Uyuni sits at 3,670 metres and the reserve goes above 4,800. Practical advice for acclimatising and enjoying the trip.

Soroche, or altitude sickness, shows up when the body has not had time to adjust to having less oxygen. The commonest symptoms are headache, tiredness and loss of appetite. Rest and water almost always settle it.

• Get to Uyuni a day before the expedition and sleep well.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours.
• Eat light, and accept the coca tea we offer you at the café.
• Walk slowly at the viewpoints: this is not a race.
• If you take preventive medication, talk to your doctor before you travel.

Every one of our vehicles carries a first aid kit, and the driver-guides know the protocol for descending if it comes to that.