Hotel Jardines de Uyuni

Hotel Jardines de Uyuni is a mid-range hotel in the town of Uyuni, the small desert town that serves as the gateway to the Salar. Expedia lists it with a 3.5-star rating and it is among the better-known options in town. Staying in Uyuni rather than at the salt flat edge puts you close to tour agencies, restaurants and the departure points for the day and multi-day trips, and the hotel is a comfortable, practical choice before a long jeep journey or after returning from the desert.

Location and getting around: Uyuni is small, flat and walkable, with the train cemetery a short taxi ride away and the Salar about half an hour by 4x4. Most tour companies pick up guests from their hotel, and in a town this size that is easy. Flights from La Paz arrive at the Uyuni airport, a short drive from town, and buses from La Paz, Potosi and Sucre arrive at the terminal. Nights are cold, so check that your room has heating and ask about hot water.

The rooms and the practicalities: expect a hotel with comfortable rooms and garden touches suggested by the name, but facilities change, so confirm breakfast, heating and parking. Ask about luggage storage if you are leaving for a multi-day trip, since you will not want to take a large bag in the jeep. Internet can be slow in this remote area, so download maps and tickets in advance.

Who it suits: travelers who want a better bed than the budget hostels before or after a salt flat tour, couples, small groups and families. It is not a destination in itself, and it is less atmospheric than a salt hotel such as Palacio de Sal. A good way to use it is as a base for the night before your tour, then a night at a salt hotel for the sunset and sunrise. In the dry season from May to October and in the Christmas period, book ahead, and in the wet months, check road and flight conditions before arriving. Since cash is useful in Uyuni, bring bolivianos, as card acceptance is limited in some places.