The Cementerio de Trenes sits a few kilometers outside the town of Uyuni, at the start of the old railway line toward Chile. Here, abandoned locomotives, carriages and wagons stand in the desert wind, rusted and covered in graffiti. They date from the era when Uyuni was an important railway junction for the mining industry, and the collapse of mineral exports left the trains to the elements. Today it is a photo stop at the start or end of most salt flat tours, and visitors are allowed to climb on and around the wrecks. The wind, the stark sky and the rusting metal create a surreal setting.
How to visit: most Salar de Uyuni tours stop here early in the day, usually for around thirty minutes. If you are independent, you can walk or take a short taxi from Uyuni, and then the cemetery can be seen at sunrise or sunset without the tour crowds. Entry is free or nominal, and there is a small area with souvenir stalls and snacks. The area is open and exposed, so bring layers, sunglasses and a hat.
Safety and respect: the metal is old and sharp, with rusted edges, loose parts and sometimes broken glass, so wear sturdy shoes and be careful climbing. Do not take parts from the trains, and avoid climbing on obviously unstable structures. In the wind, avoid walking under hanging pieces. Do not leave rubbish. Children can enjoy the climbing but should be supervised.
Why it matters: the cemetery offers a sense of the railway history behind Uyuni, a town that existed because of the tracks and the trade. Combine the visit with a day tour of the Salar or with the three-day lagoons trip, and take an hour in the town for a meal at the end. Opening conditions can change, so check locally. In November the days are sunny and cool nights are common, so late afternoon light is excellent for photographers.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided wander around abandoned steam locomotives and wagons, often as the first stop of a salt flat tour.
Best time
Sunrise or late afternoon for soft light and fewer groups.
How long
Thirty to sixty minutes.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, avoid unstable metal, bring layers for the wind and keep a hand on hats and cameras.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and railway fans.
- Families
- Fun for older children if supervised closely around sharp metal.
- Couples
- A quirky sunrise or sunset photo stop.
- Pair with
- The Salar de Uyuni day tour and a night in Uyuni town.
- Time needed
- Up to an hour.
Good questions
Where is the Uyuni train cemetery?+
It is on the edge of Uyuni town, near the old railway line. It is a short taxi ride from the center.
Is there an entry fee?+
It is generally free to visit, with a small area of stalls nearby. Check locally in case anything has changed.
Is it included in tours?+
Most salt flat tours stop here for a short visit. Check your itinerary if you want more time.
Is it safe to climb on the trains?+
Visitors do climb, but the metal is old and sharp. Be careful and avoid unstable structures.
When is the best time to go?+
Early morning or late afternoon gives better light and fewer groups. The wind can be strong at any time.
