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Flamingos in Bolivia's Salt Flats

Classic Bolivia Adventure

Example 14 Day Tour
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This 14-day adventure through Bolivia's diverse landscapes and cultural treasures begins in La Paz, where travelers explore the city's highlights including the government palace, San Francisco Church, and the Moon Valley. The trip continues with a visit to Lake Titicaca, where travelers engage with the local community in Santiago de Okola and explore Sun Island's Inca ruins.

Heading to Cochabamba, experience a 4x4 expedition to Torotoro National Park. The itinerary then leads to Uyuni Salt Flats before going through the landscapes of the Red and Green Lagoons.

The adventure concludes with explorations in Potosí, the history of silver mining, and a visit to Sucre, Bolivia's colonial gem. 
Salar de Uyunila pazLa PazIsland of the Sun. BoliviaCopacabanaThe salt flats of the Atacama Desert stretch as far as the eye can seeMines of PotosiPotosi to UyuniFlamingos in Bolivia's Salt Flats
Highlights
  • Explore La Paz's highlights: San Francisco Church, the Moon Valley and more
  • Engage with the local community in Santiago de Okola
  • Tour Sun Island's Inca ruins on Lake Titicaca
  • Observe prehistoric dinosaur footprints in Torotoro National Park
  • Witness landscapes of the Uyuni Salt Flats
  • Conclude the adventure with explorations in Potosí and a visit to Sucre
Places Visited
Activity Level: Easy Active
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in La Paz

Upon your arrival in La Paz, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a half-day tour of La Paz, where you will witness the highlights of the city. Along the way, visit the main square, home to the government palace, the National Congress, and San Francisco Church among other interesting sites. At the Killi Killi viewpoint, you marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. Heading south, explore the residential areas en route to the renowned Moon Valley, known for its fascinating geological formations reminiscent of the lunar landscape and stunning vistas of the Andes Mountains. On the way back to the city, enjoy an exciting panoramic ride on the first-class cable car, offering fabulous views from atop the city. The tour concludes with a visit to the popular Witches' Market located in the city center, after which you will return to your lodging to rest up for the next day.

 

Day 2: Excursion to Santiago de Okola

Lake Titicaca, situated between Bolivia and Peru, stands out as one of the world's most captivating lakes. It holds sacred significance for the Inca civilization, boasting incredible scenery with azure waters that reflect the surrounding hills and sky, their hue shifting with the clouds. Santiago de Okola, a farming community nestled on Lake Titicaca's shores, is just a three-hour drive from La Paz and is where your adventure continues today.

Here, engage in a community tour, participate in traditional weaving workshops, or savor authentic meals with a local family. You'll also have leisure time to wander along the beach, ascend the renowned "Dragon Dormido" (Sleeping Dragon), and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery.


 

Day 3: Copacabana | Sun Island

You'll spend part of the morning in Santiago de Okola enjoying time with the community, learning about their traditions, agriculture, fishing, and cultural heritage. Private transportation will be provided to Copacabana for lunch in the town. In the afternoon, board a private typical boat bound for Isla del Sol (Sun Island), a place brimming with history and mystery. After a one-hour sail across deep blue waters and skies, you'll arrive and explore some of the remaining Inca ruins, such as the Pilko Kaina temple. Near Yumani village, you'll climb the Escalera del Inca, a staircase of 200 steps leading to a spring called the Inca’s Fountain, believed to prolong youth. Spend the night on Sun Island tonight.

Day 4: Copacabana | La Paz

After breakfast, head out on a leisurely hike around the island, taking in the renowned peacefulness and beauty of the surroundings. Take in the breathtaking views all around, while also experiencing the enduring traditions of Andean agrarian cultures dating back to pre-Columbian times.

Around midday, a delicious native lunch known as Apthapi will await. After lunch, board the boat back to Copacabana, to explore the town. Copacabana is famous for its 16th-century shrine, the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, housing a revered Dark Madonna. As you tour the town, delve into its mystical spiritualism and rich religious traditions. Finally, return to La Paz in the evening.




 

Day 5: Flight to Cochabamba | Explore Torotoro

This morning, catch an early flight to Cochabamba, where you'll be picked up from the airport. The drive is an impressive journey North of Potosí in a private 4x4 vehicle. The landscape will continually change, offering ample opportunities for memorable photo moments and stops along the way.

