The Enigmatic Train Cemetery of Uyuni
Discover the haunting beauty of the Train Cemetery in Uyuni, Bolivia, an open-air museum filled with rusted relics of a forgotten railway era.
The Train Cemetery, or Cementerio de Trenes, is an extraordinary open-air museum located on the outskirts of Uyuni, Bolivia. This unique site showcases a collection of abandoned trains that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, remnants of a once-thriving railway network that connected Bolivia with neighboring countries like Chile. Today, these rusted giants serve as a poignant reminder of the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the industrial history of the region. As you wander through the sprawling expanse of the cemetery, you'll find an array of decaying locomotives and carriages, each with its own story to tell. Photographers are particularly drawn to this location, as the juxtaposition of the weathered trains against the stark, arid landscape creates a surreal and hauntingly beautiful scene. The high-altitude sun casts dramatic shadows, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of this ghostly place. Visitors can explore the area freely, climbing onto the trains for unique photo opportunities or simply soaking in the atmosphere. While the Train Cemetery is an outdoor attraction and requires no admission fee, it is advisable to wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Additionally, visiting during sunrise or sunset provides a magical experience, with colors that transform the landscape into a painter's palette. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone looking to experience the beauty of Bolivia, the Train Cemetery is an unforgettable stop on your journey.
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking lighting and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven and dusty.
- Bring a camera; the unique landscape provides excellent photo opportunities.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the trains.
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
Getting There
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Walking
From the main square in Uyuni (Plaza 10 de Noviembre), head south on Avenida Ferroviaria. Walk straight for about 10-15 minutes until you reach the intersection with Calle 6 de Octubre. Turn left onto Calle 6 de Octubre and continue walking for another 5 minutes. You will see the Train Cemetery on your right-hand side at the location G596+9R2.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local shops near Plaza 10 de Noviembre. Start from the plaza and cycle south on Avenida Ferroviaria for about 10 minutes. Turn left onto Calle 6 de Octubre and continue for another 5 minutes. The Train Cemetery will be on your right. This route is flat and easy to navigate.
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Taxi
To get a taxi in Uyuni, you can either hail one from the street or ask your hotel for assistance. Provide the driver with the destination: Train Cemetery, located at G596+9R2. The ride should take around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, and it’s a straightforward route from the city center.
