Sunset and Star Gazing at Train Cemetery in Uyuni (2024)

Many years ago, my friend and I traveled to Bolivia to see the salt lakes at Salar de Uyuni. But we also ended up visiting the train cemetery, an exciting place for sure. Train Cemetery in Uyuni is a rusted cemetery of abandoned trains and one of Bolivia’s fantastic tourist attractions.

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About The Train Cemetery in Uyuni

Uyuni is a Bolivian city that is the gateway to the world’s most extensive salt flats. It is also home to the most significant antique train cemetery, known as the Great Train Graveyard or Cemeterio de Trenes in Spanish. The rustic texture of the trains provides a captivating backdrop, creating a unique setting to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and indulge in stargazing.

In the 1940s, as the mining industry in Uyuni faced a decline, the entire area became abandoned. The region was subsequently repurposed, becoming a site where steam trains were discarded and scattered. These trains, dating back to the 20th century, were imported from Britain. With over 100 train cars to explore, the train cemetery is located approximately 3 kilometers from the city on its outskirts.

Train cemeteries exist when trains considered too challenging to move or operate are abandoned in a specific location.

How to Get to Uyuni from La Paz?

• The most efficient and rapid means to reach Uyuni is by air. The flight from La Paz to Uyuni typically takes around one hour, and Bolivian de Aviacion is recommended.
• Alternatively, there are buses connecting La Paz and Uyuni, with a travel time of approximately 8 hours. Opting for an overnight bus is advisable, allowing you to arrive in Uyuni in the morning. Bus tickets can be conveniently booked through the Tickets Bolivia website.

Note: Bolivia is situated at an elevation of 3,656 meters, and it is crucial to acclimatize to this altitude before exerting oneself. Failure to acclimatize correctly can pose serious risks, including fatal consequences.

How to Get to Train Cemetery in Uyuni?

The train cemetery in Uyuni is approximately 3 kilometers from Uyuni city and a quick 10-minute walk. Visiting the train cemetery can be quickly done without a tour agency, as there is no entrance fee, and the distance from the city is not significant.

Given its popularity, be prepared for a considerable crowd at the train cemetery. For a more serene experience, visiting either early in the morning or during sunset when fewer people are present is recommended.

Train Cemetery in Uyuni Tour Details

While exploring the train cemetery independently as possible, I opted for a guided tour from Uyuni City. The tour package covered transportation from my hotel, including wine, accounted for national park fees and provided a local guide.

• Provider: Plan your trip. Unfortunately, they do not have a website.
• Cost: AUD 26.84 per person.
• I booked the tour on the Viator website.

Gallery

Sunset and Star gazing at Train Cemetery in Uyuni

The train cemetery offers a perfect vantage point for witnessing a spectacular sunset. The sky comes alive, and the sun stages an incredible show. Given the absence of light pollution, it is also an ideal spot for stargazing, making it great for capturing stunning astro shots.

Is Train Cemetery in Uyuni Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

While Uyuni is generally safe, exercising caution is advisable for solo travelers, especially in the isolated and potentially eerie atmosphere, particularly at night.

Closing Notes

I fell in love with this place. The sunsets provide a stunning backdrop, creating the perfect setting for extraordinary photographs. I had the pleasure of visiting this enchanting spot twice during my time in Uyuni and wish for more moments there. If you are in Bolivia, don’t miss out on this picturesque location. I highly recommend it.

Have you had the chance to explore the train cemetery in Uyuni? Feel free to share your experiences by reaching out to me at Solopassport@gmail.com.