15 Insane(But true) Things about Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni-World’s largest mirror
- Measuring at 10,582 km, Salar de Uyuni is the biggest salt flat in the world.
- One of the most popular attractions in Salar de Uyuni is a cemetery for trains. It contains all the trains that were used in mining during the 1940s and currently attracts thousands of tourists every year.
- At times salt flat is covered in very clear water, making it the largest natural mirror in the world.
- An estimated 11 billion tons of salt is believed to be within Salar de Uyuni.
- NASA uses this place to figure out the positioning of its satellites.
- There are 80 species of birds, including three species of flamingos.
- It was believed that Salar de Uyuni was completely flat, but later some small undulations were discovered on the surface.
- The best time to visit Salar de Uyuni depends on the experience you are looking for.For the best climate, visit between July and October. For the chance to see the wet flats, visit between March and April.
- Salar de Uyuni has an astonishing view of the night sky. During this time, the shallow salt lake perfectly mirrors the night sky, creating bizarre illusions of infinity.
- Bolivia is a diamond in the rough if you fly south to Salar de Uyuni, the endless salt plains in Bolivia’s south. As you skim over its polished surface in a four-wheel drive, you’ll come across boiling springs and glistening salt lakes. The few high points of this remote terrain, shimmer on the horizon like a mirage in a desert.
- For a unique experience, stay in a hotel made almost entirely out of salt before you return to civilization. The gateway to the salt plains is Potosí, a place where you can mingle with the locals and admire a blend of architectural styles.
- A highlight attraction here is walking over the roof of the San Francisco Convent, to find a sea of terra cotta at your feet. In the distance, Cerro Rico, which means “Rich Hill”, was once a bountiful silver and tin deposit. These precious metals provided the fortunes needed to establish the constitutional capital, Sucre, a three-hour drive away.
- As with diamonds, it’s the core that is the most brilliant and that certainly is the case with this central Bolivian city. Nicknamed “Ciudad Blanca,” the “White City,” Sucre’s white-washed colonial buildings and fountains reflect the sunlight.
- Exploring Bolivia holds the promise of discovery, the prospect of finding something precious where few have cared to look. Whether you visit its heritage cities to chase the romance of the days gone by or engage in thrilling outdoor adventures, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful memories for life.
- Many people consider it as one of the greatest wonders and truly is a weird wonder of nature.
FAQ
What does Salar de Uyuni mean in English?
Salar means salt flat in Spanish. Uyuni originates from the Aymara language and means a pen (enclosure); Uyuni is a surname and the name of a town that serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the Salar. Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salar_de_Uyuni
Is Salar de Uyuni safe?
Most tourist destinations in Bolivia provide visitors with a pleasant and safe stay. Uyuni, in particular, is thought to be healthy. The Uyuni Salt Flat is immense. Do not try to travel into or through the desert on foot.
Why is Salar de Uyuni famous?
The Salar de Uyuni is mostly flat terrain with a few ‘islands’ here and there that contain large reserves of brine enriched with lithium. This extraordinary natural wonder meets 70% of the world’s total lithium demand, making this location an important part of the Bolivian economy.
How much does it cost to go to Salar de Uyuni?
A one-day tour can cost as little as $20, while a tour for more than one day can range from $90-$500. Simple three-day Salar de Uyuni tours will cost between $100-$150 and that should include transport, meals, and all the sights on the trip
Can you eat salt from salt flats?
Yes! The salt was once mined for use in food.
