A magical and surreal landscape where nature seems to imitate art, in the heart of the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve.
The desert takes its name from its resemblance to the landscapes in the surreal works of Catalan painter Salvador Dalí.
An endless arid expanse of supernatural colours, the Salvador Dali Desert is famous for its rich palette of colours. The unique colours of the Salvador Dali Desert are due to the minerals that form the surrounding mountains; the region also has a significant volcanic activity.
Crossing the enormous desert, which covers an area of 110 kilometres, you can observe isolated rock formations that look like mysterious characters, shipwrecked by accident in a sea of sand and stone. These forms are the result of thousands of years of erosion caused by the extreme climate of the region. Climbing these rocks provides spectacular views of the desert’s vastness.
Given the harsh climate, the only inhabitants are wildlife that has adapted to living in this difficult environment, such as vicunas and Andean foxes.
Curiously, Salvador Dalí not only never visited this place, he was not even aware of its existence. This makes the landscape's resemblance to many of the artist's paintings all the more peculiar.
Let yourself be seduced by a landscape that seems to made of the stuff of dreams. Write to us and we can help you plan your trip to this attraction.
Additional Info
We recommend warm and windproof clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, hat and sunglasses, binoculars, camera.
Suggested periods
- Weekend
Where
Eduardo Avaroa Andean Reserve, San Pablo de Lípez municipality, Potosí department.
Transportation
By private transport
From Uyuni take National Route 5 and later Highway 701 towards the border crossing with Chile Hito Cajones. Highway 701 crosses the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve; the Salvador Dalí desert is before the Chile-Bolivia border. The road is mostly dirt and sand, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
For your own health and that of the local population, remember to respect all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: bring a mask and hand sanitizer, as well as a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medication for altitude sickness.
During your visit, remember to protect the region's cultural and natural heritage.