1 week itinerary for an adventurous traveler visiting Bolivia:
Dive into an exhilarating journey through the heart of South America with our meticulously crafted 1-week itinerary for the adventurous traveler exploring Bolivia. From the breathtaking heights of the Andes to the otherworldly landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia beckons with its unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry. Join us as we delve into an action-packed week filled with unforgettable experiences, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and encounters with the vibrant soul of this enchanting country.
Day 1: Arrival in La Paz
After arriving in La Paz, take some time to explore the city and acclimate to the high altitude (3600m above sea level). Visit local markets and museums, try traditional Bolivian cuisine, and get a feel for the vibrant culture.
Here are some of the best things to see and do in La Paz:
- Explore the Historic Center: La Paz's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring colonial-era buildings, vibrant street markets, and traditional plazas. Take a walking tour to discover the city's rich history and culture.
- Visit the Witches' Market: The Witches' Market is a must-see for anyone visiting La Paz. Here you will find traditional medicinal herbs, spells, and talismans for sale.
- Ride the Teleférico: Take a ride on La Paz's cable car system for a breathtaking view of the city and its surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Museum of Ethnography and Folklore: This museum showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Bolivia, including its indigenous people, colonial history, and contemporary art.
- Explore Moon Valley: Moon Valley is a unique geological formation located just outside of La Paz. Take a guided tour to explore the otherworldly landscapes and formations.
- Visit the San Francisco Church: The San Francisco Church is a colonial-era church located in the heart of La Paz. The church is known for its ornate baroque architecture and its historical significance.
- Shop at El Alto Market: El Alto Market is one of the largest markets in South America, offering a unique shopping experience and a glimpse into the daily life of the city's residents.
Searching for a tour adventure tour package to Bolivia or a custom trip? Explore some of the best trips here.
Day 2: Valle de la Luna and Valle de las Animas
- Take a day trip to the nearby Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) and Valle de las Animas (Souls Valley). The lunar-like landscapes offer unique hiking opportunities and breathtaking views.
Valle de la Luna is a unique geological formation located just outside of La Paz. It is named for its otherworldly landscapes and formations, which are said to resemble the surface of the moon. The valley features towering rock formations, caves, and canyons, and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
Valle de las Animas, on the other hand, is a scenic valley located near La Paz. It is named for its mystical and spiritual energy, and is said to be a place of peace and serenity. The valley features rolling hills, streams, and forests, and is a popular spot for picnicking, horseback riding, and hiking.
Both Valle de la Luna and Valle de las Animas are stunning natural wonders that offer a unique and unforgettable experience to visitors to La Paz.
Day 3: Death Road and Paragliding
- For an adrenaline rush, go mountain biking down the famous Death Road or go paragliding over the city for panoramic views.
The "Death Road" in Bolivia, also known as "Camino de las Yungas," is a scenic mountain road that connects the city of La Paz to the town of Coroico in the Amazon rainforest. The road is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world due to its narrow, winding path that clings to the side of a mountain, and its steep drop-offs with no guardrails.
Despite its reputation, the Death Road is a popular tourist attraction, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world who come to experience the road's breathtaking views and intense adrenaline rush. The road is most commonly experienced on a guided mountain bike tour, which takes visitors through the lush Andes Mountains and down the steep and winding descent to the tropical forests below.
While the Death Road is a dangerous and challenging road, it is also a breathtakingly beautiful journey that offers an unforgettable experience for those who dare to take it on. However, it is important to exercise caution and only undertake the journey with a reputable guide and proper safety equipment.
Day 4: Salar de Uyuni Tour 3 Days
- Travel to the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flats, for a truly unique landscape. Explore the area on foot or by 4WD vehicle and take in the stunning views of the vast, white expanse. The tour typically follows the following itinerary over 3 days. The tour starts with a visit to the town of Uyuni, where visitors can see the train cemetery and the small town before heading out to the salt flats. Visitors will spend the night in a hotel made of salt blocks.
Day 5: Salar de Uyuni Tour
- The second day of the tour is dedicated to exploring the Salar de Uyuni, a vast and seemingly endless expanse of salt that covers over 10,000 square kilometers. Visitors will have the opportunity to take incredible photos, visit small islands in the middle of the salt flats, and see how salt is harvested from the flats.
Day 6: Salar de Uyuni Tour
- The final day of the tour takes visitors through the stunning surrounding landscapes, including the Red Lagoon, where visitors can see flamingos and other wildlife, and the Sol de Mañana geysers, where boiling mud pots and steam vents can be seen. The tour ends with a visit to the hot springs at Polques before returning to Uyuni. The 3-day Salar de Uyuni tour is an incredible journey that takes visitors through some of Bolivia's most stunning and unique landscapes. With breathtaking vistas, interesting wildlife, and a fascinating cultural heritage, this tour is a must-do for any traveler visiting Bolivia.
Want More? We Suggest the follow 4 day extension if you can afford the time.
Day 7: Tiwanaku
- On the 7th day, visit the nearby Tiwanaku, an important pre-Columbian ruin near La Paz. The site is one of the most important archaeological sites in South America and offers insights into the ancient civilizations of the region.
The Tiwanaku tour is a popular excursion for those visiting La Paz, Bolivia. Tiwanaku is an ancient pre-Columbian civilization that once dominated much of the Andes region and left behind a legacy of incredible architectural feats and fascinating cultural beliefs.
The tour typically starts with a visit to the Tiwanaku archaeological site, located approximately 70 kilometers from La Paz. At the site, visitors can see the remains of the ancient city, including the Akapana Pyramid, the Kalasasaya Temple, and the Sun Gate, which is thought to have served as an astronomical observatory. Visitors will also have the opportunity to learn about the culture and beliefs of the Tiwanaku people, as well as the history of the site and its role in the Andean region.
The tour also often includes a visit to the Tiwanaku Museum, which displays many of the artifacts and objects that were uncovered during excavations at the site. Here, visitors can learn about the daily life, religious practices, and technology of the Tiwanaku people.
Overall, the Tiwanaku tour is an incredible opportunity for visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage of Bolivia and to learn about one of the most fascinating civilizations of the ancient world. With knowledgeable guides, well-preserved ruins, and a wealth of fascinating information, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in history and archaeology.
Day 8-9: Lake Titicaca
- Take a two-day tour of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating islands of the Uros, the colonial town of Puno, and the Sillustani ruins.
A typical 2-day Lake Titicaca tour from La Paz, Bolivia, would cover the following highlights:
Day 1: The tour begins with a scenic drive to the Puno region, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Upon arrival, visitors will take a boat tour to the Uros Floating Islands, a group of artificial islands made of reeds that have been built and inhabited by the Uros people for centuries. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the unique culture and traditions of the Uros people, as well as to explore the islands and try their hand at traditional activities like fishing and weaving.
Day 2: On the second day of the tour, visitors will take a boat tour to Taquile Island, a remote and traditional island located in the middle of Lake Titicaca. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the island, learn about the indigenous culture and traditions, and visit the local markets. Visitors may also take a hike to the top of the island for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The tour may also include visits to other sites and attractions around Lake Titicaca, such as the Puma Punku ruins, the Chucuito Peninsula and the Sillustani burial towers.
Overall, a 2-day Lake Titicaca tour from La Paz is an incredible journey that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. With stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Bolivia.
Day 10: Departure
- Return to La Paz for departure or continue your travels in Bolivia.
Please note that these activities may be subject to change based on local conditions, weather, and other factors. Always be mindful of your safety and the recommendations of local authorities when traveling.
Now start planning your trip! Browse some of our recommended Bolivia trip package here. Or customize a trip with one of our travel experts.
