Train Cemetery, Potosi Highlands Travel Guide

4.2 (2818)

Discover the haunting beauty of the Train Cemetery in Uyuni, a unique open-air museum showcasing Bolivia's rich railway history amidst stunning landscapes.

The Train Cemetery in Uyuni is a hauntingly beautiful open-air museum showcasing abandoned locomotives and railway cars, set against the backdrop of Bolivia's stunning landscapes. This unique location offers a glimpse into the country’s railway history, inviting tourists to wander among rusting giants that evoke a sense of nostalgia and adventure. Visitors can capture striking photographs, learn about the significance of the railway in Bolivia, and enjoy the surreal scenery that surrounds this fascinating site.

A brief summary to Train Cemetery

G596+9R2, Uyuni, BO

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Train Cemetery.

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground can be uneven and rusty.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the site.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history of the trains and the region.
Respect the site and avoid climbing on the trains to preserve their historical value.

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Explore Train Cemetery on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Train Cemetery, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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.

Discover more about Train Cemetery

The Train Cemetery, or 'Cementerio de Trenes', is a remarkable open-air museum located just outside the town of Uyuni, Bolivia. This eerie yet captivating site features a collection of abandoned trains and locomotives that date back to the early 20th century. Once a bustling hub for the mining industry, these rusting relics now stand as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era. Visitors can stroll among the decaying trains, each telling its own story of adventure, loss, and the relentless passage of time. The cemetery's vast expanse is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the contrast of the metallic structures against the expansive Bolivian sky. The surreal landscapes surrounding the site, including the famous Salar de Uyuni salt flats nearby, enhance the haunting beauty of this unique destination. A visit to the Train Cemetery is not just a trip into Bolivia's history; it offers a moment of reflection amidst the remnants of human ingenuity and the natural landscapes that reclaim them. As you explore this open-air museum, take a moment to embrace the silence and the stories that linger in the air, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the cultural heritage of Bolivia.