Explore the Enigmatic Train Cemetery of Uyuni
Discover the haunting beauty of Uyuni's Train Cemetery, where rusting relics tell stories of a forgotten railway era amid breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Train Cemetery
- G596+9R2, Uyuni, BO
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Train Cemetery in Uyuni, Bolivia, is an iconic open-air museum that attracts travelers with its haunting beauty and historical significance. Once a bustling hub of railway activity, this eerie site is now home to dozens of rusted locomotives and carriages, scattered across the arid landscape. As you wander through this surreal environment, you can climb aboard the relics, capturing unforgettable photographs that tell the story of a bygone era. The stark contrast of the weathered metal against the vast blue sky creates an otherworldly atmosphere that is both captivating and thought-provoking. For history enthusiasts, the Train Cemetery serves as a reminder of the ambitious railway projects that aimed to connect Bolivia with the Pacific coast. Although these dreams were never fully realized, the remnants of the trains serve as tangible links to the past. It’s a place where you can reflect on the challenges faced by the railway industry in this remote region. Visitors often express a sense of nostalgia as they explore the decaying trains, each one telling its own story of adventure and abandonment. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts dramatic shadows over the trains, enhancing the haunting atmosphere. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven, and bring your camera to capture the captivating details of this unique location. The Train Cemetery is not just a museum; it’s an experience that invites you to connect with history and the striking beauty of Bolivia’s landscape.
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and dusty.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique photo opportunities among the trains.
- Consider bringing water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the area.
- Respect the site; avoid vandalizing the trains and follow any posted guidelines.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from the center of Chaco Plain, head towards the main road that leads to Uyuni. Follow Route 30 for approximately 7 kilometers until you reach the turnoff to Uyuni. Continue on this road for about 15 kilometers until you see the sign for Train Cemetery on your left. The coordinates for the Train Cemetery are approximately -20.4816027 latitude and -66.8379728 longitude. Parking is available near the entrance.
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Public Transportation
To reach Train Cemetery using public transportation, locate the local bus terminal in Chaco Plain. Look for buses heading to Uyuni, which run frequently throughout the day. The bus ride typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on road conditions. Once you arrive in Uyuni, take a taxi or a local tour operator's vehicle to the Train Cemetery. This taxi ride should cost around 20-30 BOB (Bolivian Bolivianos), and it will take approximately 10-15 minutes to get there.
Attractions Nearby to Train Cemetery
- Museo Histórico de Uyuni
- Uyuni Bolivia.
- DISCOVERY.COLORED LAGOONS - Uyuni
- Pakuchi
- Reloj Central
- Plaza de Aniceto Arce
- Monumento al Rally Dakar
- Salt Flats Bolivia
- Salar de uyuni
- SKYLINE TRAVELLER UYUNI (Salt flats tours Uyuni)
- Museo de Trenes
- Empresa turística "Parina de Sal"
- UYUNI Park
- Salt Flats
- Pulacayo, Industrial Heritage Site