Siloli Desert Uyuni
A high-altitude desert in Bolivia's altiplano, famed for the wind-sculpted Stone Tree and surreal, colorful landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, less rain.
Siloli Desert Uyuni
Best Time
Clear skies, less rain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude desert in Bolivia's altiplano, famed for the wind-sculpted Stone Tree and surreal, colorful landscapes.
"The desert's colors are as vivid as they come, a photographer's dream. 
Layer Up! 🧥
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm layers, a windbreaker, and sun protection.
Hydrate & Protect 💧
The high altitude and dry air require constant hydration. Sunscreen and lip balm are essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stone Tree
Siloli Desert
A striking rock formation sculpted by wind into a tree-like shape, a surreal sight in the vast desert landscape.
Vivid Desert Hues
Siloli Desert
Experience a palette of earthy reds, oranges, and browns, creating a photographer's dream canvas.
Stargazing Spectacle
Siloli Desert (near Polques hot springs)
Witness an unparalleled view of the night sky, with stars appearing incredibly close and bright.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Tour Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Layer Up! 🧥
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm layers, a windbreaker, and sun protection.
Hydrate & Protect 💧
The high altitude and dry air require constant hydration. Sunscreen and lip balm are essential.
Camera Ready! 📸
The desert's colors and formations are incredibly photogenic. Bring extra batteries!
Book a Tour 🚗
Multi-day tours are the standard way to explore. Research reputable operators.
Tips
from all over the internet
Layer Up! 🧥
Temperatures fluctuate wildly. Pack warm layers, a windbreaker, and sun protection.
Hydrate & Protect 💧
The high altitude and dry air require constant hydration. Sunscreen and lip balm are essential.
Camera Ready! 📸
The desert's colors and formations are incredibly photogenic. Bring extra batteries!
Book a Tour 🚗
Multi-day tours are the standard way to explore. Research reputable operators.
Embrace the Cold 🥶
Evenings and early mornings can be freezing. Be prepared for the chill.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Siloli Desert for its surreal rock formations, particularly the iconic Stone Tree, and its stunning, colorful desert landscapes. The remote beauty and the incredible stargazing opportunities are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. However, many note the extreme cold, unpredictable weather, and the challenging, bumpy nature of the 4x4 tours.
"Very pretty formation of rocks in the absolute middle of nowhere. Only tourists from the Uyuni Tour groups were here. It was very cold and windy when we got here and it started to rain, weather is absolutely unpredictable."
Flo
"Amazing place!"
Joy Piao
"A beautiful, cold desert area. Tourists visit it on the same route that leads to Laguna Colorada and the volcanic geysers."
Laura Londoño González
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Siloli Desert is typically visited as part of a multi-day tour from Uyuni, Bolivia, or San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. These tours usually involve 4x4 vehicles and cover vast distances across the altiplano.
Self-driving is not recommended due to the remote terrain, lack of signage, and unpredictable conditions. Guided tours are the safest and most practical way to access the desert.
Both Uyuni, Bolivia, and San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, are popular starting points. Tours from San Pedro often include the Siloli Desert as part of a journey to Uyuni.
Reaching the Siloli Desert from Uyuni typically takes a full day of travel as part of a longer tour, often including stops at various lagoons and geological sites.
No, there are no public transport options directly to the Siloli Desert. Access is exclusively via organized 4x4 tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Siloli Desert itself doesn't typically require a separate ticket. However, national park fees and entrance fees for specific attractions along the tour route (like Laguna Colorada) are usually included in your tour package.
Tour prices vary significantly based on duration, inclusions, and comfort level. Expect to pay anywhere from $150-$500+ USD for a 3-5 day tour covering the Siloli Desert and surrounding areas.
Booking a few weeks to months in advance is advisable, especially if you plan to travel during the dry season (May-October) or holidays.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions, but tours involve long drives on rough terrain and high altitudes, which may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with serious health conditions. Consult your tour operator.
Yes, you can book tours in person in Uyuni, but it's often recommended to research and book in advance to secure a reputable operator and avoid last-minute price hikes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draw is the unique rock formations, particularly the 'Stone Tree,' and the striking, colorful desert landscapes. It's also a gateway to stunning lagoons and geysers.
The weather is extreme and unpredictable. Expect very cold temperatures, especially at night, strong winds, and intense sun during the day. Rain is also possible.
Absolutely! The desert's vibrant colors, unique rock formations, and vast landscapes make it a photographer's paradise.
Dress in warm layers, including thermal underwear, fleece, a waterproof and windproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots. Sunglasses and sunscreen are crucial.
Facilities are extremely limited. Restrooms are usually basic and found at tour stops or basic accommodations. There are no shops; you must bring all your supplies.
📸 ⭐ Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, casting long shadows and enhancing the desert's colors. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like flamingos. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and astrophotography.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Try shooting during golden hour to highlight its texture and form against the desert backdrop.
Yes, the remote location and minimal light pollution make it an exceptional spot for astrophotography. The stars are incredibly visible.
Look for the contrast between the arid desert and any distant colorful lagoons, capture the wind-sculpted rocks, and frame the vastness of the altiplano.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If traveling with older children or teenagers, focus on tours that offer slightly more comfortable vehicles and accommodations. Highlight the unique geological formations and the incredible stargazing as educational and awe-inspiring experiences. Ensure everyone is well-prepared for the cold and the altitude.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The desert's vibrant, earthy tones and the stark, wind-sculpted rock formations offer endless compositional possibilities. Don't miss the opportunity for astrophotography. The clear, unpolluted skies provide an incredible canvas for capturing the Milky Way and constellations. Many tours include overnight stays in remote areas perfect for stargazing.
🎒 Budget Backpackers
Be prepared for rustic conditions and pack essentials like snacks and water, as purchasing them in the desert is impossible. While the experience is incredible, factor in the cost of tours, which are the only way to access this remote region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unpredictable Climate of the Altiplano
Weather patterns are highly unpredictable. While the dry season (May to October) generally offers clearer skies, sudden rain showers or even snow can occur. This variability is a key characteristic of the Andean Altiplano and requires visitors to pack versatile clothing.
Key takeaway: Always pack layers, including thermal wear, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, a hat, and gloves, regardless of the season. Staying hydrated is also crucial due to the dry air and altitude.
Navigating the Siloli Desert: The Role of Tours
Most tours originate from either Uyuni, Bolivia, or San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. A common itinerary involves traveling from San Pedro to Uyuni, with the Siloli Desert and its famous Stone Tree being a highlight along the route. These tours often include visits to other remarkable sites like the colorful lagoons (Laguna Colorada, Laguna Verde), geysers, and hot springs.
+1When choosing a tour, consider the duration (3-5 days is common for a comprehensive experience), the type of accommodation (basic refugios or more comfortable hotels), and the vehicle condition. Reading reviews and comparing operators is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Photography in a Surreal Landscape
The desert's color palette is a photographer's dream, with rich ochres, reds, and browns dominating the landscape. The stark contrast between the arid terrain and the vibrant, mineral-rich lagoons often found nearby (like Laguna Colorada) provides incredible visual opportunities. Look for reflections in any water sources and the unique textures created by wind erosion.
Beyond the daytime beauty, the Siloli Desert is renowned for its exceptional stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the night sky explodes with stars, offering unparalleled opportunities for astrophotography. Many tours include overnight stays near hot springs, providing a warm spot to marvel at the cosmos and capture its brilliance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit