10 Day Salt Flats Of Bolivia & Chile Small Group Tour
This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
✓ Incredible sightseeing, including city tours of La Paz & colonial Sucre, visit the silver mining town of Potosi, experience breathtaking scenery of the Uyuni Salt Flats, geysers, mountains and lagoons of the Bolivian high plateau, and explore the stunning Atacama Desert region
✓ 4x4 Excursion to the Salt Flats
✓ 9 nights in quality 3, 4 & 5-star hotels throughout Bolivia & Chile
✓ Breakfast daily, 2 lunches
✓ Fully escorted by professional, English-speaking guide
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✓ Dedicated, comfortable transportation throughout
✓ Economy Flight La Paz to Sucre
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to La Paz. On arrival please make your own way to your hotel. Alternatively, you can pre book a private arrival transfer where a representative will meet you on arrival and transfer you to the hotel. Further details can be found under the ‘Extra Services’.
At around 3,600 m, La Paz feels like the top of the world. Although Sucre is the official capital of Bolivia, La Paz is the centre of commerce, finance and industry. Despite the abundance of colonial architecture, La Paz's indigenous roots run deep, and the atmosphere in the market-filled streets is both modern and traditional.
There are no activities planned for today so you are free to explore.
This morning enjoy a half day tour to experience the city. Visit the Killi Killi viewpoint where you can take impressive pictures of the city. Then visit the historic centre of the city of La Paz including Plaza Murillo, Executive Palace, Legislative Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. We will then continue to the Valle de Luna, or Moon Valley, to see amazing geological formations. Created by erosion, the valley resembles a lunar landscape.
On return to the city centre, we will take a ride on the yellow line cable car for a beautiful panorama of the city of La Paz. One of the most picturesque means of urban air transport, the cable car will allow you to witness the secrets of the city from the air as well as admire the snow-capped mountain of Illimani.
Finally, visit the Mercado de las Brujas (Witches Market), a place full of traditions and objects to carry out ancestral Andean rituals. Other stalls display colourful handi-crafts. Later transfer back to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport to take your included flight to Sucre. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Sucre is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Bolivia and South America. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the enchanting streets of the city, where the neoclassical facades, magnificent colonial churches, and the warm hospitality of its people create a captivating atmosphere.
Known as the "Ciudad Blanca" or White City, Sucre preserves the colonial architecture of past centuries in its historic centre. Explore the most attractive places and important historical monuments, including the May 25th Square, the Cathedral, the renowned House of Freedom (where Bolivia's declaration of independence was signed on August 6th, 1825), the museum, The Recoleta (which served as a convent, barracks, prison,and museum), the Church of San Francisco, and much more.
This morning is free to further explore the city.
In the afternoon you will be transferred to Potosi by private transport (approx. 3 hours). Once the wealthiest city in the Americas thanks to its location at the base of silver ore-rich Cerro Rico (Rich Hill). The discovery and extraction of the silver led to a financial boom for the Spanish empire; however, the city’s riches quickly diminished and its citizens soon slipped into poverty once the silver dried up.
Begin your morning with a guided walking tour through the significant streets of Potosi, exploring the local market, and venturing to a silver mine, where we hear from a former miner about its history and tragic legacy.
Note: To ensure a safer and enriching experience, we've collaborated with a local operator to provide a secure option for your mine visit. This tour involves a visit to the miner's market, a minerals distillery, and an external exploration of the mine. We believe this experience offers a great understanding of the socio, cultural, and economic importance of the mine to Potosi and the region while avoiding the risks associated with entering the mine. Please be aware that your group leader is strictly prohibited from recommending or assisting travellers in booking alternative mine tours.
In the afternoon, leave Potosi behind and embark on a journey to the town of Uyuni (approx. 3-4 hours). Nestled on the edge of the high Altiplano, Uyuni serves as a gateway to the expansive Salt Flats. Notably, it is situated above the world's largest lithium reserve, boasting around 100 million tons. While this won't jumpstart a dead battery, the extracted lithium from Uyuni has the potential to fuel the planet's smartphones and electric cars for the next century. Upon arrival, take advantage of free time to relax before the thrilling Salar de Uyuni excursion scheduled for tomorrow.
Today we take an exciting full day excursion to the incredible salt flats of Bolivia. First stop will be the Train Cemetery. Later, we'll head to the town of Colchani, where the salt processing centre is located. You'll receive a comprehensive explanation of the drying, grinding, and packaging process.
Afterward, we'll proceed to the salar, making our first stop at the Ojos de Salar, offering a glimpse of the internal activity of the salt flat. Following that, we'll visit Playa Blanca, home to the unique "Salt Hotel-Museum," the first of its kind.
Around noon, we'll explore "Incahuasi Island" situated in the heart of the Salt Flat. Here, you'll encounter extraordinary calcareous rocks, extensive populations of cacti, caves, tunnels, and a breathtaking 360- degree panoramic view of the Salt Flat.
By late afternoon, we'll return to the hotel.
Note: Transport today will be by 4x4 with 4 guests per vehicle to ensure a window seat. Your tour leader will rotate between vehicles throughout the day.
An early start today as we head to the Bolivia and Chile border. Please remember to keep your passport handy.
The journey will take most of the day but offers stunning scenery along the way as you pass by geysers, salt flats and snow-capped volcanoes on your way to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. There will be opportunities to stop for photos and stretch your legs. Lunch is included enroute.
