrival).
10:30 a.m. Start of the tour – Train Cemetery.
11:30 a.m. Visit to Colchani village (salt processing).
12:15 p.m. Exploration of the Salt Flats’ “Eyes”.
12:45 p.m. Stop at the Dakar Monument.
01:15 p.m. Visit to the Salt Pyramids.
01:45 p.m. Picnic lunch in the Uyuni Salt Flats.
02:30 p.m. Visit to Incahuasi Island (giant cacti).
05:20 p.m. Mirror effect experience (seasonal).
06:00 p.m. Sunset at the Uyuni Salt Flats.
07:30 p.m. Arrival in Uyuni town.
End of the tour

 

Optional Add-on:
City tour in La Paz – USD 35
Bicycle Rental – USD 25
Return bus from Uyuni to La Paz – 55

Day 1: Cusco – La Paz (Overnight Journey)

Your adventure begins in Cusco with hotel pick-up around 08:00 p.m., followed by a transfer to the bus terminal. After check-in at approximately 09:30 p.m., you will board an international bus to start your journey to Bolivia.

 

At around 10:00 p.m., departure towards La Paz begins, traveling through the Peruvian highlands and passing by the city of Puno. Enjoy a आरामable overnight bus ride as you cross the Andes on your way to Bolivia.

 

  • Transfer: Hotel to Bus terminal
  • Bus Ticket: Cusco to La Paz

 

Day 2: La Paz – Uyuni (Overnight Journey)

In the morning, around 08:00 a.m., you will cross the border and complete immigration procedures. The journey continues until arrival in La Paz at approximately 02:00 p.m.

 

Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore one of the highest capitals in the world. You may visit the famous Witches’ Market, ride the cable car system, or walk through the historic city center. (Optional: city tour in La Paz for USD 40.)

 

In the evening, return to the terminal around 08:30 p.m. for check-in before boarding the overnight bus to Uyuni between 09:00 and 10:00 p.m. This journey is typically in a fully reclining (cama-style) bus for added comfort.

 

  • Bus Ticket: La Paz to Uyuni

 

Day 3: Uyuni Salt Flats (Full Day + Sunset)

The day begins with arrival in Uyuni around 07:00 a.m., where you will be greeted and transferred to a local restaurant for breakfast. You will have free time to rest or prepare before the tour begins.

 

At 10:30 a.m., start your Uyuni Salt Flats tour with a visit to the Train Cemetery, followed by the village of Colchani to learn about traditional salt processing. Continue exploring highlights such as the Salt Flats’ “Eyes,” the Dakar Monument, and the salt pyramids.

 

At midday, enjoy a picnic lunch in the middle of the salt flats. In the afternoon, visit Incahuasi Island, known for its giant cacti and panoramic views. Finally, experience a breathtaking sunset around 06:00 p.m., with the possibility of witnessing the famous mirror effect depending on the season.

 

The tour concludes with return to Uyuni town at approximately 07:30 p.m. (Optional: return bus from Uyuni to La Paz.)

 

  • Included Meals: Picnic lunch
  • Transport: 4×4 Off-Road Vehicle

 

Optional Add-on:
City tour in La Paz – USD 35
Bicycle Rental – USD 25
Return bus from Uyuni to La Paz – 55

 

Notes:
Estimated schedules: Departure and arrival times may vary due to weather, traffic, or transport company operations.

Documentation and border crossing: Passengers are responsible for carrying valid documents (passport or ID, depending on nationality) and completing immigration procedures.

Local currency: In both Peru and Bolivia, it is recommended to carry local currency for expenses such as terminal fees, restroom use, and small purchases. Peruvian soles are used in Peru, and Bolivianos (BOB) in Bolivia; currency exchange is available at the border.

Bus comfort: Buses are typically semi-cama or cama (reclining seats); however, comfort levels may vary depending on the operator.

Free time in La Paz: This period is self-guided and does not include a tour guide.

