Uyuni

Uyuni is the gateway to the Salar, the world's largest salt flat, 10,000 square kilometres of blinding white hexagons that turn into a perfect mirror after rain.

A 4x4 loop carries on south through red and green altiplano lagoons stained by minerals and flamingos, past geysers steaming at 5,000 metres.

Fly into:

• Joya Andina UYU
• El Alto International LPB

The Salar and the southern lagoons are only reachable on a 2 to 4 day 4x4 tour from Uyuni or Tupiza, so pick a reputable agency over the cheapest. Overnight buses and a slow train link Uyuni to La Paz and the rest of Bolivia.

Book a 3-day 4x4 loop with a trusted Uyuni agency, not the cheapest, the altitude and remoteness leave no margin. Time the flats for sunrise or sunset when the salt glows pink, and in the wet months chase the mirror after a fresh rain, when the sky doubles underfoot.

Best in Winter

Winter: bone-dry and intensely sunny by day around 10 to 15C, with nights far below freezing at altitude.

• serious warm layers for sub-zero nights
• glacier sunglasses for the salt glare
• high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
• a warm hat and gloves
• a refillable water bottle