Salt flats and a mountain in the sunrise

Your Complete Bolivia Travel Guide

Discover the perfect timing and essential safety tips for your Bolivian adventure

Ideal Travel Time

The best time to visit Bolivia is during the shoulder seasons for optimal cost, weather, and cultural experiences.

Best Travel Months

Shoulder seasons: April-May and September-October offer the perfect balance of good weather and lower costs.

Cost-Effective Travel

Avoid peak season (June-August) for better accommodation and tour prices during shoulder months.

Perfect Weather

April-May

End of rainy season with lush landscapes and less rainfall

September-October

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures for highland and lowland exploration

Cultural Festivals

May - Gran Poder Festival

Vibrant traditional dances and costumes in La Paz

September - Independence Day

National celebrations with parades and festivities

October - Día de los Muertos

Fascinating Day of the Dead celebrations

Safety & Practical Tips

Stay safe and prepared during your Bolivian adventure with these essential tips and recommendations.

Health Precautions

  • Get vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever
  • Prepare for altitude sickness - acclimate slowly and stay hydrated

Safety & Security

  • Watch for pickpocketing in crowded areas
  • Use reputable transportation in rural areas
  • Stay informed about political demonstrations

Money & Expenses

  • Currency: Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
  • Always carry cash - limited ATM access outside cities

Cultural Sensitivity

  • Ask permission before photographing people
  • Dress modestly at religious sites
  • Respect indigenous communities and traditions
Traditional houses with red roofs and cultivated fields are spread across the green landscape of Taquile Island, overlooking the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca in Peru. A peaceful rural setting

Traditional houses dot the peaceful landscape of Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca, Peru

Pro Tip: Check the latest travel advisories from your government before departure. Being prepared and respectful will ensure your Bolivian adventure is both safe and unforgettable!

Join the Journey

Discover Bolivia's stunning landscapes and rich culture with our expertly crafted itineraries

Car standing in middle of salt flat reflecting blue sky, Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Experience the surreal beauty of Salar de Uyuni - the world's largest salt flat

Explore Bolivia in One Week

Embark on a journey through Bolivia's rich heritage and natural beauty with this 7-day itinerary. Discover urban life in La Paz, the ethereal Uyuni Salt Flats, and the historic Lake Titicaca.

1-2 La Paz

  • Activities: Visit the Witch Market (Mercado de las Brujas), explore Plaza Murillo, and enjoy panoramic views from Mi Teleférico cable car system.
  • Transport: La Paz is served by El Alto International Airport. Public transport is available within the city.

3-4 Uyuni Salt Flats

  • Activities: Travel to Uyuni by plane or bus. Tour the vast Uyuni Salt Flats and visit Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti.
  • Transport: Direct flights from La Paz to Uyuni available. Overnight buses offer semi-cama or cama service.

5-6 Lake Titicaca

  • Activities: Travel from La Paz to Copacabana. Take a boat trip to Isla del Sol and explore ancient Inca ruins.
  • Transport: Buses to Copacabana are available from La Paz. Boat tours depart from Copacabana harbor.

Travel Tips

Altitude: La Paz is at high altitude; acclimatize upon arrival.

Currency: Boliviano (BOB); carry cash for small purchases.

Language: Spanish is widely spoken; learn basic phrases.

This one-week itinerary in Bolivia highlights a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, promising unforgettable experiences. 🇧🇴✨

Bolivia in Two Weeks

Exploring Bolivia in two weeks allows you to experience the country's diverse landscapes, from high-altitude cities and surreal salt flats to lush jungles and serene lakes.

1 Week 1: La Paz, Uyuni, and the Amazon

Day 1-2: La Paz
  • Activities: Explore La Paz's vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and the Valley of the Moon. Tour the Tiwanaku ruins.
  • Transport: Taxis and public buses widely available. El Alto airport connected by shuttle services.
Day 3-5: Uyuni Salt Flats
  • Activities: Take a 3-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats. Explore Incahuasi Island, Train Cemetery, and colored lagoons.
  • Transport: Fly from La Paz to Uyuni (1 hour) or take a bus (10-12 hours).
Day 6-7: Amazon Basin
  • Activities: Fly to Rurrenabaque for Amazon tour. Wildlife spotting including anacondas, caimans, and pink dolphins.
  • Transport: Direct flights from La Paz to Rurrenabaque take about 40 minutes.

