Bolivia-7-day-itinerary

Bolivia Travel Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in La Paz

  • Arrival: Arrive at El Alto International Airport. Take a taxi or bus to your hotel.
  • Places to Go: Explore the city center, including Plaza Murillo and the Presidential Palace.
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can buy local handicrafts and try some traditional Bolivian food like salteñas.
    • Take a cable car ride to El Alto for panoramic views of La Paz.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for high altitude (La Paz is over 3,600 meters above sea level). Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the city center or Miraflores neighborhood.

Day 2: La Paz to Uyuni

  • Transportation: Take an early morning bus from La Paz to Uyuni (approximately 10 hours).
  • Places to Go: Explore the town of Uyuni and its surroundings.
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Salt Flats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Take a guided tour on the salt flats and see the famous “mirror” effect when it rains.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for long bus rides. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the journey.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Uyuni or at one of the many lodges around the Salt Flats.

Day 3: Uyuni Salt Flats

  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour to explore the salt flats and see the geological formations.
    • Visit the nearby Train Cemetery, a collection of old trains and locomotives.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for extreme weather conditions (heat, sun, wind). Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Uyuni or at one of the many lodges around the Salt Flats.

Day 4: Salar de Uyuni

  • Activities:
    • Spend another day exploring the salt flats and its surroundings.
    • Visit the nearby Laguna Colorada, a pink lake that’s home to various bird species.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for long bus rides. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the journey.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Uyuni or at one of the many lodges around the Salt Flats.

Day 5: Sucre

  • Transportation: Take a morning flight from Uyuni to Sucre (approximately 1 hour).
  • Places to Go: Explore the historic city center, including the Cathedral and Plaza de las Armas.
  • Activities:
    • Visit the National Museum of Bolivia, which showcases the country’s history and culture.
    • Take a guided tour to explore the nearby countryside.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for high altitude (Sucre is over 2,700 meters above sea level). Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Sucre or at one of the many lodges around the city.

Day 6: Sucre

  • Activities:
    • Visit the nearby town of Tarabuco, known for its traditional textiles and handicrafts.
    • Explore the nearby countryside, including the valleys and hills surrounding Sucre.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for high altitude. Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Sucre or at one of the many lodges around the city.

Day 7: Departure from La Paz

  • Transportation: Take a morning flight from Sucre back to La Paz (approximately 1 hour).
  • Activities:
    • Spend some time exploring La Paz before departing.
    • Visit any last-minute attractions or markets in the city center.
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for high altitude. Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.

Visa Requirements

Bolivia does not require a visa from most countries, including the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Check with your government’s website or consult with the Bolivian Embassy/Consulate in your home country for the latest requirements.

Health and Safety

  • Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for high altitude (La Paz is over 3,600 meters above sea level). Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.
  • Waterborne Illnesses: Take precautions against waterborne illnesses by drinking bottled or filtered water.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Use reputable taxi services or public transportation.

Transportation

  • Bus: The most affordable way to travel between cities is by bus. Reputable companies like Expreso and Tur-Bolivia offer comfortable and safe rides.
  • Flights: Flights are available for shorter distances, but can be expensive. Book in advance to save money.
  • Taxi: Use reputable taxi services or public transportation.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Stay at hostels or guesthouses that cost around $10-20 per night.
  • Mid-range: Stay at hotels or lodges that cost around $50-100 per night.
  • Luxury: Stay at high-end hotels or resorts that cost over $150 per night.

Food and Drink

  • Traditional Bolivian Cuisine: Try local specialties like salteñas, papa rellena, and humitas.
  • Street Food: Eat street food from reputable vendors to experience authentic flavors.
  • Bottled Water: Drink bottled or filtered water to stay safe.

This itinerary provides a good balance of culture, history, and adventure. Be prepared for high altitude and extreme weather conditions. Enjoy your trip to Bolivia!