Hotel Luna Salada, Uyuni

Location

As the world’s largest salt flat at near 11,000 square kilometres, Salar de Uyuni is a spectacle to behold. Part desert part prehistoric lake, its cracked white stretches all the way to the horizon – interrupted only by strange islands – to meet the omnipresent Andes. And Luna Salada enjoys an enviable position, perched atop a small hill on the desert’s eastern ‘shores’, just a short drive from its gateway town, Uyuni, and its airport. It’s the only salt hotel with an elevated setting, meaning unrivalled views.

Accommodation

While there’s a collection of salt hotels in Uyuni, this has the best rooms. All are built entirely from blocks of salt with Standard Rooms featuring crusted salt floors – be sure to watch your feet. Bed throws and goose down pillow accents add splashes of colour to interiors that favour rustic chic over brash intricacies. And, standing at over 12,000 feet above sea level, you’ll make use of thermal sheets, electric blankets and individual heating controls. Be sure to book into a room with a view of the salt lake or upgrade to a Deluxe Room for more comfortable wood laminate flooring and panoramas that stretch to Salar Volcano and Kozuna Mountain.

Dining

At Tunupa – often touted as the best restaurant in Uyuni – you’ll be treated to authentic Bolivian flavours in menus that change frequently, driven by seasonal produce. Ingredients are sourced from local markets wherever possible. Start with a quinoa dish where Bolivia’s favourite grain can be dressed with fine cuts of meat, fish or fresh vegetables. You’ll also be treated to plenty of Bolivian soups, the hearty end to any day’s hike. Drink in the hotel’s signature salt pan views with a vintage from its wine cellar that draws from across the Andes.

Facilities

Luna Salada’s centrepiece amenity is its spa where Deluxe reservations are treated to Jacuzzis and saunas while massages, treatments and therapies are payable locally. However, the hotel’s true attraction is its setting. Between 4WD excursions, bike rentals and nature hikes, you’ll explore volcanoes, lagoons filled with flamingos, giant cactus ‘islands’, dramatic caves and, yes, the Uyuni Salt Flats. Back at base, you’ll also have use of the WiFi to stay connected in such a remote location.