With this Bolivia tour you will discover the wonders of this landlocked country. It is named after Simon Bolivar, who in 1825 helped the population win independence from Spain; a fascinating history you will discover during this journey. Travelers are captivated by the Andean culture and strong cultural identity of the country, from the beauty of the Uyuni salt desert to its enchanting landscapes. Don't forget your camera to capture this adventure, which over 7 days will let you discover memorable places such as La Paz, Uyuni, Potosi, and Sucre, some of the highest cities in the world. During your tour of this magical South American country, you'll visit the mysterious ruins of Tiwanaku – considered the oldest city in the world – and follow in the footsteps of intrepid explorers such as the Spanish conquistadors. The majestic Andes await you!
Upon your arrival in La Paz, you will be transferred to your hotel to drop off your luggage. After a short break, you'll take a walking tour of the city. The historic center of La Paz and Plaza Murillo feature stunning buildings and sights, particularly the Cathedral and the Iglesia San Francisco. The Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas houses old costumes, dioramas, colonial artifacts, and photographs illustrating the city's turbulent history. The Museo de Metales Preciosos (also known as the Gold Museum) holds an impressive collection of precious metals and pre-Columbian archaeological finds. The witches' market is of course full of witch doctors and women selling potions and mysterious brews, offering plenty of picturesque photo opportunities. Overnight in La Paz.
After breakfast, you'll set off on a visit to the pre-Columbian site of Tiwanaku, once home to the people of the same name. This complex was originally the capital of a vast empire that stretched into Chile and Peru. After this archaeological visit, return to La Paz to relax in the city.
Transfer to the airport and flight from La Paz to Uyuni to begin your adventure in the salt desert. The Salar de Uyuni is an enormous salt flat with breathtaking scenery, perfect for striking photographs. You'll also visit the abandoned locomotives and railcars in the so-called train cemetery and explore the first hotel made of salt. The tour continues with a visit to the Colchani salt refinery and ends at Isla Incahuasi, once an island in the middle of the salt flat, with coral-like formations dating back some 40,000 years, when this area was submerged underwater. Lunch is included during the excursion, with overnight in Uyuni.
After breakfast, departure by bus toward Potosí, one of the highest cities in the world, where you'll stay overnight.
Today you'll visit the National Mint (Casa de la Moneda) and tour the legendary Cerro Rico mine. At the end of this adventurous day, travel by bus to Sucre, where you'll spend the night.
After breakfast, city tour. You'll walk to La Recoleta and visit the Museo del Claustro and the Museo Charcas, spanning anthropological, colonial, and modern art. Casa de la Libertad is a national treasure. In this building the Republic was created in 1852, when the country signed the Bolivian declaration of independence. You'll also have the chance to shop and sample local cuisine during your free afternoon and last Bolivian evening.
The time has come to say goodbye before your flight back to La Paz.