12-Day Adventure and Cultural Immersion in Bolivia
Highlights
La Paz, Uyuni, Trinidad
trekking, cultural, sightseeing
Group Tour
12 Days
Medium
English, Spanish
Description
Embark on a 12-day Bolivian adventure blending cultural exploration and natural wonders. Begin in La Paz, exploring its vibrant markets and historic charm, then journey to sacred Lake Titicaca and Sun Island for stunning views and ancient ruins. Conclude with the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats and a rewarding climb up Huayna Potosí, an unforgettable experience of Bolivia’s beauty and culture.
Itinerary
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DAY 1- Exploring the Heart of La Paz
- Arrive at El Alto International Airport, one of the world’s highest airports at 4,000 metres above sea level, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in La Paz.
- The short journey introduces you to Bolivia’s dramatic altitude and prepares you for the adventures to come in this vibrant, high-altitude city.
- In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of La Paz, immersing yourself in its unique culture.
- Discover bustling markets filled with colourful Andean textiles and artisanal crafts, and admire the harmony of colonial architecture against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
- As the day winds down, enjoy a welcoming dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Bolivian dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of the highlands.
- Afterward, return to your hotel and relax, acclimatising to the altitude and preparing for the exciting days ahead.
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DAY 2 Experience La Paz: Markets, Traditions, and Music
- Dive deeper into the vibrant culture of La Paz, where colonial charm meets indigenous traditions.
- Begin the day with a guided city tour that takes you through the lively streets of the Old City, filled with colourful markets, narrow alleys, and locals dressed in traditional attire.
- These sights offer an authentic glimpse into Bolivia’s cultural heart.
- Explore the mystical Witch Market, where stalls overflow with healing herbs, ritualistic amulets, and offerings used in Andean spiritual practices.
- Visit the Coca Museum to learn about the coca leaf’s deep cultural and historical significance in Andean life. Other highlights include the historic San Francisco Church, the charming colonial Jaén Street, and Murillo Square, the city’s political and cultural centre.
- Travel across the city via the stunning La Paz cable car system, enjoying panoramic views from the Yellow, Silver, Red, and Orange lines.
- Take in breathtaking vistas from the Killi Killi viewpoint and marvel at the unique landscape of Moon Valley, a geological wonder just outside the city.
- In the evening, experience the lively rhythm of La Paz at Canto, a venue where traditional musicians bring the city’s musical heritage to life with reed flutes and drums. Let the melodies carry you away, and perhaps join in a dance, before returning to your hotel for a restful night.
Meals included: breakfast
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DAY 3 Exploring Lake Titicaca and Inca Heritage
- Begin your day with a scenic drive across Bolivia’s stunning Altiplano, heading towards the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca, often regarded as the birthplace of the Inca civilisation.
- Along the journey, marvel at the sweeping views of the Andes, setting the stage for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.
- Your first stop is Tikina, where you’ll board a boat to cross a section of the lake and reach the lakeside town of Copacabana. Explore the town’s iconic 16th-century cathedral, a fascinating structure that harmoniously blends Catholic and indigenous architectural influences, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted cultural heritage.
- From Copacabana, continue your adventure with a boat ride to Isla del Sol, a sacred site central to Inca mythology.
- Wander through the ancient ruins of Pilco Kaín, and climb the Inca Steps at Yumani, which reward you with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
- As the day ends, settle into your guesthouse on Isla del Sol, where the serene atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a restful evening.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
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DAY 4 Sunrise Hike on Isla del Sol and Return to La Paz
- Start your day with an early morning sunrise hike across Isla del Sol, trekking 15 kilometres from the southern village to the northern tip of the island.
- As dawn breaks over Lake Titicaca, the golden light transforms the Andes and the lake’s tranquil waters into a breathtakingly serene landscape. This moderate hike is both invigorating and peaceful, providing a moment to connect with the sacred energy of the island.
- At the northern end of Isla del Sol, board a boat back to Copacabana, where you’ll visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana.
- Built on the site of a former Inca temple, this historic church features magnificent Baroque towers and stands as a spiritual and cultural symbol blending indigenous and Catholic traditions.
- After exploring Copacabana, return to La Paz for a brief rest at your hotel.
