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When is the best time to visit the Uyuni Salt Flats?

There is no good or bad time to visit the salt flats, it is simply a question of what you are looking for.

December - January - February: The Great Mirror

At the beginning of every year, the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia becomes the largest natural mirror in the world. As this giant desert of salt is covered by water during the rainy season, it reflects light creating almost impossible optical illusions. This time of the year is highly popular with tourists for visiting Uyuni.

When can I see this phenomenon?

In summer, between January and March. Generous rains fall on the bolivian highlands, turning the Uyuni Salt Flats into something similar to a giant lake a few centimeters deep. In some years, depending on precipitation, you can still see this effect in the beginning of April.

Does the water cause difficulties for the travellers?

Depending on the amount of water that accumulates, access to Incahuasi and Fish islands can become restricted for safety reasons.

Why the flooding?

Several rivers deposit their sediments in the Uyuni Salt Flats and the water accumulates on the nearly waterproof salty surface.
Another less-known attraction is the large number (around 25000) of flamingos that gather at the Red Lagoon in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve during the rainy seeason for mating.

March - April - May

There are far fewer tourists during these months, so you can get better deals from tour operators. The weather is still warmer and with a good guide you can find some places with water to see the mirror effect.

June - July - August: Cold, dry, white

Winter. Dress warm. Take extra blankets. The Salt Flat is a huge white beach-like desert during this time.

September - October - November

These months are less cold, still dry with occasional rains.

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