2 Week 2: Sucre, Potosí, and Lake Titicaca

Day 8-9: Sucre
  • Activities: Discover Sucre's constitutional capital. Visit House of Liberty Museum and the Dinosaur Tracks.
  • Transport: Fly or take bus to Sucre (flight: 1 hour, bus: 12-14 hours from La Paz).
Day 10-11: Potosí
  • Activities: Tour the historic Cerro Rico silver mines and visit the Mint of Potosí museum.
  • Transport: Buses from Sucre to Potosí take about 2-3 hours through the Andes.
Day 12-14: Lake Titicaca
  • Activities: Visit Copacabana, boat to Isla del Sol, explore Inca ruins with breathtaking lake views.
  • Transport: Bus from Potosí to La Paz (8-10 hours), then to Copacabana (3-4 hours).

Travel Tips

Altitude: Acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, consider medication for altitude sickness.
Safety: Exercise caution in crowded places. Use reputable tour companies.
Currency: Boliviano (BOB). ATMs in larger cities, carry cash in remote areas.
Language: Spanish is primary language. Basic phrases enhance your experience.

This two-week itinerary provides a comprehensive journey through Bolivia's rich cultural heritage and diverse natural wonders. 🏔️🌿

Bolivia in Three Weeks

A three-week journey through Bolivia offers extensive exploration of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique geological wonders from the Andean highlands to the Amazon Basin.

1 Week 1: La Paz and Lake Titicaca

Day 1-3: La Paz
  • Activities: Explore La Paz's cultural landmarks including Witch Market, Moon Valley, and Tiwanaku ruins UNESCO site.
  • Transport: El Alto International Airport serves La Paz with taxis and public transport available.
Day 4-5: Lake Titicaca
  • Activities: Travel to Copacabana. Visit the Basilica, boat to Isla del Sol, hike to see Inca ruins.
  • Transport: Buses from La Paz to Copacabana take about 3-4 hours.
Day 6-7: Travel Day
  • Activities: Return to La Paz and prepare for journey to Uyuni Salt Flats.
  • Transport: Rest in La Paz before next leg of adventure.

2 Week 2: Uyuni and Potosí

Day 8-10: Uyuni Salt Flats
  • Activities: Join 3-day tour of Uyuni. Visit Incahuasi Island, Train Cemetery, colored lagoons, flamingos, and geysers.
  • Transport: Fly from La Paz to Uyuni (1 hour) or overnight bus (10-12 hours).
Day 11-12: Potosí
  • Activities: Explore historic Potosí. Tour Cerro Rico silver mines and visit Casa de la Moneda museum.
  • Transport: Buses from Uyuni to Potosí take 6-7 hours with breathtaking highland views.
Day 13-14: Sucre
  • Activities: Discover constitutional capital Sucre. Visit House of Liberty Museum and admire colonial architecture.
  • Transport: Buses from Potosí to Sucre take 2-3 hours through Andean landscapes.

3 Week 3: Santa Cruz and Samaipata

Day 15-17: Santa Cruz
  • Activities: Experience tropical Bolivia. Explore cultural sites, Guembe Biocenter's butterfly conservatory, and cathedral.
  • Transport: Flights from Sucre to Santa Cruz are about 30 minutes.
Day 18-19: Samaipata
  • Activities: Explore El Fuerte UNESCO site. Enjoy natural beauty including waterfalls and hiking trails.
  • Transport: Buses or shared taxis from Santa Cruz take 2-3 hours.
Day 20-21: Return to La Paz
  • Activities: Last-minute exploration or shopping. Day trip to Chacaltaya or Moon Valley if not done earlier.
  • Transport: Fly from Santa Cruz to La Paz (about 1 hour) for departure.

Travel Tips

Altitude Sickness: Take precautions when traveling to high-altitude areas. Acclimatize gradually.
Safety: Exercise common sense and caution in crowded areas and public transport.
Currency: Boliviano (BOB). ATMs in larger cities, carry cash in remote areas.
Language: Spanish widely spoken. Indigenous languages prevalent in rural areas.

This three-week itinerary offers a profound journey through Bolivia, showcasing varied ecosystems, ancient cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. 🏔️🌎

Ready for Your Bolivian Adventure?

From the mystical Uyuni Salt Flats to the peaks of the Andes - Bolivia awaits your discovery!

Abstract paint brush textured stripes in traditional African colors red, yellow, green. Design element for Juneteenth, Kwanzaa, Black History month

Explore Bolivias Secrets

Exploring Bolivia through its hidden gems offers a unique journey into the heart of its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, away from the crowded tourist paths. This 12-day itinerary is designed to guide you through lesser-known yet captivating destinations across Bolivia, providing an authentic and memorable experience.
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Day 1-2: Sucre

Start your adventure in Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and relaxed atmosphere.

