Nearest Airport To Uyuni Bolivia: Your Gateway To The Salt Flats

The closest airport to Uyuni is Joaquin V. Gonzalez International Airport (UYU), also known as Uyuni Airport, in Uyuni. That’s right, it’s right there in Uyuni! But, let’s be real, it might not be the most convenient option, especially if you’re coming from a long distance.

Let me explain. Uyuni Airport serves primarily domestic flights. It doesn’t have many international flights, and the ones that do exist are usually with airlines from neighboring countries like Chile and Argentina.

Exploring Your Options: Flights and Transfers

If you’re flying in from a country further away, you’ll likely land at a major airport in Bolivia, like El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz or Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz.

Getting from La Paz (LPB) to Uyuni

From La Paz, you’ve got a couple of options:

Fly to Uyuni: A direct flight from La Paz to Uyuni is a good option, but it’s usually a bit pricier than other routes. There are a few airlines that operate this route, including Boliviana de Aviación (BOA) and Amaszonas.
Take a bus: Another option is to take a bus from La Paz to Uyuni. It’s a bit of a longer journey, about 12 to 14 hours, but it can be more budget-friendly. Many bus companies operate this route, so you’ll have plenty of choices.

Getting from Santa Cruz (VVI) to Uyuni

Now, if you’re flying into Santa Cruz, here’s what you need to know:

Bus: The most common way to get to Uyuni from Santa Cruz is by bus. The journey takes around 15 to 18 hours, and you’ll likely need to change buses in Cochabamba, a larger city in the central part of Bolivia.

Think about Your Travel Style

It all comes down to what you prioritize:

Time: If you want the quickest route, flying directly from La Paz to Uyuni is your best bet.
Budget: Taking the bus from La Paz or Santa Cruz might be more affordable, but keep in mind that the journey takes much longer.

Finding the Best Flights

So, how do you find the best flights and prices?

Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights are great resources for comparing prices and finding deals.
Don’t forget about the airlines themselves. Sometimes you can find better deals by booking directly through the airline’s website.
Consider the time of year you’re traveling. Prices can fluctuate depending on the season, with higher prices during peak tourist season.

Alternatives to Uyuni Airport

Let’s say you’re open to exploring a little further. If you want to avoid the potential hassle of smaller airports, you could consider landing at El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz. It’s a much larger airport with more international flights and connections. From La Paz, you’d then have the options we talked about before: flying directly to Uyuni or taking a bus.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Here’s a quick rundown of some frequently asked questions about getting to Uyuni:

Q: Is it possible to fly directly to Uyuni from Europe or the US?
A: Not directly. You’ll need to connect through another airport, most likely in South America.

Q: Are there any low-cost airlines that fly to Uyuni?
A: Amaszonas and Boliviana de Aviación (BOA) are generally considered lower-cost options.

Q: How long does the bus ride from La Paz or Santa Cruz to Uyuni take?
A: The journey from La Paz takes about 12 to 14 hours. From Santa Cruz, it’s around 15 to 18 hours, often requiring a change in Cochabamba.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Uyuni?
A: The best time is during the dry season, from May to October. This is when the weather is clear and the salt flats are at their most reflective.

Q: What are some popular things to do in Uyuni?
A: Visiting the Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats), the world’s largest salt flat, is a must-do. Other activities include:

Taking a tour to Isla Incahuasi, an island in the salt flats with giant cacti.
Visiting the Colchani salt mine village.
Exploring the Uyuni Cemetery, with its collection of abandoned train engines and carriages.

Ready to plan your trip? You’ve got the information you need!

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