L'essentiel de Uyuni

Uyuni Municipality Essentials

The Uyuni Municipality serves as the primary gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. This collection highlights the region's industrial and natural heritage, featuring the iconic Train Cemetery with its 19th-century steam locomotives and the historic mining center of Pulacayo. Visitors can observe traditional salt processing in the village of Colchani, explore natural groundwater springs known as the 'Eyes of the Salt Flat,' and browse artisanal markets for local textiles and salt crafts.

Uyuni Municipality Essentials — Carte

Herr stahlhoefer / Public domain

A

Railroad Museum

An open-air site on the outskirts of Uyuni containing dozens of rusting steam locomotives and rail cars dating back to the late 19th century, abandoned after the collapse of the local mining industry.

B

Museo de la Sal

A small museum in Colchani constructed entirely from salt blocks, featuring sculptures and exhibits detailing the history of regional salt extraction and processing.

C

Eyes of the Salt Flat

Known locally as Ojos del Salar, these are natural outlets where cold groundwater under pressure bubbles up through holes in the salt crust, often revealing colorful mineral deposits.

D

Colchani

A small settlement on the edge of the salt flats where residents traditionally harvest and process salt. It serves as the main entry point for tours and features local craft stalls.

E

Museo de Locomotoras Pulacayo

Located in the historic mining town of Pulacayo, this site displays vintage steam engines, including one reportedly robbed by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid during their time in Bolivia.

F

Mercado Artesanal

A market in Colchani specializing in goods made from salt, such as small llama figurines, alongside traditional Andean textiles like alpaca wool sweaters and blankets.

G

Museo Ferrocarril y Centro de Interpretación de Uyuni

An indoor museum and interpretation center detailing the history of the Bolivian railway system and its role in the development of the Uyuni region.

H

Monumento a los Héroes de la Guerra del Chaco

A commemorative monument in Uyuni dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the Chaco War between Bolivia and Paraguay from 1932 to 1935.

I

Mercado Central

A traditional indoor market where locals shop for fresh produce and household goods. It also features small stalls serving local Bolivian dishes like salteñas and api.

J

Hotel de Sal Luna Salada

An accommodation built almost entirely from salt blocks, including the walls, floors, and furniture, located on a hill overlooking the Salar de Uyuni.

K

Mina Huanchaca

The ruins of a significant 19th-century silver mine and refinery, once one of the most technologically advanced mining operations in South America.