- Depending on your travel plans, you’ll either board an overnight bus to Uyuni or stay the night in La Paz for a morning flight to Uyuni, setting the stage for the next leg of your adventure.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
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DAY 5 Exploring the Majestic Salar de Uyuni Landscape
- Start your day in Uyuni after an overnight bus or early morning flight from La Paz. The adventure begins at 10:30 a.m. with a Jeep expedition across the vast Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat.
- As you traverse this surreal landscape, your first stop is the Train Graveyard, a hauntingly beautiful collection of rusting steam engines that tell the story of Bolivia’s industrial past.
- Continue to Colchani Village, where you’ll witness traditional salt production methods and browse exhibitions of crafts and salt products. From here, enter the expansive Salar de Uyuni, visiting key attractions such as the Salt Eyes (Ojos de Sal), the Salt Hotel (now a museum built entirely of salt bricks), and the iconic Flags of the World.
- Take in remarkable sights like the Dakar Monument, Sculpture of the Hand of God, and the intricately crafted Salt Staircase and Pyramid.
- As the day progresses, marvel at the mirror effect created by water on the salt flats during the rainy season—a truly unforgettable visual experience.
- Cap off your adventure with a stunning sunset over the Salar, where the sky’s vibrant colours reflect on the endless salt expanse.
- Afterward, settle in for a relaxing evening and dinner at a local guesthouse near the salt flats, under a canopy of stars in one of the clearest night skies in the world.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
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DAY 6 Exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats and Altiplanic Lagoons
- Set out early at 7:00 a.m. for a full-day adventure exploring the surreal and breathtaking landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flats and surrounding regions. Begin with a visit to the Sol de Mañana Geysers, where high-altitude volcanic activity creates an otherworldly scene of steam and sulphur rising against the morning light.
- Relax in the soothing waters of the Polques Hot Springs, a tranquil oasis in the rugged desert terrain. Continue through the Dali Desert, where the surreal, wind-carved landscapes seem to mirror the dreamlike art of Salvador Dalí.
- Visit the Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca, whose emerald and white waters shimmer at the base of the majestic Licancabur Volcano. Another highlight is Laguna Colorada, known for its striking red waters caused by microorganisms and minerals, and home to flocks of pink flamingos.
- Traverse the Siloli Desert, an arid expanse of sand and rock punctuated by unique geological formations like the famous Stone Tree, sculpted naturally by the wind. The day ends with a stop at the Valley of Rocks, where dramatic rock formations stand against the vast horizon, and the historic San Cristóbal mining town.
- Return to Uyuni by 6:30 p.m., with unforgettable memories of one of Bolivia’s most extraordinary regions. Spend the night at a basic shelter in the Laguna Colorada area, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Bolivian highlands.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
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DAY 7 Marvel at Geysers, Volcanoes, and Scenic Lagoons
- Start the day early, between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m., for a breathtaking exploration of Bolivia’s high-altitude landscapes. Begin at the Sol de Mañana Geysers, where volcanic activity creates dramatic clouds of steam and sulphur rising against the morning light, offering an otherworldly start to the day.
- Relax in the natural thermal pools at Polques Hot Springs, a perfect way to unwind while surrounded by the serene beauty of the rugged Andean terrain. Next, marvel at the surreal rock formations and colourful vistas of the Dali Desert, which resemble the dreamlike paintings of Salvador Dalí.
- Continue to the emerald-green Laguna Verde and the white-hued Laguna Blanca, both nestled at the foot of the majestic Licancabur Volcano, providing striking photo opportunities.
- The tour also includes the Valley of Rocks, where bizarre, sculptural rock formations seem to come alive in the arid desert, and the San Cristóbal Mining Town, offering a glimpse into the region’s history and local life.
- Return to Uyuni by 6:30 p.m., with memories of these incredible natural wonders etched in your mind.
- Depending on your travel arrangements, either enjoy an overnight stay in a hotel in Uyuni or prepare for an overnight bus journey back to La Paz, marking the end of this awe-inspiring segment of your Bolivian adventure.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
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DAY 8 Transition from Uyuni to La Paz and Climbing Briefing
- Begin the day with an early departure from Uyuni. If travelling by bus, arrive in La Paz in the morning after an overnight journey. For those taking a flight, enjoy a quick transfer from Pueblo Colchani to the airport, followed by a scenic one-hour flight back to La Paz.