Uyuni conditions: The itinerary on the salt flats may vary depending on weather conditions. The mirror effect is a natural phenomenon subject to weather and usually occurs between January and March (rainy season). During the dry season, the salt flats appear as a vast white desert, ideal for photography.

Luggage: Main luggage is stored in the bus compartment. It is recommended to bring a small backpack with essentials for transfers. During the Uyuni tour, luggage may be stored at the agency office or transported safely on the roof rack of the 4×4 vehicle.

● La Paz (free time to explore the city)
● Uyuni City
● Train Cemetery
● Colchani village
● Uyuni Salt Flats
● Salt Flats “Eyes”
● Dakar Monument
● Salt Pyramids
● Incahuasi Island (giant cacti)

● Hotel pick-up in Cusco and transfer to the bus terminal
● Overnight bus Cusco – La Paz (semi-reclining seats)
● Overnight bus La Paz – Uyuni (semi-reclining seats)
● Transportation in a 4×4 Off-Road Vehicle (maximum 6 travelers)
● Pick-up from the bus terminal in Uyuni
● Guide service – based on your selected booking option
● Entrance tickets to all mentioned attractions in Uyuni
● Waterproof boots to enjoy the mirror effect (seasonal)
● First aid kit for a safe experience
● Picnic lunch in the Uyuni Salt Flats (Day 3)

● Meals and beverages, unless specified in the inclusions
● Travel insurance (refer to our booking conditions)
● Personal expenses, including tips and any additional costs
● Accommodation not included (not required for this tour)

● Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the intense salt flat reflections.
● Comfortable clothing – Wear breathable layers for long bus journeys and changing temperatures.
● Warm layers – Jacket, fleece, gloves, scarf, and hat; temperatures drop significantly at night and early morning.
Sun hat & warm hat – A wide-brim hat for the day and a beanie for cold conditions.
● Sunscreen & lip balm – Essential due to strong UV exposure at high altitude.
● Windbreaker & rain poncho (Dec–Apr) – Recommended during rainy season.
● Comfortable shoes – Sneakers or light hiking shoes for the Uyuni tour.
● Camera or smartphone – Capture the unique landscapes and perspective photos.
● Snacks & water – Especially useful during bus rides and waiting times.
● Personal medications – Include altitude sickness medication if needed.
● Passport / ID – Required for border crossing and checkpoints.
● Cash (BOB & small amount of PEN) – For small expenses, terminals, and snacks.
● Small backpack – For essentials during transfers and the Uyuni tour.
● Extra socks – Useful when using waterproof boots.
● Travel pillow & blanket (optional) – Recommended for overnight bus comfort.

Nomadex can help you arrange reliable bus transportation to and from La Paz, Sucre, and other major destinations across Bolivia.

Trans Omar bus company
Double-deck bus with 160° reclining seats, blankets, phone charger, and onboard restroom.

  • La Paz → Uyuni: $40 per person
  • Uyuni → La Paz: $40 per person

 

Titicaca bus company
More comfort and safety. Bus with 165° reclining seats, heating, blankets, phone charger at each seat, and two drivers.

  • La Paz → Uyuni: $55 per person
  • Uyuni → La Paz: $55 per person

 

Todo Turismo bus company
Maximum comfort. 160° reclining seats on the lower deck, dinner and breakfast included, plus a scenic photo stop.

  • La Paz → Uyuni: $65 per person
  • Uyuni → La Paz: $65 per person

 

Note: These prices can be viewed and paid at the time of booking in the “Add” section. For more information or assistance, you can chat with a Nomadex Bolivia advisor on WhatsApp.

RH

Ricardo Harris

Estados Unidos

March 17, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

We had a wonderful experience on the sunset tour. Everything was very well organized, from the pickup to the activities. The views were stunning, and the whole experience was smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommended!

