Cementerio de Trenes | Uyuni

The Cementerio de Trenes (Train Graveyard) is a fascinating and eerie site located in the town of Colchani, near Uyuni in southern Bolivia. This site is home to a collection of abandoned trains and is one of the most unique and atmospheric attractions in the region. It has become an iconic landmark and a must-see for visitors exploring the Salar de Uyuni and the surrounding areas.

History of the Cementerio de Trenes

The Cementerio de Trenes is a reflection of the decline of Bolivia’s railways. In the early 20th century, trains were a vital part of transportation in Bolivia, especially in connecting the highlands to the coastal areas. The trains were also important for transporting minerals such as salt and silver from the high-altitude mining regions to ports in neighboring countries like Chile.

However, as Bolivia's rail system aged and suffered from neglect and economic challenges, it gradually lost its significance. The trains at the Cementerio de Trenes were eventually abandoned, many due to economic reasons and the lack of maintenance for the railway infrastructure. The trains here date back to the mid-20th century, and over time, they have fallen into disrepair.

The Site and Its Atmosphere

The Cementerio de Trenes consists of a vast open-air area with rows of rusted and derelict trains. These trains are scattered across the desert-like landscape, their decaying frames, broken windows, and corroded exteriors standing as eerie monuments to a once-thriving railway system. Some of the trains are in fairly good condition, while others have become heavily weathered by the harsh wind, sun, and salt exposure in the surrounding altiplano.

Many of the trains are from the early 20th century and were originally steam-powered. Over the years, they have become covered in layers of rust and salt, giving the site an otherworldly and post-apocalyptic feel. The site is popular for photography, as the trains, with their distinctive shapes and aged features, offer a unique subject against the barren backdrop of the Bolivian desert.

The site is also known for its remains of old locomotives, freight cars, and passenger trains, many of which are heavily oxidized and in various stages of disintegration. Some of the trains are stripped of parts, adding to the ghostly feel of the site.

Visitors and Attractions

The Cementerio de Trenes has become a popular tourist attraction, especially for those visiting Salar de Uyuni and the nearby areas. Many people stop at the site to take photographs of the trains set against the dramatic desert landscape. The location is also a fascinating place for history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the industrial past of Bolivia.

While visiting the site, travelers can often:

• Climb on and explore the trains: Some of the trains are accessible, allowing visitors to climb onto the rusted carriages, explore their interiors, and imagine the trains in their prime.
• Take unique photos: The juxtaposition of the trains against the stark desert environment makes for incredible and surreal photographs. The trains, particularly during sunset or sunrise, provide a striking contrast with the vast open skies.
• Learn about the region's history: The Cementerio de Trenes stands as a symbol of Bolivia's economic struggles in the mid-20th century and the eventual decline of its railway system. The site is a reminder of the challenges faced by the country's infrastructure and economy.

Location and Access

The Cementerio de Trenes is located just 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from Colchani, which is near the famous Salar de Uyuni. Visitors traveling to the salt flats will typically pass by this site, making it an easy stop along the way. The site is easily accessible by car or as part of tour packages that include a tour of Salar de Uyuni and the surrounding region.

Given its proximity to the salt flats, it is common for travelers to visit the Cementerio de Trenes during their journey to the Uyuni Salt Flats, and it’s typically combined with other tours of the area. Some tours might even offer a stop at the graveyard before heading out to the salt flats.

Conclusion

The Cementerio de Trenes in Bolivia is a hauntingly beautiful site that offers a unique glimpse into the country's past. The collection of abandoned trains in the desert landscape creates an unforgettable image, and it serves as both a historical monument and an atmospheric destination for photography and exploration. For those visiting Salar de Uyuni or the Eduardo Avaroa National Wildlife Reserve, the Cementerio de Trenes is an essential and intriguing stop, offering a contrast to the natural wonders of the region with its industrial history and ghostly atmosphere.