- Once in the city, settle into your hotel and take the afternoon to prepare for the upcoming ascent of Nevado Huayna Potosí, a highlight of your Bolivian adventure.
- During the briefing session, meet your local mountain guide and receive an overview of the climb, including an introduction to the technical equipment such as crampons and ice axes. This preparation ensures you’re fully equipped and ready for the challenges ahead.
- Spend the remainder of the day acclimatising to the altitude and relaxing at your hotel.
- Take this time to mentally and physically prepare for the thrilling experience of summiting one of Bolivia’s most iconic peaks. Enjoy a restful night in La Paz, knowing an incredible adventure awaits.
Meals included: breakfast
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DAY 9 Preparing for the Summit at High Camp Las Rocas
- Start your day with a hotel pick-up in La Paz and a scenic 2-hour drive to the Huayna Potosí Base Camp, situated at 4,700 metres. Upon arrival, settle into the high-altitude environment and enjoy lunch while the guides assist with a thorough technical equipment check to ensure you’re fully prepared for the climb.
- After lunch, embark on a 2-hour trek from the base camp to High Camp Las Rocas, located at 5,000 metres. The hike is both challenging and rewarding, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Upon reaching High Camp, set up shelter and take time to acclimatise to the altitude.
- Spend the evening reviewing your climbing gear and itinerary with your guides while enjoying a hearty dinner. Rest in the basic mountain shelter, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Andes, as you prepare mentally and physically for the exciting summit attempt ahead.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
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DAY 10 Conquer Huayna Potosí: A High-Altitude Adventure
- Begin your summit attempt early, starting from High Camp Las Rocas at approximately 2:00 a.m.
- After a light breakfast, prepare your gear and embark on the final leg of the climb. The journey starts with a one-hour approach to the glacier, where you’ll put on crampons and continue across the icy terrain.
- The ascent to the summit takes approximately 8 hours, navigating steep sections and crevasses under the guidance of experienced mountaineers.
- At the summit of Huayna Potosí (6,088 metres), take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys. This incredible moment is a true highlight of your Bolivian adventure, offering a profound sense of accomplishment at one of South America’s most iconic summits.
- After capturing the views and resting briefly, begin your descent back to High Camp, where a nourishing soup awaits to replenish your energy.
- Continue the descent to Base Camp, where transportation will be waiting to take you back to La Paz. Arrive in the city by evening and unwind at your hotel, reflecting on the unforgettable achievement of summiting Huayna Potosí.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
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DAY 11 Mountain Biking Adventure on Bolivia’s Death Road
- Start the day with breakfast and prepare for an exhilarating downhill mountain biking adventure along Bolivia’s legendary Death Road, also known as the “world’s most dangerous road.” Depart from La Paz and head to La Cumbre (4,700 metres), where the ride begins amid stunning views of snow-capped peaks.
- The descent takes you through dramatic changes in landscape and altitude, starting with the crisp mountain air of the Andes and winding down into the lush, subtropical Yungas region. The narrow, winding road offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, steep cliffs, and dense vegetation.
- Along the way, expert guides ensure safety and provide support, making the experience accessible even for first-time riders.
- At the end of the ride, enjoy a well-deserved meal and some relaxation in the vibrant greenery of the Yungas.
- After an adrenaline-filled day, return to La Paz in the evening, where you can unwind at your hotel and reflect on this thrilling and unforgettable adventure.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
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DAY 12 Farewell to Bolivia or Extend Your Adventure
- Your final day in Bolivia begins with a private transfer to El Alto International Airport in La Paz, concluding an adventure filled with diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
- Reflect on your journey, from the vibrant markets of La Paz and the tranquil beauty of Lake Titicaca to the surreal expanses of the Uyuni Salt Flats and the high-altitude challenge of Huayna Potosí.
Meals included: breakfast
What's Included
What's Excluded
Know Before You Go
What To Bring
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
Adult | |
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1 to 15 | /person |
Child | |
1 to 15 | /person |
This is a group tour |