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Activities:

Explore the Recoleta Monastery for panoramic city views, visit the Museum of Indigenous Art to learn about Bolivia's rich textile traditions, and stroll through the Cal Orcko to see the largest collection of dinosaur footprints in the world.

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Day 3-4: Torotoro National Park

Head to Torotoro National Park, located north of Potosí, a haven for geology, paleontology enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

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Activities:

Hike through the canyon, explore caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites, see dinosaur footprints, and visit the impressive Torotoro Canyon. Don't miss the chance to see the Vergel Waterfall.

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Day 5-6: Samaipata

Travel to Samaipata, a serene town nestled in the eastern foothills of the Andes. It's known for its pleasant climate, archaeological sites, and nearby Amboro National Park.

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Activities:

Explore the pre-Inca ruins of El Fuerte, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a day trip to Amboro National Park for bird watching and to enjoy its diverse ecosystems. Relax in the laid-back atmosphere of the town and visit local artisan markets.

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Day 7-8: Madidi National Park

Venture into Madidi National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, located in the upper Amazon river basin.

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Activities:

Embark on a guided tour through the rainforest to learn about its flora and fauna, enjoy bird watching, and experience the incredible biodiversity. Stay in an eco-lodge and learn about the indigenous communities that protect and inhabit this region.

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Day 9-10: Uyuni Salt Flats

Head to the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest salt flats in the world. While the salt flats themselves are well-known, there are ways to experience this surreal landscape away from the main tourist areas.

🌅
Activities:

Visit the train cemetery, explore the salt flats during sunrise or sunset for the best light, and look for the more remote and less visited Incahuasi Island (Isla Incahuasi) for its giant cacti. Consider staying in a salt hotel for a unique experience.

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Day 11-12: Tiwanaku

Conclude your journey at Tiwanaku, an ancient archaeological site near Lake Titicaca, once the center of a powerful pre-Inca civilization.

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Activities:

Explore the ruins, including the Akapana Pyramid, the Kalasasaya Temple, and the iconic Gate of the Sun. Visit the nearby museums to learn about the Tiwanaku culture and its influence on Andean civilizations.

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Travel Tips

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Transportation

Domestic flights can save time between distant locations. For local exploration, renting a car or using buses and shared taxis (colectivos) offer a more local experience.

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Accommodations

Opt for locally-run guesthouses, eco-lodges, or community-run accommodations to support local economies and enjoy authentic hospitality.

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Seasonal Considerations

The best time to visit Bolivia is during the dry season, from May to October, especially for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting the salt flats.

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Culinary Exploration

Bolivian cuisine is diverse and rich. Be sure to try local specialties such as salteñas (a type of savory pastry), llajwa (a spicy sauce), and traditional Andean dishes like quinoa soup and charquekan (dried llama meat).

This 12-day itinerary invites you to discover Bolivia's hidden treasures, ensuring a journey filled with natural wonders, historical insights, and cultural richness, away from the usual tourist trails.

Discover Bolivia

Your Ultimate Bolivian Adventure

From the otherworldly salt flats of Uyuni to the peaks of the Andes and the depths of the Amazon - explore the best destinations across the heart of South America

Spring in the Italian Dolomites

🏔️ Experience Bolivia's breathtaking beauty - from the stunning Salar de Uyuni to historic colonial cities and lush Amazon rainforests. Begin your Bolivian journey and discover 15 incredible destinations across this diverse Andean nation.

Salar de Uyuni

2-3 days

Activities: Explore the world's largest salt flat, visit the train graveyard, and see the cactus-filled Incahuasi Island. Sunrise and sunset tours provide spectacular photo opportunities.

Accommodation: Salt hotels near Uyuni, eco-lodges.

Specialties: Llama steak, quinoa dishes.

La Paz

2-3 days

Activities: Ride the Mi Teleférico for panoramic city views, visit the Witch Market, explore the Valley of the Moon, and take a day trip to the pre-Incan ruins of Tiwanaku.

Accommodation: Hotels and hostels in the city center or the South Zone.

Specialties: Salteñas (a type of empanada), charquekan (dried llama meat).

Sucre

1-2 days

Activities: Wander through the white-washed colonial city, visit the House of Freedom where Bolivia's independence was declared, and explore the dinosaur tracks at Cal Orck'o.

Accommodation: Colonial-style hotels and guesthouses.

Specialties: Mondongo Sucreño, chorizo chuquisaqueño.

