We did this as part of an organised tour with tour lago chungara, who seem to be aligned with Mayuru tours. The notes said we might be the only ones to explore this amazing landscape, and indeed we were for most of the time. Due to the rain the day before, even the lithium extraction was on hold, or at least not shipped away which is in an area you cannot visit). We had 2 small walks along the salt lake, saw a decent number of flamingos (not in their hundreds), saw some even fly, and thus in their full glory. Furthermore we saw also vicuñas roaming about. Not that the latter are hard to spot in this part of the altiplano. Nearby we also saw rhea birds with their many chicks. And all this is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. If you have time, also visit the natural Polloquere hotspring. We did not go in the water, and there are no facilities to change, just enjoyed the amazing landscape and colours from the mineral deposits in the water and just outside. Great place for a pick nick.

The drive to the salt flat is stunning. Various colours, changes in topography, lots of animals, saw the well hidden vizcacha which looks like a chinchilla and rabbit ears cross, flamingos. Stunning view of the salad de surfer with a mountain back drop. We also drove to a geothermal pool for a swim and the water was very hot! Great experience!