As a small oasis town, San Pedro is surrounded by extraordinary scenery. Your night is free to explore the town and its many restaurants.
This morning is at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the many shops and cafes of the township.
In the afternoon, indulge in a private tour to the Moon Valley, one of the key highlights of the salt mountain range. Explore the duna mayor, the amphitheatre, the tres marías, and the scenic viewpoint known as “Piedra del Coyote.” As the day concludes, savour the breathtaking sunset against the backdrop of the Andes Mountain range, accompanied by a delightful cocktail for your enjoyment.
Today is free to explore the local area and its stunning scenery. We recommend booking an optional tour to make the most of your time in this unique landscape.
Note: the below mentioned tours may be shared with other travellers. Due to timings, only 1 optional tour may be booked for this day.
Nestled within the Puritama canyon, approximately 28km from San Pedro, there are 8 pools where you can indulge in a blissful two-hour session of ultimate relaxation. Pool temperatures are above 30°C (86°F) and allow a maximum of 12 people in each pool at any one time. Bathrooms and dressing rooms are located at the site.
Includes: Transportation, Entrance Fee, Spa Robe
Duration: 5 hours approx.
Difficulty: Low
Altitude: 3,500 metres/11,500 feet
Nestled within the Domeyko Mountain Range, the Rainbow Valley is a stunning canvas painted by a series of geological events. Situated just 50 minutes northwest of San Pedro de Atacama, it offers a guided circuit through the Hierbas Buenas petroglyphs and the valley. This journey provides a comprehensive understanding of the scenic and historical richness that defines this captivating location.
Includes: Transportation, Hierbas Buenas & Rainbow Valley entrance fee + Snack
Difficulty: Low
Altitude: 3,000 metres/9,800 feet
Duration: 5 hours approx.
The inhabitants of Atacama were known for their roles as ranchers, farmers, and warriors dedicated to safeguarding their territories. Our exploration commences at Pukará de Quitor, where these people once organized themselves to confront and resist the looming European invasion. Despite facing defeats, their resilience endured for over two decades. Subsequently, we will explore Tulor Village, unearthed in 1958 by the Jesuit priest Gustavo Le Paige. This village stands as a testament to the traditional Atacameños culture and lifestyle.
Includes:Tulor & Pukara de Quitor entrance fees & Snack
Difficulty: Low
Altitude: 2,500 metres/8,200 feet
Duration: 5 hours approx.
Embarking on a journey south of San Pedro de Atacama, our route leads us to the Sico border crossing. Our initial pause takes place in a Tamarugo forest for a delightful breakfast. Continuing our expedition, we arrive at the captivating Red Stones, offering a trail that brings us closer to "Salar de Aguas Calientes III," situated at the base of Piedras Rojas. Amidst this stunning backdrop, we arrange for a scenic lunch.
Our next highlight unfolds at the Altiplano Lagoons, where the Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons reveal themselves against the backdrop of majestic volcanoes. As we explore, we encounter the Tropic of Capricorn, pausing for a snapshot and sharing insights about this southern hemisphere parallel.
Venturing further south of San Pedro de Atacama, we encounter Chile's largest salt deposit, hosting significant minerals such as lithium. Delving into the heart of the salt flat, we encounter the Chaxa lagoon, showcasing up to three different flamingo species alongside other avian inhabitants. Adjacent to the salt flat, we explore Toconao town, gaining insights into the local culture of the region.
Includes: Transportation, Miscanti, Miñiques & Chaxa entrance fees, box lunch
Difficulty: Medium
Altitude: 4.200 metres / 13,800 feet
Duration: 10 Hours approx.
Bring: Warm clothing (temperature may fall below 0°C / 32°F)
Situated just 1.5 hours' drive from San Pedro de Atacama, the Tatio showcases the highest boiling point, with over 80 active geysers dotting its landscape. Departing from the town in the early morning, we are treated to the spectacle of the largest geothermal field in the southern hemisphere and one of the world's most expansive. Outside the park, we pause at a wetland, observing the local fauna while enjoying our breakfast. Our journey then takes us to the Putana wetland, offering views of the active volcano of Putana. The final stop brings us to the Machuca wetland, where we can encounter flamingos before returning to San Pedro.
Includes: Tatio Geyser entrance fee & Breakfast
Difficulty: Medium
Altitude: 4,300 metres / 14,100 feet
Duration: 7 hours approx.
Bring: Warm clothing (temperature may fall below 0°C / 32°F)
Your tour comes to an end today and there are no activities planned. If you want to spend more time in San Pedro, we’ll be more than happy to assist in booking additional nights.
At the appropriate time, you’ll be transferred to Calama airport to take your flight (flight is not included). Please note that the airport is approximately 90 minutes drive from San Pedro de Atacama. We recommend booking a flight after midday to partake in the included transfer.
We hope you have been inspired by the spectacular scenery of Bolivia & Chile.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Travelling at altitude
Several areas visited on this tour are located at approximately 3700-4000 metres (approx. 13000 feet) above sea level where it’s common for travellers to experience some adverse health effects due to altitude – regardless of age, gender and fitness. It's important that you discuss this itinerary and your travel plans with your doctor beforehand. Prescription medication to prevent altitude sickness is available. If left untreated, altitude sickness can lead to serious health complications or even be fatal. While on tour, safety is paramount and it’s important that you discuss any altitude sickness symptoms with your local guide, so that appropriate medical attention can be provided. Follow this link for more helpful information on altitude sickness.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $869.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
4 - 20 Persons
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
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