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Island · Uyuni, Potosí
Isla Incahuasi
Rocky hill in the middle of the salar, about 80 km from Colchani, covered with giant cacti several meters high, with a trail to the top and views of the white salt flat stretching to the horizon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Isla Incahuasi
Isla Incahuasi is located in the center of the Salar de Uyuni, about 80 km from Colchani. It is not an island in the sea but the top of an ancient volcano that remained above the waters of the prehistoric lake and today rises above the salt. The rocks contain remnants of fossilized corals and algae, traces of the time when the region was covered by water.
The island is covered with giant cacti, some several meters tall and growing very slowly—about one centimeter per year—which means many are hundreds of years old. The name Incahuasi means house of the Inca in Quechua.
A stone trail climbs to the top of the island among the cacti in about 30 to 45 minutes round trip. From the summit, the view opens over the salar in all directions, with volcanoes on the horizon, such as Tunupa to the north. At the base there is a visitor center, toilets and tables where agencies serve lunch.
The island charges an entrance fee administered by the community. In the rainy season, when the salar floods, vehicles cannot always reach it: the itinerary may change.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 1½ hours, including the trail up and lunch.
Best time
In the dry season, from April to December, when vehicles can reach it easily. Around midday the light is strong; late morning and early afternoon are the usual times for tours.
How to get there
It's about 80 km from Colchani, out on the salt, a 1½ to 2-hour 4x4 drive. You can only get there with agency tours, which typically include the island on a day itinerary.
Tip
Climb the trail slowly—it's at about 3,700 meters—and bring water. Check with your agency whether the island is included in the itinerary during the rainy season.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Isla Incahuasi
Why are there cacti in the middle of the salt?
Isla Incahuasi is made of rock—the top of an ancient volcano—where the cacti grow. They grow about one centimeter per year, and the largest are hundreds of years old.
Is Isla Incahuasi always on the itinerary?
In the dry season, generally yes. In the rainy season, when the salar is flooded, vehicles do not always reach it.
Is the hike long?
It takes about 30 to 45 minutes round trip, with stone steps. At altitude, go slowly.