Essentials of Bolivia Tour: La Paz, Uyun, Copacabana, Potosi Uncover South America

Bolivia Tour Essentials of Bolivia Tour: La Paz, Uyuni, Copacabana & Potosí

14 Days Similar tours from £6825

    Discover Bolivia's Essentials

    Embark on a captivating 14-day Bolivia odyssey, where each moment immerses you in the very soul of the country. Begin in La Paz, surrounded by the surreal beauty of the Moon Valley and pampered by luxurious spa retreats and culinary delights at renowned establishments like Gustu.

    Journey through Tiwanaku's ancient civilisations, soak in the tranquillity of Copacabana, and trek the rural landscapes of Sun Island. Traverse the extraordinary landscapes of Uyuni, from the haunting train cemetery to the ethereal Laguna Colorada, where flamingos dance against nature's grandeur.

    Find solace in the historic Hacienda Cayara in Potosi, delving into mining culture, and savouring a culinary odyssey in Sucre. This immersive Bolivian sojourn promises not just a tour but a profound dive into the essence of the country, a journey that unfolds the highlights, cultural treasures, and natural wonders that define Bolivia's unique spirit.


    EXPERIENCE TYPE

    Culture, Nature & Adventure

    Tour Highlights

    → La Paz City Experience: Experience the heart of La Paz by visiting Plaza Murillo and exploring the Mercado de las Brujas, while immersing yourself in the city’s culture and rich history. 

    → Uyuni Salt Flats Wonder of Bolivia: Discover the surreal beauty of the Salar de Uyuni and visit the historic Train Cemetery, where rusted locomotives stand as relics of Bolivia’s industrial past.

    → Copacabana Essence of Lake Titicaca: Experience Copacabana’s lakeside charm, meet local communities, and visit the sacred Isla del Sol

    → Potosí Legacy of Silver: Explore the historic mining city of Potosí and its iconic Cerro Rico, once the heart of Bolivia’s colonial wealth and heritage.

    → Enchanting Natural Landscapes: Explore captivating natural wonders, from Moon Valley to ancient trails, connecting with the earth's artistry and the essence of Bolivia's diverse landscapes.

    → Ancient Civilizations Exploration: Embark on an odyssey to explore ancient civilizations, connecting with the mysteries of Tiwanaku and delving into Bolivian history.

    → Cultural & Culinary Journey: Authentic Flavours and Traditions: Experience Bolivia’s rich culture through local markets, scenic cable car rides, and traditional cuisine that captures the country’s authentic essence.

    Tour Itinerary and Essentials

    • Detailed Itinerary Show All

      • Day 1 Join Tour La Paz

        Arrive at any time. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring the city at your own pace.

        La Paz, the highest administrative capital in the world, sits at 3,600 metres above sea level. Take it easy today and give your body time to get used to the altitude.

        Overnight: La Paz – Hotel Atix or similar
        Meal Plan: None

      • Day 2 La Paz Walking tour and Cable Car Experience

        After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Together, you’ll set out to explore the fascinating city of La Paz, taking the time to enjoy each stop at a comfortable pace.

        You’ll visit some of the city’s colourful markets, where the aromas, sounds, and traditions of daily life fill the streets. Continue to the historic centre to discover the colonial district, Murillo Square, and the charming Jaén Street, lined with beautifully preserved houses and small museums.

        At the end of the day, you’ll take a ride on La Paz’s impressive cable car system, the highest in the world, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the city and the surrounding Andes.

        Note: If your visit falls on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday, you’ll have the chance to experience the famous Cholitas Wrestling Show from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., a unique and entertaining expression of local culture and tradition.

        Overnight: La Paz – Hotel Atix or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

      • Day 3 Tiwanaku and Copacabana Tour, Lake Titicaca Sunset

        After breakfast, we will pick you up at the hotel to visit the Tiwanaku archaeological site, once the center of one of the most important Andean civilizations between the 5th and 11th centuries.

        As we explore its remarkable ruins, we’ll learn about the culture, architecture, and traditions that shaped this ancient society.

        In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to the picturesque town of Copacabana, located on the shores of the legendary Lake Titicaca. If time permits, we’ll walk up the Way of the Cross, known locally as “El Calvario,” to enjoy panoramic views over the lake and surrounding hills.

        As the day comes to an end, we’ll admire a beautiful sunset over Lake Titicaca, a perfect way to close the day.

