The Enigmatic Train Cemetery of Uyuni
Explore the haunting beauty of Uyuni's Train Cemetery, an open-air museum filled with rusted relics of Bolivia's railway history.
Nestled just outside the town of Uyuni, the Train Cemetery is an open-air museum that serves as a poignant reminder of Bolivia's rich industrial history. This unique location is home to a collection of abandoned steam locomotives and railway cars, which were once vital to the region's economy and transportation. The sight of these rusting giants against the backdrop of the expansive Andean landscape is both haunting and beautiful, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors can wander freely among the trains, exploring the intricate details and remnants of a bygone era. The vast expanse of the cemetery, dotted with these majestic, decaying machines, presents a dreamlike quality that captivates the imagination. The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the trains, creating a spectacular visual experience. As you stroll through this eerie yet enchanting site, you can almost hear the echoes of the past reverberating through the rusting metal. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture this surreal landscape, which has become one of Bolivia's iconic attractions. The Train Cemetery is not just a collection of old trains; it is a testament to the passage of time and the stories that these machines could tell, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling through Uyuni.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground can be uneven and dusty.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history of the trains.
- Check the weather beforehand; the area can be quite windy and chilly, especially in the evening.
A brief summary to Train Cemetery
- G596+9R2, Uyuni, BO
Getting There
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Walking
From the main plaza in Uyuni (Plaza Principal), head south on Avenida 6 de Octubre. Walk straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Calle Sucre. Turn left onto Calle Sucre and continue walking for another 15 minutes. You will pass various local shops and eateries. After this, take a right onto Avenida Ferroviaria and continue walking for about 5 minutes. You will see the Train Cemetery on your left. The cemetery is marked by several old trains and is a popular photo spot.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops near the Plaza Principal. Start by heading south on Avenida 6 de Octubre for about 10 minutes. At the intersection with Calle Sucre, turn left and cycle for another 15 minutes. Continue straight until you reach Avenida Ferroviaria, then turn right and cycle for an additional 5 minutes. The Train Cemetery will be on your left. Make sure to wear a helmet and stay cautious of the traffic.
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Tourist Taxi
Locate a taxi from the Plaza Principal or ask your hotel to arrange one. In the taxi, tell the driver you want to go to the Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes). The ride should take around 10 minutes. The driver will take you along Avenida 6 de Octubre, then onto Calle Sucre and finally to Avenida Ferroviaria. You'll arrive directly at the entrance of the Train Cemetery, which is a well-known destination.
Attractions Nearby to Train Cemetery
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Museo Histórico de Uyuni
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Uyuni Bolivia.
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DISCOVERY.COLORED LAGOONS - Uyuni
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Pakuchi
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Reloj Central
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Plaza de Aniceto Arce
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Monumento al Rally Dakar
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Salt Flats Bolivia
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Salar de uyuni
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SKYLINE TRAVELLER UYUNI (Salt flats tours Uyuni)
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Museo de Trenes
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Empresa turística "Parina de Sal"
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UYUNI Park
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Salt Flats
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Pulacayo, Industrial Heritage Site
