1map logoGo to main page

Calama, Antofagasta to Uyuni, Potosi Region from $16: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Calama, Chile
to
Uyuni, Bolivia

How to Get from Calama to Uyuni: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$16 by busBest price
312 kmDistance
5h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Calama to Uyuni with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$243-246
Recommended
Company
Trans Salvador, Cruz del Norte
Bus
Average Duration
10h 
Estimated price
$16-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 312 km
Duration: 5h 33m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
8h  19m
Estimated price
$50-75
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Calama to Uyuni

The journey from Calama, Chile’s arid desert landscape, to Uyuni, Bolivia’s breathtaking salt flats, offers a striking contrast in experiences that will make your trip truly memorable.

Best Neighbourhoods in Uyuni

Uyuni boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique charms for visitors.

Downtown Uyuni
• Central hub for shops and restaurants.
• Close proximity to the train station.
Colchani
• Famous for salt hotel experiences.
• Traditional handicrafts available from local artisans.
Jirira
• Gateway to the stunning salt flats.
• Peaceful atmosphere with stunning scenery.

Best Times To Visit Uyuni's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times can enhance your Uyuni experience.

Salar de Uyuni
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer crowds.
Train Cemetery
Weekdays are quieter, offering a better photo opportunity with less traffic.
Laguna Colorada
Travel during the shoulder season to enjoy vibrant colors and fewer tourists.

Uyuni Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Uyuni experiences a cold desert climate, with significant temperature variations between day and night. Dry season from May to October offers the best conditions for exploration, while weather can influence visibility and access to attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Uyuni

In Uyuni, don’t miss trying llama steak at the cozy restaurant, Minuteman Revolutionary Pizza, where the flavors of local ingredients shine through. This culinary experience contrasts with Calama’s more traditional Chilean fare, offering a unique atmosphere that invites you to savor the rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste of Bolivian cuisine.

Calama - Uyuni operators

Explore transport companies operating between Calama and Uyuni, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+56 98 255 5550
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$6-6
Contact phone
+56 9 7897 8715
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$4-4
Website
cordilleratraveller.com

Bus from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$2430-2430
Contact phone
+56 58 222 8547
Website
trans-salvador.com

Bus from Calama Bus Station to Uyuni Bus Station

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$2431-45
Contact phone
+56 (9) 82248119

Bus from Calama - Granaderos to Uyuní

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0

Calama to Uyuni: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Calama and Uyuni offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an adventurous road trip from Calama to Uyuni spanning 253 miles of scenic terrain. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring at your own pace for approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes. 💸 Experience the budget-friendly options available to journey from Calama to Uyuni by car, with prices ranging from $50 to $75. Get ready to witness diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to surreal salt flats along the way.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚌 The direct bus from Calama to Uyuni departs once daily from Calama Bus Station and arrives at Uyuni Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 10 hours. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Uyuni and Calama range from $16 to $35, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those exploring the stunning landscapes of the Andean region.
Departure Point
Calama station
Arrival Point
Uyuni station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Calama to Uyuni.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Calama and Uyuni is approximately 194 miles. By bus and then a tour, it takes around 5 hours and 34 minutes to travel from Calama to Uyuni. Alternatively, if you prefer to rent a car, the travel time from Uyuni to Calama is approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes. Lastly, by bus alone, it takes around 10 hours to reach Uyuni from Calama.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Calama to Uyuni is by bus. It costs $16-$35 and takes around 10 hours. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the fastest option is to take a combination of bus and tour, which takes approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes but costs between $242 and $247. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a bus ticket between Calama and Uyuni can vary. On average, the cost for a bus ticket is between $16 to $35. It's important to check with different bus companies for the most accurate price and to also consider the level of comfort and amenities provided. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on the time of year and availability, so it's recommended to book in advance if possible.
To travel from Calama to Uyuni without using public transportation, you can opt to rent a car and drive the approximately 253-mile distance. The drive takes around 8 hours and 20 minutes. Rental prices for cars vary but usually range from $50 to $75. This option would provide flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace while enjoying the scenic route between the two destinations.
To travel from Calama to Uyuni without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then a tour. This journey takes approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes and costs around $242 to $247. The bus will take you to the border, where you will then transfer to a tour that will take you to Uyuni. This method of travel is convenient and allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Calama and Uyuni. The bus service, operated by Frontera del Norte, departs once daily from Calama and arrives at Uyuni Avenida Bolivar. The journey takes approximately 10 hours.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Uyuni with over 38 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $12 per night. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly accommodations or luxurious resorts, there are suitable options available to cater to your needs.