        Overnight: Copacabana - Hotel Rosario del Lago or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 4 Explore Rural Bolivia and Lake Titicaca from Copacabana to Sun Island

        This morning, we’ll depart from Copacabana harbour and board a motorboat bound for the Lourdes Cave, a journey of approximately one hour and thirty minutes. From there, enjoy a scenic walk along the lakeshore towards the village of Yampupata, where you’ll experience the peaceful rhythm of rural Bolivia, framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Royal Cordillera and the shimmering waters of Lake Titicaca.

        We’ll then cross the lake to the Yumani pier, a thirty-minute boat ride. From here, follow ancient trails up to your accommodation, surrounded by the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca and sweeping Andean views.

        Overnight: Sun Island on Lake Titicaca – La Estancia Ecolodge
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 5 Inca Stairs and Boat Crossing to Moon Island, Lake Titicaca Tour

        Early in the morning, we descend from Yumani along the ancient Inca stairs, a route steeped in history that leads us to the sacred Inca springs, remarkable examples of Inca engineering and culture.
        Next, we’ll visit the Pilcocaina Temple, a sacred space that reflects the spiritual and historical significance of the region. From there, we’ll board a boat to Moon Island, where the Temple of the Inca’s Virgins awaits exploration. Experience the serene and mystical atmosphere of this ancient site before returning to the shores of Copacabana.

        As the day comes to an end, we’ll make our way back to La Paz, carrying memories of the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures of Lake Titicaca.

         

        Overnight: La Paz – Hotel Atix or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

      • Day 6 Flight to Uyuni, Visit to the Train Cemetery and San Cristobal Village

        After breakfast, we will depart for La Paz airport for our flight to Uyuni. Upon arrival, we will be welcomed at the airport and begin our journey to the Lipez Region.

        Our first stop will be the famous Train Cemetery, located on the outskirts of Uyuni. We’ll then pass through San Cristobal, a village that was relocated after the arrival of a mining company. A notable highlight is the church, which was rebuilt stone by stone at a cost of approximately half a million dollars

        Next, we’ll visit the Rocky Valley, where erosion has sculpted striking rock formations rising several meters above the sandy soil, as if by magic. Before reaching our destination, we’ll pause to admire a breathtaking view of a canyon.

        We will arrive in Villamar by late afternoon, where the evening unfolds in the serene landscape of the Lipez Region

        Overnight: Villamar - Hotel Malku Cueva or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 7 Visit to Polques Thermal Springs, Green and Red Lagoons, Siloli Desert Adventure

        The day begins in Villamar, heading to the thermal springs of Polques, where adventurous travelers can enjoy a refreshing dip while admiring the Chalviri Lagoon. We then traverse the surreal Dali Desert, a landscape of ochre sands and isolated rock formations, en route to Bolivia’s southernmost tip, where the White Lagoon and the vibrant Green Lagoon lie beneath the towering Licancabur Volcano.

        Our journey continues through a high-altitude pass near 5,000 m to Sol de Mañana, a geothermally active area featuring geysers, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pools. We then reach the striking Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon), home to elegant pink flamingos, a spectacle of nature’s beauty.

        Finally, we cross the Siloli Desert, marveling at unique geological formations including the famous Stone Tree and multicolored mountains, before arriving at the Desert Hotel, where the serenity of the Altiplano offers a perfect end to an extraordinary day.

        Overnight: Desierto de Siloli - Ojo de Perdiz - Tayka del Desierto hotel or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 8 Journey through Multicolored Mountains, Siloli Desert and 1,001 Lagoons

        In the morning, the journey begins along the famous 1,001 Lagoons route, passing stunning lakes such as Honda, Ch’arkota, Hedionda, and Cañapa, many of which are home to elegant pink flamingos. The multicolored mountains in the background create a breathtaking panorama.

        Each stretch of the route offers its own unique landscapes and surprises. We will pause to admire the towering Ollague and Tomasamil volcanoes, taking in the vastness and beauty of the Bolivian Altiplano.

        The adventure continues across the shimmering Chiguana Salt Flat, a natural wonder that marks the end of this remarkable day. By late afternoon, we will arrive in San Pedro de Quemez, ready to relax and reflect on the incredible scenery experienced along the way.
         

        Overnight: San Pedro De Quemez Tayka de Piedra hotel Tayka or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 9 Uyuni Salt Flats, Incahuasi Island and Galaxies Cave Colchani Adventure

        We begin the day with a short detour to visit the Galaxies Cave, a truly unique and extraordinary place.

