It is considered to be the biggest salt lake in the world.

Though much of the Altiplano is hidden beneath dust, the region' s distinctive salt pans are visible.

Salt-loving bacteria from Death Valley and Saline Valley, Calif., however, were just getting their proverbial second wind then, since the very same bacteria still thrives today.

Nearby river valleys, flood plains, and salt lakes appear in tones of beige and brown.

Blindingly white and dizzyingly high, this vast salt flat near the crest of the Andes could easily be mistaken for a Salvador Dali painting.