Salar de Uyuni
Region: Potosí Department
Natural
A massive salt flat creating mirror-like reflections during rainy season, known as the "sky mirror"
Tourism in Bolivia
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Tiwanaku Ruins
Region: La Paz Department
Cultural Heritage
Pre-Columbian Tiwanaku civilization's religious city ruins
Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol
Region: La Paz Department
Natural
A large lake at 3,810m elevation, considered the birthplace of Inca mythology
Carnival of Oruro Venue
Region: Oruro City
Intangible Culture
Festival featuring diverse folk dances including the Devil Dance
Potosí Historic District and Cerro Rico Silver Mine
Region: Potosí City
Cultural Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage preserving the 16th-century world's largest silver mining city
Samaipata Fort
Region: Santa Cruz Department
Cultural Heritage
Massive rock carvings at the crossroads of Andean and Amazonian cultures
Noel Kempff Mercado National Park
Region: Santa Cruz Department
Natural Heritage
Biodiversity hotspot where tropical rainforest and savanna coexist
Death Road (Yungas Road)
Region: La Paz Department
Natural/Adventure
Popular mountain biking activity down the old cliffside road
Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon)
Region: La Paz outskirts
Natural
Eroded clay formations creating moon-like landscape
Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos
Region: Santa Cruz Department
Cultural Heritage
UNESCO World Heritage featuring wooden baroque churches and music culture
Suggested itineraries
Andean Highlands Highlights
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: La Paz Old Town, Lake Titicaca, Tiwanaku, Salar de Uyuni
A week-long journey starting with altitude acclimatization in La Paz, visiting mythological lakes and prehistoric ruins, culminating with salt flat sunsets and stargazing
Amazon and Mission Journey
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Santa Cruz City, Samaipata Fort, Chiquitos Missions, Noel Kempff National Park
A warm-climate route combining lowland baroque culture with living jungle
Travel tips
- Avoid strenuous activity on the first day in high altitudes near 4,000m; drink plenty of water
- During rainy season (December-March), waterproofing is essential for salt flat visits
- Long-distance bus travel often runs overnight; bring a sleeping bag for comfort
- Bargaining is expected at markets; start at half price with a smile
- Domestic flights cross significant altitude changes; prepare earplugs and candy
- Coca tea effectively prevents altitude sickness but may be prohibited for export in some regions
- Always ask permission before photographing, respecting indigenous religious beliefs
- Cash in Bolivianos is primary; card use limited in rural areas
- Bring hat and UV sunglasses for intense sun exposure
- Use taxis at night in areas with security concerns
- Pack both light and heavy layers for varying climates across states
- Tap water generally not potable; purchase bottled water
- Public Wi-Fi is often slow; local SIM cards recommended
- Allow schedule flexibility during holidays with frequent traffic restrictions
- Check for "Alpaca 100%" quality tags when buying alpaca products