Upon arriving in Torotoro and settling into your hotel, your first adventure awaits: exploring Umajalanta, Bolivia's deepest cave with seven kilometers yet to be discovered. While hiking to the cave, pass by some of your first glimpses of dinosaur footprints that this park is known for along the way. Equipped with a helmet and headlamp, enter the cave for an exhilarating adventure. Inside, encounter breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations, and observe endemic blind fish species. After a big day, return to your lodging in Torotoro, to rest and be ready for more adventure in the morning. 

Day 6: Torotoro Full Day Adventure

This morning, venture out from the hotel towards the mountains in a 4x4 vehicle. First stop on the agenda today is Ciudad Itas, a distinctive mountain standing roughly 4000 meters (13,000FT) above sea level. Here, explore fascinating rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years by flowing water, and visit a 2000-year-old wall adorned with paintings left by ancient civilizations.

From this vantage point, enjoy a panoramic view of the entire National Park, its hanging valleys, canyons, and ridges. Keep a sharp eye out for the majestic Condor, the world's largest bird, which you may have the chance to spot with a bit of luck.

Next stop is on to Carrera's pampas, an area naturally exposed by the elements. Impressive footprints left behind by various dinosaur species are speckled throughout this region. Your knowledgeable local guide will lead you to the best-preserved prints and provide insights into the creatures they once belonged to. The day concludes back in Torotoro for a big meal and some down time in the evening. 



 

Day 7: Torotoro's Dinosaur Prints | Cochabamba

Another fascinating day of exploration in Torotoro awaits, with some of the highlights of the National Park on the list to visit. Start off by exploring the locations that have earned the national park the nickname "Bolivia's Jurassic Park,"  heading to a natural amphitheater, formed by the elements, and marvel at the largest footprints ever found in the region. The giant prints are believed to have belonged to a Titanosaurus, each measuring 36 meters (118 ft) in length. Following time to observe these huge prints, a short walk leads to a vantage point overlooking Torotoro Canyon, offering a bird's eye view of its depths. The canyon is home to the endangered Red Headed Macaw, and if lucky, it may be possible to spot this bird in it's natural habitat.

Descending via natural stairs formed in the canyon wall, we'll venture towards the canyon floor, encountering changing vegetation until we reach the exquisite "El Vergel" waterfall. Here, amidst the serene surroundings, you can indulge in a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters flowing from underground caves.
Today's adventure will conclude with a visit to the famous dinosaur footprints near the village of Torotoro, where numerous well-preserved tracks of both prehistoric herbivores and carnivores can be observed. After working up an appetite, savor a typical local dish in Torotoro before starting the trip towards Cochabamba.
 

Day 8: Flight to Uyuni | Salt Flats Adventure

This morning, prepare to be back at the airport for your continuing flight to Uyuni. Undoubtedly, the Uyuni Salt Lake stands as one of the most surreal landscapes around the world, being the largest salt flat that can even be spotted from space. Exploring this extraordinary empty white landscape is an unforgettable experience and a must-do while in Bolivia.

The first stop once you arrive is Colchani. Here, observe the factories and witness the traditional method of table salt production. You'll also see the "pyramids of salt" and "eyes of salt", large holes in the endless salt flat. Next stop is a visit to the old salt hotel and time to take unique pictures on the salt flats. Inca Huasi Island follows next, an island in the salt flats breaking up the endless sea of white. Here explore caves and towering cacti ranging from 8 to 10 meters in height, and enjoy the unique contrasting landscapes between the island and the salt flats all around.

After witnessing the incredible sunset from the flats, return to the hotel for a rest and to refuel before heading out for a late night stargazing activity. The vast night sky offers a visually stunning scene, with stars twinkling against the backdrop of salt. The ethereal beauty of the surroundings makes this place one of the top stargazing destinations worldwide. You'll spend the night in Colchani, nestled within the Salt Flats.

Day 9: Laguna Colorada & Stone Tree

After an early breakfast, set off in the 4WD transport vehicle towards Volcan Ollague. Later, explore the vibrantly colored lagoons Cañapa, Hedionda, Chaircota, and Honda, all of which are known habitats for pink flamingos and various other bird species. Continue on to the Siloli Desert to see Bolivia's iconic Stone Tree, a uniquely shaped rock formation formed by wind erosion over millions of years. Enjoy the stark contrasts and colors of the desert, compared to yesterday's salt flat adventure. Finally, you'll reach the Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), one of the day's highlights and one of Bolivia's most incredible natural wonders. The water in Laguna Colorada will change colors from deep red to dark blue throughout the day and is continuously dotted by three of the world's six species of flamingos. It is a photographers paradise, so be sure to have the camera ready for this experience. You'll spend the night tucked into a cozy lodge in the desert after today's full day.

