Question 1

What is the "Unsafe Salt Flat Jeep Tour Operators" scam in Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

Some Uyuni tour operators run underfunded or poorly maintained jeep tours across the Salar de Uyuni and surrounding altiplano at elevations above 4,000 metres. Vehicles with mechanical faults, inadequate cold-weather gear for overnight stops, insufficient food and water, and unqualified drivers are documented hazards. Accidents, breakdowns stranding tourists in remote areas, and altitude sickness emergencies without medical support have all been reported. Research operators thoroughly before booking — read recent reviews on TripAdvisor and travel forums. Choose an established agency with a physical office in Uyuni, a written itinerary, and clearly named vehicle and driver. Avoid the cheapest tours available and verify that cold-weather sleeping gear is included for multi-day trips. Ask specifically about the vehicle's maintenance history.

Question 2

What is the "Unofficial Guide Approaches at Train Cemetery" scam in Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

The Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes), 3km from Uyuni centre, attracts unofficial guides who approach tourists on foot or cycling to the site. They offer their services as guides for a fee, then demand a larger payment at the end than agreed, or claim the site entrance requires a ticket they can procure. The site has no entrance fee and requires no guide. The Train Cemetery is free to enter independently and has no admission fee. Decline all guide offers from individuals who approach you on the road to the site. If you want a guide, arrange one through your hotel or a licensed agency in town.

Tour & Activity Scams in Uyuni

Unsafe Salt Flat Jeep Tour Operators

Unofficial Guide Approaches at Train Cemetery

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