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What to Pack for Uyuni

What to Pack for Uyuni

Uyuni Potosi, Bolivia Travel Guide

Layering for Warmth

Layering fits excellent due to extreme temperature differences between day and night, regardless of season.

Recommended Layers

  • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal long underwear (top and bottom) of merino wool or synthetic material.
  • Mid-Layers: Insulating Fleece jackets or sweaters. Two or three mid-layers are useful.
  • Outer Layer: A warm, packable down or synthetic Puffer jacket is a good choice, especially for evenings. A lightweight, waterproof, and windproof outer shell jacket also fits well.

Bottoms & Cultural Notes

Choose appropriate leg wear for varying conditions. Bolivia is generally conservative, so practical, warm clothing takes priority.

Lower Body & Modesty

  • Bottoms: Comfortable, loose-fitting trousers for daytime. Fleece-lined or insulated trousers/Ski pants for evenings and nights, especially on multi-day tours. Avoid jeans; they dry slowly and offer poor insulation when wet.
  • Cultural Dress: Practical, warm clothing is the focus.
  • Religious Sites (outside Uyuni): Shoulders and knees should be covered. Formal wear is not applicable to the Uyuni region.

Footwear Essentials

Hiking Boots

Waterproof or water-resistant, well broken-in Hiking boots with good ankle support are a strong choice for comfort and protection on varied terrain.

Consider Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots.

Comfortable Shoes

Bring comfortable shoes or Sandals for use in the vehicle or around basic accommodations. Sandals work for the hot springs.

Ease and practicality for downtime.

Warm Socks

Multiple pairs of wool or synthetic thermal Socks are a good idea. Avoid cotton, as it dries slowly and offers poor insulation when wet.

Keep feet warm in cold conditions.

Essential Documents

Your Travel Portfolio

Keeping your documents organized and secure is a very important task.

  • Original passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond travel).
  • Printed copy of your Bolivian visa (as needed).
  • Photocopies and digital copies of your passport and visa (keep separate).
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (original and copy).
  • List of medications with generic names and dosages; doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Printed and digital copies of travel insurance, including emergency contact numbers.
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, tour operator, local emergency services).
  • Printed and have digital versions of all reservations (flights, accommodation, tour).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up can be a challenge in remote Uyuni. Plan your electronics carefully.

Charging & SIM Cards

Photography & Apps

Capture the stunning landscapes with the right gear and stay organized with useful apps.

Camera & Digital Tools

Data Backup & Online Security

Backup Solutions

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) and/or an External hard drive or large USB stick for photo backups.

VPN Usage

A VPN service (NordVPN, ExpressVPN) adds privacy and security on public Wi-Fi networks.

Online Shopping

For electronics, consider retailers like B&H Photo for reliable gear before your trip.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Pack a personal health kit, as access to specific items is limited in remote areas.

Kit Contents

Medications & Hygiene

Ensure you have all necessary medications and personal hygiene items, some of which are hard to find locally.

Carry with Care

Altitude & Sun Protection

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Altitude: Prescription Acetazolamide (Diamox) if recommended. Coca leaves/tea are traditional.
  • Motion Sickness: Anti-nausea medication like Dramamine for bumpy 4x4 rides.
  • Insect Repellent: Not typically for Uyuni, but useful for other parts of Bolivia.

Sun & UV Protection

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Sleeping

Gear can greatly enhance your Uyuni experience. Choose wisely whether to rent or bring items.

Renting vs. Bringing

Decide if you rent items from tour operators or bring your own based on quality and availability.

  • A Bag for sleeping ins: Commonly available for rent from tour operators in Uyuni, but quality varies.
  • Trekking Poles: Are available for rent in major cities or bought cheaply locally, but if you possess a preferred pair, bring them.
  • Camera Gear: Bring your own if you are serious about photography. Rentals are scarce in Uyuni.
  • General Gear: Check if local quality meets your expectations before relying on rentals.

Uyuni Specifics

Some specialty items fit well for the unique Uyuni experiences.

  • High-Quality Sunglasses: Category 4 lenses are best for extreme glcan be found on the salt flats.
  • Headlamp or Small Flashlight: Valuable for moving around basic accommodations at night or for early morning starts. A Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp is a reliable choice.
  • Camera Tripod: Critical for mirror effect and astrophotography.
  • Dust Protection: For camera gear in dry, dusty conditions.

Equipment Decision Matrix

Advantages of Buying/Bringing

  • Guaranteed quality and in good condition for must-have items like hiking boots and a warm sleeping bag.
  • Familiarity and comfort with your own gear.
  • Cost-effective for items you will use frequently in future travels.
  • No concern about rental availability or return logistics.

Advantages of Renting

  • Less to carry on long flights and during transit.
  • Suitable for single-use or occasional specialized items.
  • Can be cheaper for very expensive or bulky items you will not use again.
  • Avoids maintenance and storage costs for purpose-built kit.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These smaller items make a big difference for your comfort and peace of mind.

Essential Additions

Uyuni Specifics & Local Buys

Certain items are especially good for the Uyuni region or harder to purchase locally.

Region-Specific Necessities

  • Coca Leaves/Tea Bags: Can ease altitude sickness symptoms.
  • Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, dried fruit are practical on tours where food options are limited between meals.
  • Toilet Paper: Important for public restrooms and tour stops.
  • Small Backpack: For daily items during the tour, separate from main luggage stored on the roof of the 4x4.

Difficult to Find Locally

Cold Weather Gear

High-quality down jackets, thermal underwear.

Specific Medications

Prescription or specialty over-the-counter.

High-End Camera Gear

Lenses, specialized tripods, specific camera bodies.

Quality Electronics

Good quality travel adapters and power banks.

Prepare Your Pack

Your Main Luggage

  • Pack light for ease of movement, but include all necessary layers for warmth.
  • Consider a duffel bag or backpack rather than a hard-shell suitcase for 4x4 tours.
  • Main luggage is often strapped to the roof of the car; ensure it is waterproof or cover it.

Small Daypack for the 4x4

  • Keep frequently accessed items here: camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses.
  • Include a small bag for garbage, as facilities are minimal in remote areas.
  • A compact, foldable bag can be useful for laundry or souvenirs.

Packing Smart

Efficient packing for Uyuni balances warmth and practicality. Wearing layers is your best friend, and robust gear will make your experience more pleasant.

Leave non-essential items at home to travel lighter.