Day 10: Green Lagoon & Valley of Rocks | Return to Uyuni

This morning, head towards a geothermal area known as "Sol de Mañana" (Sun of the Morning), where you'll encounter geysers and marvel at sulfur vapors, thermal water emissions, and mini fumaroles. From this active geothermal area, continue on to find a thermal pond where you can enjoy a delightful and warm open-air soak. after sufficiently relaxing in the thermal pond, venture into the Dali desert, an extremely barren landscape peppered with strange rock formations resembling the surrealist paintings of Salvador Dali.

Next stop is  Laguna Verde (Green Lake), not far form the Chilean border, where it is possible to witness the mesmerizing changes in its vibrant green colors due to the wind and high mineral content. Laguna Verde is stunning alone, but is further enhanced by a breathtaking view of the perfectly conical Licancabur volcano. On the way back to Uyuni, make a stop at the famous Valley of Rocks to observe the unique and wild rock formations that appear throught this 10 mile stretch of desert. Formations resembling animals, manmade objects, and even trees in a forest have been spotted. Make sure a camera is accessible for this detour to capture some truly otherworldly scenes. 
Spend the night back in Uyuni tonight and prepare to head on to the next destination tomorrow.

Day 11: Potosíe: Choose your Adventure Day

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the bus station to catch a bus to Potosí. The 200-km journey passes by seamlessly, offering magnificent landscapes along the way. In Potosí, visit the silver mines and gain insights into the working conditions of the city's mineral extraction industry. Hike up to the base of Cerro Rico Mountain, where millions of tons of silver were mined and sent to Spain during the 17th century. Experience the excitement of the local myths and witness the hard work of the local people.

If preferred, instead of the mining and history excursion, opt for a city tour in Potosí. This tour includes a visit to the famous Mint House, which is one of Potosí's main attractions. 

Day 12: Sucre City Tour

In the morning, you'll be transported privately to Sucre. Sucre, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, serves as the historical capital of Bolivia. It's also known as the White City because most of the colonial buildings in the city center are whitewashed. Your guided tour will include visits to several landmarks, including the House of Liberty, La Recoleta museum, San Lázaro church, the courtyard of the Universidad Mayor de San Francisco Xavier, and the Convent of San Felipe Nery. From the convent's terraces, enjoy panoramic views of the city and more. 

Day 13: Flight to La Paz (or Santa Cruz) | Free Afternoon

This morning, take an early flight to La Paz (or Santa Cruz depending on flight routing). Upon arrival at the airport, receive a warm welcome and be transferred to your hotel. You'll have the final afternoon of your trip free to explore at your leisure. 

Day 14: Transfer to the airport

  • 1 Breakfast
In the morning after breakfast, join a transfer to the airport and board your return flight home, or on to your next destination.

Note: Breakfast at hotels is usually available only after 07:00 am

Accommodations

Ecolodge La Estancia

Ecolodge La Estancia
Ecolodge La Estancia
Ecolodge La Estancia

Luna Salada Hotel

Hotel de Sal Luna Salada
Exterior View
Common Area

Hostal Colonial

11 clean rooms, opening to the courtyard
Spacious suite accommodations
Dining area

Ritz Apart Hotel

Ritz Apart Hotel
Comfortable seating area in your Grand Deluxe room at Ritz Apart
Executive suite at Ritz Apart

Tayka del Desierto

Hotel Tayka del Desierto Community
Common Area
Enjoy Salt lake at Hotel Tayka del Desierto

Mi pueblo Samary

Lounge
Patio
Mi Pueblo Samary at night

Cabañas Umajalanta - Torotoro

Catena Hotel

Jardines de Uyuni

Santiago de Okola Homestay

Staying with the Santiago de Okola community
Stay with the Santiago de Okola Community
Local teaching traditional weaving at Santiago de Okola

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$4,116 2-3 travelers

Notes

Select a Date
Included
  • 11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 6 Dinners
  • 13 Nights Accommodations
  • 12 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Entrance Fee(s) in Bolivia
  • Internal Flight: La Paz - Uyuni
  • Internal Flight: Uyuni - La Paz
  • Internal Flight: La Paz - Sucre 
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.

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This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
Lindsay Gompf

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