Bolivia Travel Insights

5 Days in Bolivia - 4 Unique Itineraries

These 5-day itineraries offer a range of options for a short but sweet trip to Bolivia. It's a solid bet to focus your time and energy on La Paz and the dramatic landscapes that surround it, enjoying a cycling trip down Death Road. Or divide your time between La Paz and Lake Titicaca, learning about Andean history and indigenous culture while exploring the lake's islands by boat. One exciting itinerary leads you deep into the Bolivian Amazon, and another takes you across the border to Chile, combining time in the Atacama Desert with a few days exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats and the lagoons of Bolivia's high desert. Read on to learn more about your options.

Adventure in the Bolivian Amazon - 5 Days

Discover the Bolivian Amazon, where the mountains meet the jungle, on this 5-day adventure. You'll arrive in the rainforest on a canoe, visiting a community-run ecotourism project before going on a guided hike to spot monkeys and macaws in the wilderness. Look for jaguar tracks, frogs, tarantulas, and sharp-toothed caimans on a nocturnal walk, enjoy a traditional meal made by members of a local indigenous group, and fall asleep to the sounds of the rainforest. Then make the trip to La Paz to catch your flight out.

Bolivia in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It's still peak season in August in Bolivia, with plenty of blue skies and dry days that are ideal for tackling outdoor pursuits all over the country—from hikes in the footsteps of Incas in the Andes to jungle tours by boat in the Amazon. In the latter half of the month, temperatures begin to slowly creep up in the rainforest and the savanna, but it’s still nice and cool on the altiplano. The best digs are snapped up quickly during this popular month.

Bolivia in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The onset of spring in September marks the end of the peak season rush in Bolivia, so in many ways this is a fantastic month to visit, with largely dry days, warm weather and far fewer crowds. As the country edges into the less busy shoulder season, you should be able to snag some deals on tours and accommodation. While rising temperatures have taken the bitter edge off nights on the altiplano, this is the hottest time of year in the Amazon.

Bolivia in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is the height of spring in Bolivia. If you want to sidestep the crowds of winter, this is a fantastic time to visit, as there is still plenty of dry, sunny weather everywhere from the depths of the Amazon to the heights of the Andes. Rains are slowly but steadily increasing, so come prepared for the odd downpour. Shoulder-season benefits are many, especially when it comes to scoring deals on tours, outdoor activities, and accommodation. And the drop in visitor numbers is a blessing at big-hitters like the Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca.

Bolivia in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Summer is swiftly approaching and bringing with it rainy days to much of Bolivia in November, though nothing like what will fall in the coming months. Come now and you'll experience the country at its tranquil best, with few crowds at major sights and milder weather up on the altiplano, where the showers are slowly transforming the parched highlands into a lush carpet of wildflowers.

Bolivia in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Christmas might be around the corner (along with several other interesting festivals) but the weather in Bolivia this month is surprisingly good. In fact, of all the low season months from November through March, December is arguably best for a visit, with lower rainfall, higher temperatures, and more overall sun. And if the rain does come down, Bolivia has a phenomenal culture to tap into, which can usually be done indoors: at one of La Paz's standout museums, for example, or in buoyant cities like Sucre or Tarija.

Bolivia in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is peak season in Bolivia, with warm, bright, largely sunny days, though things can feel cooler up on the altiplano. Such reliable weather makes this a brilliant month to come for outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking in the Andes to expeditions into the wildlife-rich Amazon. That said, this is also one of the busiest months, ruling out special deals on accommodation and tours. Plan ahead if you want to visit during this popular time.

Bolivia in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

One of the driest, brightest months of the year, June ushers in the start of peak season. But with the biggest crowds still yet to arrive, this a terrific time for snapping up the few remaining deals on tours and accommodation. Cooler temperatures everywhere from the Andes to the Amazon also mean this is a great month for all manner of outdoor pursuits, but you’ll want to pack layers for the chilly nights. The country celebrates some memorable festivals now too, such as the winter solstice celebrations at Tiwanaku.

Bolivia in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The rain steadily eases up in May, bringing with it drier days, brighter skies and refreshingly cooler temperatures. This is a great time to visit all regions of the country, from the heights of the Andes to the depths of the rainforest. And if you’re up for an outdoor adventure, go now for perfect conditions for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and more. Just bear in mind that you won’t be the only one traveling—the dry season marks the start of peak season in Bolivia.

Bolivia in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The end of the wettest weather brings travelers in greater numbers than have been seen in Bolivia for some months. Suddenly, visitors are eyeing up Bolivia's phenomenal outdoor activities, particularly its hiking, and crowds of both international and national holiday-makers descend on the country for that famous Latin American celebration of Semana Santa, or Holy Week. As the rain decreases, so it begins to get both sunnier and cooler in most areas.

Bolivia in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It might still be a wash-out of a month in much of Bolivia, with rain especially heavy in the Amazon, but in the Andes and Savanna it's slowly drying up. Sun is definitely on the horizon, if not already here in places, with average daily temperatures in much of the savanna only a degree or two off their annual highs. It's an important time for harvesting coca (in the Andes and parts of the Amazon) and grapes (in the Savanna)—plus, Carnival can also fall at the beginning of March, as can Holy Week.

Bolivia in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The rainfall slackens off a little bit in February compared to the last couple of months, but this remains a decidedly drippy time of year in the majority of the country. Temperatures are almost at their annual peaks in the rainforest and much of the savanna, while the Andes are decidedly chilly. However, one big party this month brightens things up, and that's Carnival time. There are some truly spectacular celebrations across Bolivia for this at the end of the month.

Bolivia in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The rain comes down heavily in January across the majority of Bolivia, despite temperatures in some regions such as the rainforest being at their annual high. There is still plenty to see and do. This is a brilliant time to explore Bolivia's big cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Santa Cruz, including a glut of cultural attractions that visitors in better weather pass over. The southeastern savanna is the most agreeable region now, and though parts of the Andes and rainforest inaccessible due to rain, swelling water levels make for excellent white water rafting.

Trekking in the Bolivian Andes & Amazon - 14 Days

Adventurous travelers interested in Bolivia's indigenous communities will love this two-week tour through the country. You'll start in the high-altitude metropolis of La Paz before heading to Lake Titicaca. Boating around the lake's islands, you'll come into contact with native people who will teach you about their ways of life. Continue on a guided trek through some of the most beautiful villages in the Bolivian Andes, then head to Apolobamba National Park in the Amazon rainforest for canoeing, hiking, and birdwatching. You'll have a free day back in La Paz to shop, sightsee, and enjoy Bolivian street food before the trip ends.

Explore the Bolivian Highlands - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary balances excursions into the remote highlands with multiple days of activities in Bolivia's most exciting cities. Begin in the modern, high-altitude city of La Paz before taking a private car to the northern shore of the Uyuni Salt Flats, where you will hike the Tunupa Volcano and learn about indigenous Andean cultures. After exploring the flats, you will continue on to Sucre to tour its colonial-era streets, visit its impressive museums, and learn about Bolivian independence before enjoying a final free day in the capital.

Explore Bolivia: La Paz & Great Uyuni Salt Flats - 7 Days

Perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of the Bolivian highlands, this weeklong itinerary combines excursions and hikes with the urban comforts of La Paz. Begin your trip with a walking tour of the high-altitude city before being transported to the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Flats. You'll be able to enjoy remote sites like the Tunupa Volcano, Incahuasi Island, and colored lagoons filled with flamingoes before heading back to La Paz to sample more Andean cuisine and stroll through markets filled with art and textiles.

Bolivian Glamping Experience: Uyuni Salt Flats - 4 Days

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the landscapes of southern Bolivia, glamping in a glass dome camp in the heart of the Uyuni Salt Flats. Alpacas, llamas, and flamingos are the only neighbors you will see for miles, and you can wake up every day to breathtaking scenery. Each day, you'll have several activities to choose from, including extreme sports, cultural excursions, and archaeological visits.

Highlights of Bolivia - 10 Days

Perfect for travelers looking to explore Bolivia's bustling cities and UNESCO-designated natural wonders, this 10-day itinerary combines cultural experiences with outdoor adventures. Discover the colonial gem of Sucre, visit a historic hacienda that dates back to the 1550s, and enjoy the colorful lagoons of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. Then continue onward to see the magical Uyuni Salt Flats, Siloli Desert, and beautiful Lake Titicaca before finishing the trip in La Paz.

Explore the Bolivian Amazon - 7 Days

Nature-loving travelers won't want to miss this weeklong excursion into the Bolivian Amazon. Begin your itinerary in the vibrant city of La Paz before heading to protected parks in the rainforest where you will meet indigenous guides and go birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing. End your trip with a river safari and a little relaxation at your eco-friendly lodge before your departure.

Active Adventure in Bolivia - 7 Days

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, this 7-day itinerary showcases Bolivia's best national park as well as two of its most culturally vibrant cities. You'll begin with guided tours of Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Cochabamba before heading to Torotoro National Park for three days of caving, hiking, and swimming underneath waterfalls. Finish the trip in Bolivia's exciting capital of La Paz.

Bolivian Highlands: La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Uyuni & Eduardo Avaroa - 8 Days

This unique journey takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Central Andes in Bolivia. You'll begin by exploring the sprawling twin cities of La Paz and El Alto, before setting out to sacred Lake Titicaca. Then, you'll get to see the great Uyuni Salt Flats and witness the many natural wonders of the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve like geysers, colored lakes, and a surrealist desert.

Explore La Paz & Lake Titicaca - 5 Days

For a quick introduction to the culture and hospitality of Bolivia, try this 5-day itinerary. An accessible adventure that balances easy hiking excursions with immersive activities led by locals, the trip starts on the shores of Lake Titicaca. You'll explore indigenous history in the village of Copacabana, then learn about local ways of life while staying with a host family in the community of Santiago de Okola. Finish with a couple of days exploring the bustling capital of La Paz, riding high over the city in a cable car and sampling Andean street snacks on a food tour.