GG

Gilles De La Gorce

Francia

March 9, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

It was an amazing experience. The sunset at the Uyuni Salt Flats was absolutely breathtaking, with incredible landscapes and beautiful colors. Everything was very well organized and the guide was very friendly. I highly recommend this tour.

RR

Roldan Rosas

Estados Unidos

March 6, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Omar our driver and guide really make our trip a memorable one. Highly recommended

AW

Aurora Walker

Estados Unidos

February 26, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Our guide did a great job of giving my family and I a special time out on the Uyuni salt flats. Unfortunately I left my expensive tripod in the vehicle and didn’t realize this until early the next morning as I was packing to catch a flight. Efrain was kind enough to drop it off at the Hotel that I was staying at. I’m very happy with the experience and the responsiveness of the staff. It was definitely worth the money.

JH

Joe Ho

Estados Unidos

February 22, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

We are lucky to see the good reflection.

YK

Yutien ku

China

February 13, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Quite nice. Took a lot of pictures though the weather was not so good.

IH

Iliana Hernandez

Colombia

January 08, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Excelente tour! Muy bien organizado y con una experiencia increíble de principio a fin, el sunset simplemente mágico, los colores y la energía del Salar de Uyuni hicieron que nuestra experiencia sea inolvidable. Gracias Nomadex!

RN

Ryodai Nishida

Japan

January 01, 2026 | Collected by Nomadex | From

とても楽しかった! 写真撮影も積極的にしてくれて満足してます。 忘れられない記憶になりました。

VL

Vera Lau

China

December 20, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

It was a wonderful trip with lots of beautiful pictures and memories! The tour guide was professional and passionate about his job to help us take excellent pictures during day time, evening and night shots. Highly recommended to anyone going to Uyuni!

EW

Emma Welsh

United Kingdom

May 04, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

The tour with Nomadex was amazing! The guide was super friendly and the sunset spot was absolutely stunning. I took some of the best photos of my trip. Totally recommended! 🌅📸

NK

Nikolai Krasheninnikov

United Kingdom

May 01, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Amazing landscape and everything was on time

TB

Tim Bröring

Germany

April 28, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Santset was an amazing experience. The service was exceptional, with a welcoming and personalized atmosphere. Every detail was carefully thought out, making it truly unique and memorable. Definitely an experience that exceeded my expectations.

NR

Norma Nilda Erpen

Argentina

April 25, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Todo estuvo muy bien. Excelente el trabajo del guía Robert . Recomiendo este tour

YT

Yoshitomo Tanaka

Japan

April 24, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

非常に満足しました。 星空の写真を撮るのも工夫してくれましたし、長靴など装具も良かったです。

SB

Sylvie Baiera

France

April 19, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Magnifique, les étoiles, le levé de soleil, Roberto de Nomadex était vraiment très bien

SD

Sebastien Davignon

France

April 15, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

he Sunset Tour was an unforgettable experience. Watching the sun slowly set on the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, was simply magical. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with warm hospitality and a perfect setting, made this experience truly unique.

RD

Rosario Rojas Diaz

Peru

April 11, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Todo estuvo espectacular, superó mis expectativas , el Guia Robert nos tomó fotos impresionantes y ni que decir de los videos increíbles. Unió a todo el grupo e hizo del atardecer un día especial e inolvidable

YL

Yvonne Leyhe

Germany

April 01, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

It was a fantastic experience, I really enjoyed it. Truly recommended, the Nomadex team was very profesional, they took nice photos.

YC

Yi Chin Chen

Taiwan

March 24, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

Roberto is a very great guide! He is patient, considerate, and really works hard to fulfill everyone’s needs.

KP

Kjell-Petter Hetland

Norway

March 06, 2025 | Collected by Nomadex | From

We got to change our trip to a sunset trip instead because we arrived very late in Uyuni, which was very kind of them. Our guide spoke english but was super kind and smiling. All in all a great trip!

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Cusco to Uyuni Salt Flats Tour: 3 Days / 2 Nights by Bus via Puno & La Paz

3 days/2 nights

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