The endless white sheet of the Uyuni salt flats can be mistaken for the horizon far away. When covered by a thin layer of water, the salt flats reflect the clouds, specially between January and March, during the rainy season.
The Uyuni salt flats contain the world's largest lithium reserve, with 50% to 70% of the global reserves, as well as significant amounts of potassium, boron and magnesium. The traditional method to extract salt consists of making small piles so that water can evaporate, thus facilitating transport.
Surrounded by mountains, the thin layer of water that covers part of the surface provides a beautiful reflection of the clouds and peaks, and even mirages may form, just like in any other desert.
The Uyuni salt flats are one of the main tourist destinations in Bolivia, with some 60,000 visitors every year. The best time to visit them is November, when they become a breeding site for the three species of elegant flamingos that live in many ponds in the area.