Potosí

1-2 days

Activities: Tour the historic Cerro Rico silver mines, visit the Royal Mint, and learn about the city's rich colonial past.

Accommodation: Hotels and hostels in the city.

Specialties: Kalapurka (hot stone soup), chicharrón.

Lake Titicaca

2 days

Activities: Explore the world's highest navigable lake, visit the spiritual Isla del Sol, and experience the unique cultures of the lake's communities.

Accommodation: Guesthouses and eco-lodges on the Isla del Sol, hotels in Copacabana.

Specialties: Trucha (trout), papas a la huancaína.

Madidi Park

3-4 days

Activities: Venture into one of the most biodiverse parks in the world for wildlife watching, jungle treks, and visits to indigenous communities.

Accommodation: Eco-lodges and jungle camps.

Specialties: Amazonian fish dishes, tropical fruits.

Tupiza

1-2 days

Activities: Explore the dramatic red landscapes reminiscent of the American Wild West, horseback riding, and jeep tours.

Accommodation: Hostels and hotels.

Specialties: Empanadas, local stews.

Oruro Carnival

2-3 days

Activities: Experience one of the most famous carnivals in South America with vibrant parades, folk dances, and music.

Accommodation: Book early, as hotels fill up quickly during the carnival.

Specialties: Street food like anticuchos, tucumanas.

Torotoro Park

2-3 days

Activities: Discover dinosaur footprints, explore caves and canyons, and see stunning geological formations.

Accommodation: Basic hotels and guesthouses in Torotoro town.

Specialties: Local dishes featuring corn and potatoes.

Tarija

2-3 days

Activities: Visit vineyards, enjoy wine tasting tours, and explore beautiful valleys.

Accommodation: Wine lodges and hotels.

Specialties: Wine, regional cheeses.

Santa Cruz

2-4 days

Activities: Explore the city's vibrant nightlife, visit Lomas de Arena, and enjoy local cuisines.

Accommodation: Modern hotels and resorts.

Specialties: Majao, locro.

Rurrenabaque

3-5 days

Activities: Launch point for Amazon basin tours, wildlife observation, river cruises.

Accommodation: Eco-lodges and riverbank hotels.

Specialties: Local fish dishes, tropical fruit juices.

Cochabamba

2-3 days

Activities: Hike to the top of Cristo de la Concordia, visit the bustling La Cancha market, and enjoy the city's pleasant gardens.

Accommodation: Hotels in the city and nearby resorts.

Specialties: Silpancho, pique macho.

Samaipata

1-2 days

Activities: Explore the pre-Inca archaeological site El Fuerte, and enjoy the lush nature of Amboró National Park.

Accommodation: Guesthouses and eco-lodges.

Specialties: Local meats and cheeses.

Jesuit Missions

2-3 days

Activities: Explore the UNESCO-listed missions known for their unique fusion of European and indigenous architecture and art.

Accommodation: Lodges and guesthouses in the mission towns.

Specialties: Local pastries, traditional dishes.

Cactus landscape from Incahuasi Island overlooking the Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia under sunny sky

Travel Budget for Bolivia

Discover South America's hidden gem

Budget Travel

Accommodation

Hostels and budget hotels: €10 - €20 per night.

Food

Local eateries and street food: €5 - €10 per day.

Transportation

Local buses and shared taxis: €5 - €10 per day.

Activities

Free walking tours and affordable attractions: €5 - €15.

Total Daily Cost: €25 - €55

Mid-Range Travel

Accommodation

3-star hotels and comfortable guesthouses: €30 - €60 per night.

Food

Mid-range restaurants with occasional fine dining: €15 - €30 per day.

Transportation

Rental cars and private taxis: €20 - €40 per day.

Activities

Guided tours and attraction entry fees: €20 - €40.

Total Daily Cost: €85 - €170

Luxury Travel

Accommodation

4-5 star hotels and luxury resorts: €80 - €200+ per night.

Food

High-end restaurants and international cuisine: €40 - €80 per day.

Transportation

Luxury vehicle rental and private drivers: €50 - €100 per day.

Activities

Private guided tours and exclusive experiences: €50 - €100+.

Total Daily Cost: €220 - €480+

Planning Tips for Bolivia

These are general estimates and actual costs may vary depending on specific choices. Bolivia is one of South America's most budget-friendly destinations. Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Travel during peak seasons (May-October for dry season) and major festivals like Carnival may affect prices. Don't miss the incredible Salar de Uyuni salt flats - a once-in-a-lifetime experience!