9 Amazing Facts About Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni That Will Blow Your Mind (And #6 Even Surprises Locals!)

2. A Natural Mirror Effect

Usually from December to April, the rainy season converts the salt flat into the biggest natural mirror in the world by a meagre coating of water. Usually just a few centimetres, a tiny amount of water covers the salt crust to produce a beautiful mirror of the sky above this amazing phenomena. The result is so strong that it is difficult to tell where the earth ends and the sky starts, producing what photographers term as the "infinity effect." One of the most photographed natural events in South America, this mirror-like surface brilliantly reflects the clouds, sun, and stars. NASA uses photographs of this natural mirror to calibrate satellites and confirm data from space observations as the reflecting is so flawless.

Scientists investigating light behaviour and atmospheric events have been drawn to this natural mirror's special optical characteristics, which has produced innovative studies in environmental science and climate studies. The mirror effect produces amazing displays of colour between sunrise and sunset, with the hues of the sky exactly reflected on the water's surface to provide an otherworldly scene that draws photographers and painters from all around the world. In the local ecology, the mirror effect is also quite important since it offers migrating birds necessary resting places and generates temporary microhabitats for different species suited for this particular surroundings. Local tour companies have created specialised photography excursions during these times, therefore boosting the tourism industry of the area and teaching guests about the fragile equilibrium of this natural beauty.