This Stark white expanse of lithium dreams, located on the Altiplano of Bolivia, stretches across an area of about 10,600 hectares (26,000 acres), at an altitude of about 3,650 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and is formed naturally. It is the world's largest and highest salt pan. During the rainy season a thin sheet of water on the outer layer of the salt pads – transforms the salt flats into the world’s largest natural mirror. The Landscape reflects the sky like a mirror. A surreal realm of wonder!
The two islands in the middle of these salt flats are: Isla Incahuasi and Isla del Pescado.
Salar de Uyuni attracts, geologists, paleontologists, poets, writers, biologists, Tollywood, Bollywood, Hollywood and niche groups who for one reason or the other, keep returning back. It contains 50% to 70% of the world's known lithium reserves.
The large natural mirror with amazing reflectiveness, clear sky, lack of industries, make the Salar an ideal centre for Satellite calibration. It is the hub for racing enthusiasts. The famous Dakar Rally known across the world is held every year.
Despite the impalpable weather and minimalist environs, thousands of tourists are seen flocking every year. Given the tempestuous climate with its location at an high altitude, Salar de Uyuni has one of the harshest environments on the planet not only for humans but for vehicles too, which means there can be unavoidable issues with the vehicles occasionally. But not to worry! The drivers of these cars are expert, well experienced and are used to breakdowns, so if problems arise there’s no need to panic, as the driver manages to find the solution even in this vast expanse. It is very rare that you are stuck for long as there are always other cars around that are willing to help each other out. So sit back and enjoy some of the most beautiful surroundings this planet has to offer.
I wonder how did this miss out on being nominated for one of the seven natural wonders of the world! May be this will be the 8th Natural Wonder of the World - if I were to update the list :)
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