The best traffic-free bike rides around Salar

There are over 20 no-traffic road cycling routes around Salar, offering a variety of experiences for racebike enthusiasts. These routes range from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The terrain in Salar is predominantly the vast, flat expanse of the salt flats, offering very little elevation change. While much of the surface is firm, hard-packed salt, cyclists should be prepared for varying conditions, including sandy sections and areas with rougher salt structures. The surreal, bleached white canvas creates an illusion of infinity, making for a unique cycling experience.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Salar are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example of a challenging circular route is the Tajos de los Bermejales Loop, covering nearly 57 km with significant elevation gain.

While the vast salt flats themselves are the primary landmark, offering surreal, otherworldly views, you can also find interesting points of interest nearby. For instance, the On monte, on descend et on recommence viewpoint offers panoramic vistas. Other attractions in the broader region include the Periquete Cross and the Old Mill Ruins and Creek Path in Riofrío.

While the region offers many moderate to difficult routes, the minimal elevation change across the vast salt flats can make for an accessible experience for beginners, provided they are prepared for the remote conditions. Routes like the Tower of Huétor-Tájar – Fuente de la Mora loop from Comarca de Loja are rated as moderate and cover around 42 km with manageable elevation.

Salar is located on the Bolivian Altiplano at an altitude of around 3,656 meters (11,995 ft). This high-altitude isolation means you should be prepared for thinner air and potential altitude sickness. Acclimatization is recommended, and carrying plenty of water and sun protection is essential due to the intense sun reflection off the salt surface.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible sense of freedom, the surreal and otherworldly landscapes, and the unique experience of cycling across the vast, traffic-free salt flats. The feeling of cycling in an 'illusion of infinity' is frequently highlighted.

Yes, Salar offers several longer routes for experienced cyclists. For example, the Montefrío – View of Olive Groves loop from Loja is a challenging route spanning over 137 km with significant elevation gain, providing an extensive no-traffic road cycling adventure.

Due to the remote and isolated nature of the Salar region, amenities like cafes and dedicated accommodation directly along the no-traffic cycling routes are extremely limited. Cyclists should plan to be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary supplies, food, and water. Accommodation and services are primarily found in towns like Uyuni, which serves as a gateway to the salt flats.

Given the remote, high-altitude environment, preparation is key. Essential items include plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, high SPF sunscreen), and layers of clothing for varying temperatures. A GPS device and compass are highly recommended due to the lack of landmarks and potential for disorientation. Protecting your bike from salt corrosion is also important.

While the firm, hard-packed salt can be excellent for road bikes, cyclists should be aware that the surface quality can vary. Some sections may have rougher salt formations or sandy patches, which can be challenging for narrow road bike tires. The intense sun reflection can also be blinding, requiring good quality sunglasses.