Laguna Verde, Uyuni

Advantages: The unforgettable scenery and untouched beauty
Disadvantages: Lack of hygine, cold and uncomfortable

...on the previous day had meant a slight change in our route as originally the plan was to head further south to Laguna Verde. So it was that just three of us decided to get up early to make a southerly trip to the thermal pools and geysers of Sol de Manana and the nearby hot springs. Having taken in the famous thermal pools in Rotorua in New Zealand I was not expecting too much, but where they are commercialised and inhabited, these were untouched and isolated. The bubbling mud pools and sulphury steam that drifted across the martian landscape made a fantastic sight. Impressive though this was it was easily surpassed by the hot springs, at around bath temperature; and stunningly crystal clear water, it was a moment to savour. Sitting in a dreamlike landscape will definitely remain one of the highlights of my year travelling, relaxed and warm... Read review

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Advantages: the views, the sheer size and the wind and colours!
Disadvantages: maybe not on your planned route but if that's the case i suggest you change it!

...I visited the Salar De Uyuni in November of 1999 with 5 other travellers from the UK. We took a 5-day tour costing 50 dollars a day (it's best to think in US currency when in South America with the exception of French Guyana). The best place to take a tour from is the town Uyuni which can be reached from La Paz direct by plane or by bus. We arrived there from Cochabamba by bus. Our tour was by 4x4 jeep (absolutely necessary because there are often no roads). For this reason it is also highly advisable to take a guide. Our guide was a very cool-looking character who NEVER took his glasses off, hence w named him “Mr.Chips” after the 70’s US TV show with the two motorcyclist cops. The Salar de Uyuni for those of you who don’t know is a vast expanse of salt at very high altitude (about 4000m). What happened was millions of years ago... Read review

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Advantages: Sun, sea, and friendly atmosphere
Disadvantages: Expensive

...The Cape Verde Islands are a group of islands off the west coast of Africa, in line with The Gambia. Sal is the largest of the islands. The Cape Verde Islands are an up and coming tourist destination, due to the fantastic weather and coastal amenities. Sal has recently accuired an International Airport, which has opened up the island more. Connection flights can be made to the other islands, with flight times varying from 10-90 minutes. There are several restaurants in Sal, providing a variety of local cuisine, such as seafood and meats. However, as a vegetarian, i found little to eat. I survived on Tomato Sauce and spagetti all week! The food is reasonably priced and the drinks are fairly cheap. A disadvantage of taking a holiday to the Cape Verde islands is that a Visa is required. Visa's cost around ₤50 per person, which can... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful