What to do in Bolivia? It is a question many people ask me. Bolivia is one of the most beautiful countries in South America. The snow-capped peaks of the Andes with its villages, the impressive volcanoes, salt flats and lagoons, but also the colonial cities and the indigenous population, make Bolivia one of my favorite places to visit in the region. Bolivia is a country that is less visited and known, compared to neighbouring Peru. In Bolivia you can experience the most beautiful scenic and cultural destinations all by yourself. In this travel guide I will take you to Bolivia and tell you everything you want to know about things to do, traditions and customs including tips for activities, the best time to travel, altitude sickness and safety. Hopefully Bolivia will get a place on your bucketlist and you will get the maximum out of your trip with my tips.
Bolivia is a country of extremes and contrasts. It has the highest navigable lake, the largest salt flat and the highest city in the world. If you thought a mountain was high, in Bolivia the snow-capped peaks of the Andes reach up to 6400m. Did you think the cliffs were steep? The road from La Paz to Coroico puts everything into perspective. Altitude sickness? With the highest city in the world (4070m), you know what that means and you really get to know your body well.
In 2003, as a new traveler, with few expectations, I came to Bolivia for the first time. I returned deeply impressed. Now, dozens of visits later, I have built a special bond with this country. And I look forward to a trip every time. In this article I will tell you more about what to do and see during a visit to Bolivia, what to look out for, I give you tips for destinations, sights, hotels, altitude sickness, safety and how to travel around.
In the next article you will find many tips for destinations, places to visit and things to do in Bolivia. To make it easy, I’ve created this little map to help you find the destinations that are mentioned.
Bolivia has different regions and a lot to offer in terms of nature, culture and adventure. To keep the article clear, I have kept the above division and you will find my tips for things to do in Bolivia per category.
Discover the best cities and its things to do in the next chapter of this Bolivia travel guide.
Contrary to what many people think, the official capital of Bolivia is Sucre. However, La Paz is often seen as the capital because it is the political center of the country. Sucre is located in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 2800 meters and is one of the most beautiful cities in Bolivia. It is also called the white city or city of spring. This is because of the many white houses and the pleasant climate. In Sucre in Bolivia you can walk for hours through the colonial center, past churches, museums, viewpoints and restaurants, while enjoying the nice atmosphere. The colonial center is even on the UNESCO World Heritage List and easy to explore on foot.
Sucre is also your startingpoint for tours in the Andes, such as the Bolivian Inca trail and the Sunday market of Tarabuco. Curious about what to do in Sucre Bolivia? In my Sucre travel guide you will find my tips for the best things to do in Sucre Bolivia.
Potosi is located at 4090 meters above sea level, making it the highest city in the world. It is therefore important to take it easy the first days and get used to the altitude. Potosi is known for its silver mines and tragic history. The city was once one of the richest cities in Latin America because of its large silver reserves, but was left empty after massive exploitation by the Spanish. Thousands of people died in the mines because of the terrible working conditions. The center of Potosi is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and worth exploring. In the old colonial center you can immerse yourself in the former wealth of the city. Important sights and things to do in Potosi Bolivia include monasteries, churches and La Casa de la Moneda, the former financial center, where coins were minted.
You can also visit the silver mines of Potosi under the guidance of a former miner. And then I am talking about a real mine, where people still work under harsh conditions. During a tour you will learn more about the history and the life of a miner. However, crawling through the narrow and dusty corridors is also an intense experience and not suitable for everyone. But if you dare, it is something that you will never forget. In any case, it is one of the things to do in Bolivia that should not be missing from this list. Curious? Read more about a visit to the mines of Potosí here.
Do you also want to visit the mines of Potosi? You can book a tour here.
La Paz is located in a valley, at an altitude of 3700 m, surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. It is often seen as the capital of Bolivia, because it is the political and commercial centre of the country. Because of the hustle and bustle and chaos, opinions about this city are divided. I love La Paz and a visit should not be missed in my opinion. La Paz is a city of contrasts, with slums on the mountain slopes, a commercial business centre, rich suburbs in the south. And everything is connected by the longest cable car system in the world, which serves as great public transportation.
In addition, people in traditional costumes alternate the street scene with people in suits and young people in trendy clothing. In La Paz Bolivia you can enjoy yourself for a few days, discover different neighbourhoods, experience cool things to do and nowadays even eat in fancy restaurants.
Curious about what to do in La Paz Bolivia? In my La Paz travel guide you will find my tips for the best things to do in Sucre Bolivia. You can book your tours here.
Bolivia has so many scenic destinations to include in your itinerary. These are my tips for the best places to visit and things to do in Bolivia when you are looking for nature.
The Uyuni salt flat is one of the largest salt flats in the world and one of the most spectaculair places to visit in Bolivia. This immense white salt flat, together with the beautiful clear blue sky, is a view that you will never forget. The salt flat, called Salar de Uyuni, is best explored by jeep, where you drive on the salt flats for hours, visit special rock formations, with ancient cacti and learn about local salt production in small villages.
You can also opt for a multi-day tour, where you also visit the lagoons, flamingos and geysers. The town of Uyuni is the gateway to both the salt flats and lagoons. In the next travel guide you will find everything you want to know about visiting the salt flats of Bolivia. Curious about tours on the salt flats of Bolivia? Here you will find an overview.
Ever wondered how it would be to stay in a hotel made of salt? These are hotels where the walls and much of the interior are made of pressed salt blocks. Salar de Uyuni is the only place in the world where you can do this and you don’t want to miss it. Salthotel Luna Salada is located on the edge of the salt flats and is not only one of the most luxurious hotels in the region, it is also the perfect base for exploring the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia.
As soon as you enter Luna Salada, you will be amazed. At the reception you will walk through grains of salt, the walls and sculptures are made of salt and beautiful decorations are everywhere. The rooms are comfortable, stylish and fully equipped. You can also dine in the panorama restaurant, relax in the spa and enjoy the most beautiful sunsets over the salt flats of Bolivia. Curious? In the next travel guide I will tell you more about salt hotel Luna Salada in Uyuni Bolivia.
Do you want to spend the night in salt hotel Luna Salada Uyuni Bolivia? You can find the latest prices and availability here.
The journey through the Eduardo Avaroa National Park in Bolivia is surreal and is one of the top things to do in the country. The beauty and power of nature that you encounter here is truly overwhelming. A multi-day jeep tour takes you past natural wonders such as Valle de Las Rocas, Laguna Verde, Geyser Sol de Manana, Laguna Blanca, Laguna Colorado and countless flamingos. You drive for hours across the highlands of Bolivia and along the way you sleep in small villages, somtimes at local peoples home. It is also possible to finish your tour in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. I highly recommend this if you are planning to visit Chile as well.
Keep in mind that it is important to travel with a reliable company that puts safety and comfort first, as you don’t want to get in trouble in this area. You can book a tour here. And please bring lots of warm clothes. It can take be extremely cold during the night, especially in winter (July and August). This tip is coming from an experienced traveler in this area of Bolivia.
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, with an altitude of almost 3900 meters. It is part of both Bolivia and Peru and has a surface area of around 9000 km². A boat trip on Lake Titicaca is something that should not be missing from this list of best things to do in Bolivia. The light and colors here are so beautiful, due to the altitude and clear blue sky. Boats leave from Copacabana in Bolivia. You can choose a day tour from La Paz or spend some time on Isla del Sol.
Looking for tours to Copacabana and Isla del Sol in Bolivia? This is an overview.
This island of the sun, is located on Lake Titicaca, where it feels like you are going back in time. People here still live entirely from agriculture and fishing. You can take nice walks on the island with a 360 degree view of Lake Titicaca and the snow-capped Andes mountain peaks. There are also small remains of Inca ruins to admire. It is nice to spend the night in one of the villages, such as Yumani. The accommodations on Isla del Sol are simple, but the environment makes up for this. Also try the meal Apthapi, small local dishes that together form a meal. Apthapi consists of potatoes, chicken, meat, egg and trucha, the trout from the lake
Isla del Sol is a 1.5 hours trip by boat from Copacabana in Bolivia. Curious? Read more about things to do in Copacabana Bolivia in the next travel guide.
This is one of the most impressive places to visit in Bolivia. The altiplano is the high plateau of Bolivia, with altitudes around 4000 meters above sea level. It is barren and bleak, but the views of the vast plains and snowy peaks are fascinating. Along the way you will encounter herds of llamas, alpacas and vicuñas, the llama’s little sister. Despite the clear blue sky and bright sun, it is still often cold, so it is recommended to bring warm clothes. One of the most beautiful road trips across the high plains is the trip from Potosí to Uyuni. You can take this trip with a local bus or book private transportation. Traveling this road by private transportation is one of the best things to do in Bolivia, if you want to get off and take pictures along the way.
Looking for some adventure? Bolivia has it all. These are my tips for adventurous tours and things to do in Bolivia.
“Experience the most dangerous road in the world” and “Cycle the Death Road”: You will see it at every travel agency in La Paz. In Bolivia you can take a mountain bike tour on one of the most dangerous roads in the world. And that’s because of the crazy steep cliffs you find here. Today, the route is only available for bikers wich makes it less scary. This is different to many years ago, when this trail was an important freight route and cars and trucks regularly crashed into the ravines. In my opinion, it is the amazing landscape and view that make it one of the best things to do in Bolivia.
You start early in the morning in the snow and arrive into a tropical environment in the afternoon. At the end of the day you can choose to travel back by bus to La Paz or stay overnight in Coroico village.
It is important to set out with a reliable organization, so that you are sure of the right bikes and professional guides. Also, it is important to take your time and be safe during this trip. You can book a tour here.
Peru is known for its Inca trail to Machu Picchu. But Bolivia also has an Inca trail and the advantage of this Bolivian trail is that you can easily do it in one day. The route is also less hard than the multi-day Peruvian trek. The Chataquila – Chaunaca trail is five and a half kilometers long and completely downhill. Depending on your pace, this will take you two to three hours. You walk on original Inca paths and enjoy amazing views of the Andes mountains along the way. Curious? In the next travel guide you can read everything you want to know about the Inca trail in Bolivia.
The famous Inca network of roads is almost 30,000 kilometers long and runs through Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia and Peru. The Inca trail in Bolivia is one of the top tours and things to do from Sucre Bolivia. Do you also want to hike the Bolivian Inca trail? You can book a day trip from Sucre here.
Are you a real adventurer and in good physical shape? Then I promise you that a hike to the 6080m summit of Huayna Potosi will be the trip of a lifetime. From the top of this mountain, you have an indescribably view over the Andes mountain range, which reaches the Amazon basin and Lake Titicaca. Something that you can normally only see from the air. But it is not easy to get here.
This hike is best done from La Paz. The most accessible route is via the Zongo pass and consists of two parts. On the first day you walk from 4764 meters altitude to 5200 meters (the Campo Argentino) in a few hours. This is where you spend the night. Although, not a relaxed night because you leave for the top between 00.00 and 03.00 AM. This is the hardest part because it is dark and the trail consists only of ice and snow. With crampons and an ice axe you slowly pull yourself forward and climb a 45 degree steep ice wall. It is a difficult hike of between four and six hours. Once at the top, you know why you did it, because the views are unbelievable.
You can choose from a two or three day hike. A three day hike is recommended, if you have no climbing experience. There will be a training afternoon included, wich is important to get the most out of your trip and actually reach the top. The best time to make this trip is between May and September, when the days are generally sunny. However, it can snow at any time of the year. Make sure you make this tour with a professional tour operator, offering you the right equipment and guides. You can book a tour here.
Keep in mind: This tour is definitely not for everyone. Many hikers do not even make it halfway. It is also important to get used to the altitude in La Paz, for a few days, before even thinking about this tour.
Bolivia has the highest percentage of indigenous people in Latin America. There are different groups, such as the Quechua (descendants of the Incas), Aymara (from the highlands) and the Guaraní (from the lowlands). They all have their own language, beliefs and traditions. And there is nothing more interesting than learning about these different cultures during your stay in Bolivia. Countless Bolivian people proudly walk around in traditional costumes, with wide colored skirts, embroidered ponchos and bowler hats. This creates a beautiful street scene. The patterns, combination of colors and type of hat is used to recognize the region a person is coming from.
Indigenous peoples of the Bolivian highlands have their own beliefs and live closely with nature. The Inti (the sun) and Pachamana (Mother Earth) play an important role in daily life and are honored by ceremonies, rituals and sacrifices. There are also many superstitions and ceremonies, performed by the shamans and yatiris, known for their medicinal knowledge and able to be in contact with the gods. Rituals, such as offering lama fetuses and reading coca leaves, can help you cleanse your mind or predict the future. In La Paz and el Alto there are famous witch markets, where you will encounter many of these shamans, traditional doctors and offerings.
It is interesting to see how these indigenous beliefs have merged with Christianity, what was introduced during the Spanish empire, also known as syncretism. In many churches, you often see the Pachamama (Mother Earth) depicted together with the Virgin Mary, a guinea pig in a painting of “the last supper”, or Christian statues in the shape of a volcano (typical for the Andes culture). This way, the Indian population has found a way to honor both beliefs together.
Tarabuco is known for its weaving, also called the Tarabuco style. Every Sunday, this small mountain village is the setting for a colorful market. Local people come from far and wide to sell their goods here. From souvenirs, electronics to weaving, vegetables, fruit and cattle. Men wear black helmet-like headgear with decorations, combined with a striped poncho and women wear wide skirts. You can buy beautiful souvenirs around the central square. But the real reason for a visit to this market is to observe local life. Don’t forget to take a look at the cattle market, all the way at the back of the village.
Tarabuco is a 1.5 hour drive from Sucre and makes for a nice sunday trip. Curious about what to do in Sucre Bolivia? In my Sucre travel guide you will find my tips for the best things to do in Sucre Bolivia.
Do you want to learn more about the history of Bolivia? Then make sure you check out my tips below.
For the history and archaeology lover, a visit to the archaeological site of Tiwanaku is a must. Tiwanaku, also known as Tiahuanaco, is located in the southern area of Lake Titicaca. It was the capital of the Tiwanaku empire, and stretched over Peru, Bolivia, Northern Argentina and part of Chile. Today you can visit the archaeological remains of the city. And even though there is little left, a visit is worth it to learn more about the history of this once so powerful empire. You can observe the ancient sun gate, the impressive monoliths and the temple with the 175 carved heads.
Do you want to visit Tiwanaku from La Paz? You can book a day tour here.
Tiwanaku is located 1.5 to 2 hours drive from La Paz in Bolivia and is one of the top archaeological sites and things to do in the country. Curious? In the next travel guide you can read more about the Tiwanaku culture in Bolivia and a visit.
If you look on the map, you will find a lot of greenery in Bolivia, the Amazon. Discover my tips for visiting the Amazon in Bolivia.
Rurrenabaque is located on the edge of the Parque Nacional Madidi, north of La Paz. It is one of the top places to visit in Bolivia for trips to the Amazon and pampas. A visit to Rurrenabaque requires several days, as most tours last at least 3 days. A tour through the pampas takes you to the tropical Savannah, where you will encounter caimans, anacondas, monkeys and tropical birds. You sail by boat through the area and spend the night in jungle lodges. A jungle adventure leads through the Parque Nacional Madidi, the home of the jaguar. During a tour you will learn about medicinal plants, fishing, make jungle hikes and visit local villages.
Looking for places to stay and visit Rurrenabaque Bolivia? This is an overview.
The Southern part of Bolivia is less visited but very interesting if you have more time. These are my tips for exploring Southern Bolivia.
Tupiza is located in the south of Bolivia, at an altitude of 2950 meters above sea level and shows a completely different side of the country. You will find yourself in a desert area, surrounded by cactuses. It is one of the best places to visit in Bolivia if you want to go horseback riding. A nice day trip is the triathlon, where you go for a horseback ride, hike and bicycle tour, in one day. It is also possible to go on a multi-day horseback riding tour and spend the night in small villages along the road.
Looking for places to stay and visit in Tupiza Bolivia? This is an overview.
Did you know that Che Guevara spent his last days in Bolivia? Che Guevara came to Bolivia to further spread the revolution in 1966. In 1967, he was shot by the Bolivian army in La Higuera. That’s why La Higuera and Camiri have become small places of pilgrimage, for those interested in Che Guevara. Today you can visit these remote villages and explore some important places of Che Guevara’s life. The place where he lived, got arrested and shot are the most important sights. The village is tiny and apart from the historical events that took place, there is not much do. I recommend to only travel to this area if you have a lot of time. It is for sure one of the things to do in Bolivia, if you are interested in Che Guevara
Curious about Che Guavara and his life? Make sure to read the book The Motorcycle Diaries. You can order the book here.
February is a special month in Bolivia. Find out why in the next chapter of my Bolivia travel guide.
What to do in Bolivia in February? Oruro is a large industrial city in Bolivia and there is not much to do during the year. Only once a year, in February, this city is the most popular of the country with around half a million visitors and you won’t find any hotel room. And that is because of El Carnaval de Oruro takes place, the largest carnival after Brazil. UNESCO has even declared this carnival a Cultural Heritage, because of the special mix between the ancient Andean traditions and Spanish colonial religions.
Ten days are filled with parades, musicians, dancers and amazing costumes. The Pilgrimage to the Socavón Sanctuary is the main parade and the central day of carnival. During a 20-hour procession, including 20,000 dancers, 150 bands and 10,000 musicians, different stories about Bolivia’s history are shown. Including the famous La Diablada, a dance battle between the good and bad. Joining this carnival in Oruro is definitely one of the top things to do in Bolivia.
Looking for tours in Boliivia? Viator is a great platform where you can easily search, compare, and book tours. This is an overview of my favorite Viator tours in Bolivia.
div data-vi-partner-id=P00085533 data-vi-widget-ref=W-c71694da-fc13-4767-8bc2-3573857ef691 >Are you planning a tour through beautiful Bolivia? Long distances between cities can be traveled by plane. Via Skyscanner you can easily search, compare and book a flight. In addition, all cities are easily accessible by public transport or shuttle services. But there are also numerous tours offered to cities and national parks.
Bolivia is also known as ’the Tibet of South America’ and that is for a reason. The temperatures are much lower than you might think. The best time to visit Bolivia is from May to October. Want to learn more about the climate in Bolivia. Read more a in the next Bolivia travel guide.
Altitude sickness is something very common to experience in Bolivia or any other Andes countries. You will be traveling at altitudes between 2500 and 4000 meters and your body might not be used to this. Due to the lower oxygen in the air, headaches, nausea, dizziness and shortness of breath are common complaints.
Although I have been at altitudes many times, I am always experiencing it during the first few days. I usually have a headache at the end of the day, what comes together with a strange oppressive feeling. Also I am always short of breath, during the slightest effort. I have to force myself to take it easy, pay attention to my breath and drink plenty of water. Usually the complaints disappear after a few days, because your body gets used to it. In some cases the symptoms can get worse and it is recommended to see a doctor. There is not much you can do avoid altitude sickness. However there are some things to keep in mind. There are my recommendations to prevent altitude sickness, as much as possible. Please note, this is not medical advice. Always get informed by doctors and experts before your trip.
It is important to take good care of your belongings in Bolivia, especially in big cities and crowded places. With the necessary caution and alertness, Bolivia is a wonderful country to travel through without problems. Read here some tips for a safe trip through Bolivia, and how to deal with demonstrations and road blocks
Looking for a travel insurance? World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Did you enjoy reading this travel guide with tips and things to do in Bolivia? Let me take you on a journey along the most beautiful destinations and places to visit in Bolivia. In the next articles you will find my Bolivia travel guides with lots of inspiration and tips.
This Bolivia travel guide with tips for places to visit may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our disclosures for more information.
Ben je geïnteresseerd in de wereld? Wil je reis inspiratie opdoen en een land en cultuur beter leren kennen? Reis mee met Passport The World!
Al meer dan twintig jaar reis ik als producent, reporter en gids, de wereld rond, op zoek naar de mooiste verhalen en reiservaringen. In Passport the World neem ik je mee naar bestemmingen in de natuur, langs steden en historische plaatsen, uitzichtpunten, ontmoetingen met de lokale bevolking, wandelingen en bijzondere tochten. Je vindt er reisinspiratie en tips om het maximale uit je reis te halen en een land en cultuur beter te leren kennen.
