Pre-Trip Checklist: Uyuni

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to your travel planning.

Planning Milestones

Structured steps for preparation.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa needs; apply if necessary.

Flights

Book international flights to Bolivia (La Paz/Santa Cruz).

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations and altitude sickness medication. Purchase travel insurance World Nomads.

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights to Uyuni (if flying). Book accommodation in Uyuni town.

Tour & Transport

Finalize and book your Salar de Uyuni tour operator. Get an IDP if driving (not recommended).

Packing & Gear

Start packing list; purchase specialized gear (warm clothing, sunglasses, power bank).

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, tours).

Funds & Documents

Withdraw USD cash (clean bills) and local currency. Copy all documents (digital & physical).

Digital Readiness

Inform bank of travel. Download offline maps and translation apps. Pack main luggage and a small daypack.

Required Bookings

Secure your travel elements ahead of time.

Reservations

International and domestic flights.
Uyuni town accommodation.
Salar de Uyuni tour (especially private or high season).
Train tickets (if using).

Pre-Trip Research

Gather information before your journey.

Information Gathering

Read recent travel blogs and tour operator reviews.
Understand altitude sickness challenges.
Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases.
Research current weather conditions for your travel dates.

Home Preparation

Steps to secure your home before departure.

Notifications

Notify family/friends of itinerary and emergency contacts.
Arrange for mail collection.
Arrange for pet care.
Arrange for plant watering.

Security Measures

Secure all doors and windows.
Set timers for lights.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.
Stop newspaper deliveries.

Financial Alerts

Inform bank or credit card companies of travel plans.
Confirm travel insurance details.
Pay recurring bills.
Organize travel funds.

Travel Alert

Always check the latest travel advisories for Bolivia before your departure date.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth entry.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Clear
Clear immigration; ensure passport is stamped with the correct duration.
2
Currency & SIM
Exchange currency or withdraw cash (in major cities). Purchase local SIM card if desired.
3
Transport & Settle
Arrange transport from airport/bus station to accommodation. Settle in.

Orientation & Purchases

Locate Your Stay
Find your accommodation. Verify your booking details.
Town Exploration
Walk around Uyuni town center to get oriented. Find local services.
Initial Needs
Purchase bottled water, snacks, or any forgotten warm items.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs

Purchase souvenirs in Uyuni town or Colchani.

Shipping items from Uyuni is not practical or reliable.

Departure Timing

For flights, arrive at Uyuni airport 1-1.5 hours before. For buses/trains, arrive 30-45 minutes early.

Tours usually end around 4-5 PM, allowing time for evening transport.

Return Trip Prep

Ensure your onward flight, bus, or train tickets are ready.

Keep some local currency for departure taxes or last-minute purchases.

Important Reminders

Double-check all documents and confirm local conditions before any onward travel.

Travel Logistics

Comprehensive planning for a seamless journey.

Aspects

Documentation: Valid passport, visas, and copies.
Health: Vaccinations, altitude sickness prevention, travel insurance.
Finances: Sufficient cash, credit cards, notify banks.
Itinerary: Confirmed flights, accommodation, and tours.

Pre-Journey Advice

Packing Guidance: Layers, warm clothing, sun protection, personal toiletries. Consider Eagle Creek for organizers.
Altitude Adaptation: Spend time acclimatizing in higher cities.
Power: Portable chargers and universal adapters.
Security: Keep valuables secure. Consider a VPN like NordVPN for online safety.

Risk Management

Minimizing potential travel issues.

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Contacts:110 (Police), 119 (Fire), 160 (Ambulance)
Embassy Information:Know your country's local embassy details.
Medical Kit:Carry a basic first-aid kit.
Contingency Funds:Extra cash for unforeseen events.

Connectivity & Transport

Internet Access: Wi-Fi is available in hotels; mobile data is possible with local SIM.
Local SIM Cards: Acquire upon arrival for better connectivity.
Local Transport: Taxis are common in Uyuni town; tours are typically in 4x4 vehicles.
Inter-city Travel: Buses and flights connect Uyuni with larger Bolivian cities.

Advisory Notice

Always stay informed about local regulations, road conditions, and tour operator reliability.

Pre-Trip Checklist