        Our journey then continues toward the Uyuni Salt Flats, a landscape that surpasses all expectations. Its pristine surface stretches endlessly, offering a blank canvas for imagination. Scattered with natural "islands", these spots become perfect viewpoints for sightseeing, photography, picnics, or simply reflecting on the beauty of the world. We explore Incahuasi Island with a pleasant 45-minute walk along an equipped trail, discovering a magical forest of giant cacti that rise from the salt like a scene from another world.

        In the afternoon, we drive to the village of Colchani, where we may visit a small salt workshop. The day concludes with a stunning sunset over the Uyuni Salt Flats, as the landscape transforms into shimmering hues of gold and amber, a truly unforgettable experience.
         

        Overnight: Uyuni - Luna Salada Hotel or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 10 Potosí Highlights Pulacayo, the Huanchaca Mine and Casa de la Moneda

        In the morning, we depart for the imperial city of Potosí, making a stop along the way at the historic mining centre of Pulacayo, built around the Huanchaca, the second largest silver mine in the world.

        Upon arrival in Potosí in the afternoon, we enjoy lunch before visiting the Casa de la Moneda (closed Sunday afternoons and Mondays). This massive colonial building, constructed by the Spanish in the Americas, is an impressive site rich with history, offering a fascinating glimpse into Potosí’s mining past and colonial heritage.

        After the visit, we check in at a comfortable hotel near Potosí, where we can relax and reflect on the remarkable sights of the day. 

        Overnight: Potosi - Hotel Hacienda Cayara or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 11 Visit Cerro Rico mines and Journey to Sucre

        We will pick you up at your hotel to visit the Miner’s Market, where you can experience the local culture and vibrant daily life of the miners.

        From there, we will explore the Cerro Rico mines, learning about the rich mining history of the region and the lives of the miners who work in this iconic site.

        After lunch, we will depart by private transport for Sucre, a journey of approximately three hours. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

        Note: visits to the Cerro Rico mines are limited on Saturdays and Mondays, and the mines are closed on Sundays.

        Overnight: Sucre - Hotel Parador Santa Maria or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 12 City Tour Sucre The White City and Iconic Landmarks

        Today, we will visit Sucre, known as the “White City”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a relaxing walking tour. Your guide will ensure the day flows comfortably, allowing you to enjoy the city at your own pace.

        We will explore some of Sucre’s most iconic sites, including the Recoleta Convent, 25 de Mayo Square, the Casa de la Libertad (House of Liberty, closed Sunday afternoons and Mondays), and the San Felipe Nery Monastery. During the tour, we will also stop at the Ethnographic Textile Museum (ASUR), where you can admire traditional textiles from Bolivia’s highland cultures, such as those of the Quechua and Aymara communities. The museum offers a fascinating look at weaving techniques, symbolic patterns, and the cultural stories behind each piece.

        After a day of discovery, we return to the hotel in the afternoon to relax. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Proyecto Nativa, one of the city’s finest restaurants.

        Overnight: Sucre - Hotel Parador Santa Maria or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

      • Day 13 Travel from Sucre to La Paz

        After breakfast, we will pick you up at the hotel to transfer to Sucre Airport for your flight to La Paz.

        Upon arrival, you will be welcomed at La Paz Airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city at your own pace

        Overnight: La Paz – Hotel Atix or similar
        Meal Plan: Breakfast

      • Day 14 End of the Tour

        At the designated time, your guide will pick you up and transfer you to El Alto International Airport for your departure.

        Overnight: None
        Meal Plan: Breakfast

    • What's Included

      • 13 nights' accommodation / double room or similar 
      • Private ground transportation 
      • Meals as defined in the itinerary
      • Local English-speaking tour guide
      • Domestic flights: *Flight La Paz – Uyuni, Sucre – La Paz
      • Activities mentioned in the itinerary
      • Entrance fees to National Park, historical sites, museums, churches
      • The supervision for your 4X4 expedition with a Spanish speaking driver from day 6 to day 10 (4 clients per vehicle)

      What's not Included

      • International flights
      • Meals not listed in the itinerary
      • Tips and other discretionary expenses
      • Insurance coverage * Personal insurance must be purchased by travelers in person.
      • Visas for Bolivia
      • Rescue or medical expenses that may occur during the trip

    THANK YOU

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