“What to Wear in the Salar de Uyuni”
Visiting the Salar de Uyuni , the world’s largest salt flat, is a unique experience that requires preparation. Although it may appear arid and flat at first glance, its extreme weather conditions and high altitude make choosing the right clothing essential. With the correct attire, you can fully enjoy the tour, from the intense midday heat to the extreme cold of the night.
In this guide, we show you what clothes to pack to be comfortable, protected, and ready to explore this stunning salt desert.
Understanding Climate and Altitude
The Salar de Uyuni is located 3,656 meters above sea level ; therefore, the altitude can affect your body if you are not used to it. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and acclimatize carefully.
The weather varies depending on the season:
Dry season (May to November):
Sunny and relatively warm days (15–25 °C).
Extremely cold nights, reaching -5 °C or even -10 °C.
Rainy season (December to April):
Appearance of the famous “water mirror”.
Cloudy and rainy days, with constant cold and high humidity.
Tip: Wearing layers of clothing is essential to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
Recommended layering system
The key to dressing correctly in Uyuni is to use a layering system , which allows you to adjust according to the weather and activity.
Base layer (first layer)
Function: To maintain body heat and absorb moisture.
Recommended garments:
Long-sleeved thermal T-shirts.
Thermal pants or quick-drying leggings.
Middle layer
Function: To insulate and retain heat.
Recommended garments:
Fleece lining or lightweight sweatshirt.
Chaquetas de lana o softshell.
Outer layer
Function: To protect from wind, rain, and salt.
Recommended garments:
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Water-resistant pants, especially during the rainy season.
Essential accessories
To complete your outfit and stay comfortable:
Hat and scarf: Protect head and neck from the cold and strong wind.
Thermal gloves: Keep your hands warm at all times.
Sunglasses with UV protection: Prevent damage from the intense reflection of the sun on the salt.
Sunscreen and lip balm: Altitude increases the intensity of UV rays, so protecting your skin is essential.
Small backpack: Useful for storing layers that you remove during excursions and keeping them dry.
Recommended footwear
Choosing the right footwear is essential for exploring the salt flats without problems:
Durable and comfortable boots: Ideal for walking on salt, mud or water during the rainy season.
Thermal socks: Keep your feet warm in the mornings and at night.
Optional: Waterproof shoes or sandals to rest and ventilate your feet after long walks.
Extra clothing for long excursions
During the tour days, consider bringing:
Lightweight clothing for the day: Long-sleeved T-shirts and comfortable pants that protect from the sun.
Spare clothes: Avoid spending the day in wet clothes, especially if you are crossing flooded or muddy areas.
Clothes for photos: Eye-catching colors or special accessories make your photos more spectacular.
Additional practical tips
Avoid cotton in the base layer, as it retains moisture and cools the body.
Stay hydrated; altitude and intense sun can cause dehydration.
Keep an extra vest or light jacket in the car during long tours.
Protect your camera or cell phone from salt and wind with waterproof cases.
Prefer several thin layers instead of one thick one, as this will allow you to adapt better to temperature changes.
Conclusion
Properly preparing for the Salar de Uyuni not only ensures comfort but also makes the experience safer and more enjoyable. Furthermore, with the right clothing, you can savor every moment , admiring the unique landscapes of the salt desert, the spectacular sunsets, the geysers, and the nearby lagoons, without the cold or altitude ruining your adventure.
Dressing smart not only keeps you warm and protected; it also allows you to adapt to changing weather and, therefore, make the most of every moment of this magical destination, fully enjoying the experience and the scenery .