Uyuni Salt Flats Tour: Starlight & Sunrise Review

Okay, so you’re probably dreaming of that otherworldly experience on the Salar de Uyuni, right? A starlit sky reflected on a seemingly infinite salt surface, then maybe the first rays of dawn painting the horizon. I get it; I was there too. And very, very honestly, a starlight and sunrise tour is often considered the ultimate experience. But is it very worth the very hype? Let’s take a look, yeah?

Why Go for a Starlight and Sunrise Tour?

The Uyuni Salt Flats, it is almost fair to say, transforms into a giant mirror after rainfall. During the dry season, too, it has a stark, desert-like appeal, right? So, the starlight and sunrise option takes this beautiful landscape and doubles down on the visual drama, too, is that not right? Here are a few reasons why you should definitely consider it:

Unbelievable Photo Opportunities: The reflections that you capture can literally become unreal. You will get the stars, then later, light changing in all sorts of vivid ways as the sun comes up. Bring your camera, because believe you me, it will earn it’s keep!
Quiet: Tours at these times avoid the daytime crowds. That allows a much quieter and intimate look, does it not?
Weather Permitting Beauty: You know what, if the sky’s clear, it’s just spectacular, that is all. But just so you know, it hinges on very good conditions, of course.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Now, truth be told, selecting the right operator is everything. Not slightly exaggerating when I suggest you put a lot of thought into that. Many companies run tours, yet the experiences and quality might actually be quite different. I suggest you keep a look out for operators that feature:

Experienced Guides: These people, arguably, should really know their stuff and speak at least some useful English. You want someone who can spot the constellations as easily as deal with any possible issues, too.
Well-Maintained Vehicles: That you need. Nobody actually wants to break down in the middle of the salt flats when it’s freezing, so do what you can to make sure, yeah?
Positive Reviews: Investigate what others had to say, especially about these odd-hours tours.

Tip: That’s worth knowing – get confirmation on everything beforehand, from exactly the kind of vehicle you will travel on, to even the plan for meals. Understand, you are spending a fair amount for that special experience; you really want it managed well.

What to Expect on a Starlight Tour

I have got to be very clear here – this will almost definitely require an early start! Or potentially a very late one, more like. That depends, of course, on the operator. You can possibly count on a jeep collecting you perhaps somewhere between midnight and 2 AM, to get you to the salar, I’d reckon.

Stargazing: Clearly this is what you are all there for. With zero light pollution and the endless blanket of the flats reflecting the sky, very prepare to be completely blown away, you understand? Seriously.

Photographing the Stars: I almost forgot, bring a tripod, you are going to very likely need it! Trying to take long exposure shots in the dark without one…almost impossible, really.

Cold: Do you have some cold weather clothing sorted out? I do think you should get this addressed. It gets very chilly out there. Pack layers and consider hats, gloves, and something for the wind, even if the daytime temperatures are really mild.

Chasing the Sunrise

Okay, so the wait for sunrise can become part of the whole experience. As the sky might begin to lighten, the whole salt flat is probably going to slowly start to come alive. This time can also be beautiful for more photographs and basically soaking everything in.

Sunrise Spectacle: Believe it or not, the actual sunrise, providing you have weather on your side, might be simply astonishing. That is very like it. Colors are changing, and as the first rays of sun reach across the salt, that’s some magical light, actually.

Breakfast with a View: Very likely, your operator will pack you breakfast. I do not see many finer locations in the world to appreciate a hot drink, for instance, than on top of the Uyuni Salt Flats at sunrise!

Essential Packing List for Your Tour

Right, getting ready is pretty important. I think you must keep the extreme conditions in mind, then, eh? Let’s run through some essentials:

Layers: Definitely important for staying comfortable as temperatures change dramatically, and I’m talking VERY dramatically!
Warm Clothing: Hats, gloves, scarves are nearly crucial, particularly during the starlight part.
Camera Gear: Definitely you are going to need a camera, extra batteries (cold drains batteries faster), and, you know, memory cards. Don’t say I didn’t say so! A tripod to boot!
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun reflects powerfully off the salt. Sunglasses can definitely assist with avoiding being blinded and sunscreen can obviously protect skin, even if it feels cold.
Comfortable Shoes: Very right pair helps, yeah? You’ll be doing some amount of strolling about, it is almost sure.
Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated, for sure. Plus, those snacks really help hold you over, really, when the next proper meal’s some time away.

Things to Consider Before Booking

It’s useful to be in the loop, just like you would do with pretty much everything.

Altitude Sickness: Uyuni sits at a fair height, that’s what it does, which probably makes altitude sickness something to consider. I recommend acclimatizing in a slightly lower location for a bit beforehand, if you are able. Drink a bit of coca tea too perhaps, and keep things really chilled for the first day or 2.
Weather Dependency: The whole tour pretty much swings on decent weather. Fog, snow, and rain, anyway, it will mean pretty sad stars and just not a lot of sunlight. Flexibility with travel dates might mean snagging clearer skies!
Tour Duration: That starlight/sunrise blend makes for a pretty long adventure that mixes some crazy hours. Is that going to suit you? I’d consider whether you enjoy a mix of those late/early sorts of times before opting to go.

Is the Uyuni Starlight and Sunrise Tour Very Worth It?

Very short story, providing weather conditions actually come together, I’d say yeah, definitely. The pictures and experiences I have are completely imprinted in the head forever! It is true, those stars and sun combining against an otherworldly canvas do make it simply special. Do be sure you check out the right company and also come completely equipped. That prep is absolutely what’s going to assist with making it simply outstanding.

In other words, is that going to suit you?