Jesuit Missions of Bolivia - 5 Days

This short itinerary is perfect for travelers who are interested in Bolivia's religious sites and colonial history. Begin your trip with a walking tour of the cosmopolitan, historic city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra before continuing on to tour the missions of Santa Cruz, San Javier, and Concepción. End your adventure with a day in Biocentro Güembé, a sprawling nature resort with a butterfly observatory and tropical bird aviary. 

Highlights of Bolivia - 7 Days

If you're interested in traveling to Bolivia's charming cities and most striking natural attractions, this weeklong itinerary around the country's highlights is perfect for you. See colonial architecture and learn about indigenous history in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Sucre, and Potosí before enjoying an excursion to the famous Uyuni Salt Flats and hiking to the Tunupa Volcano. At the end of your trip, you'll have a full day to spend in colorful La Paz.

Discover the Atacama Desert & the Uyuni Salt Flats - 5 Days

This action-packed itinerary takes travelers to awe-inspiring natural attractions in two different countries. Start in Chile, exploring the massive sand dunes and otherworldly rock formations of the Atacama Desert. Then cross the border into Bolivia, where you'll spot flamingos in the wild in the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, go for a dip in natural springs, and gaze out at the ethereal white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats.

Urban Adventure in La Paz - 5 Days

From a cable car ride high above La Paz to a bike ride on the infamous Death Road, this invigorating five-day trip is packed with adventures. The itinerary focuses on the most exciting experiences in and around Bolivia's capital city. Start your trip with sightseeing at the UNESCO-listed ruins of Tiwanaku, then hurtle downhill through the Yungas cloud forest on a cycling tour. You'll visit an Afro-Bolivian community to learn about coca leaf farming before returning to the city to sample traditional Andean cuisine.

Discover Bolivia's Landscapes - 10 Days

Take in the glorious natural landscapes of Bolivia on this 10-day trip.  From the otherworldly rock formations of the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to massive dinosaur footprints in Torotoro National Park, and from the white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats to underground caves that stretch on for miles, there's so much to explore. Bring your hiking boots and make sure your camera battery is charged up — on this active adventure, you'll be overwhelmed with once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.

Bolivian Landscapes, Cultures, and Communities: Cochabamba, Torotoro, Uyuni, La Paz, & More - 14 Days

Take in the ever-changing landscapes and culture of Bolivia on this two-week itinerary. You'll start with a trip out to Samaipata, an archaeological and geological site in the Andean midlands. Explore the city in Cochabamba, then return to nature with canyon treks and caverns in Torotoro National Park. Scope out historical architecture in Sucre and Cayara before you finish your trip with the famed Uyuni Salt Flats.

Highlights of Bolivia & Chile - 14 Days

This exciting itinerary will take you through some of South America's most beautiful landscapes. You'll begin the journey in Santa Cruz and the historic settlement of Samaipata, then continue to high-altitude La Paz. Then enjoy a week of exploring natural wonders, traveling to the Uyuni Salt Flats, seeing flamingos in the wild at Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, and crossing over to Chile to see the otherworldly Atacama Desert.

Trekking in Bolivia: La Paz & Cordillera Real - 6 Days

Challenge yourself on one Bolivia's most epic treks through the Cordillera Real, which boasts incredible landscapes. The journey will start with two exciting days in La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital and the highest capital in the world. You will get ready for trekking through the mountains by walking down from the top to the bottom of the city, hitting some exciting landmarks and local markets. You will then spend the next three days on an alternative Inca Trail. Enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery and pass through small towns that will give you a feel of Bolivia's Andean culture.

Adventure in the Bolivian Highlands - 14 Days

This two-week trip takes you to the heart of highland Bolivia. Due to its rugged landscapes, remote location, and the well-defined character of its indigenous communities, it's a place that has long resisted outside influences. You'll have plenty of chances to interact with Quechua and Aymara natives as you tour the famous silver mine of Potosí, explore the islands of Lake Titicaca, spot flamingos standing in colorful lagoons, and walk around the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Salt Flats of Uyuni.

Explore Bolivia: Andes to Amazon - 18 Days

With glaciated peaks over 21,000 feet high and mighty rivers rolling through the largest forest on earth, Bolivia is a land of superlatives. Explore diverse extremes from the Andes to the Amazon on this complete 18-day itinerary, starting in one capital, Sucre, and ending in the next, La Paz. Along the way, you'll visit high-altitude lakes and bubbling mud and geysers in Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, herd llamas and farm quinoa in Santiago K, trek Isla de la Luna on Lake Titicaca, and seek out exotic wildlife in the Amazon's Madidi National Park.

Adventure in the Bolivian Amazon - 6 Days

In the Bolivian Amazon, the mountains meet the jungle. In the span a few miles, the icy peaks drop down to green tundra, which gives way to dwarf cloud forest, alive with the vibrations of hummingbirds. A little lower the trees are taller, sheltering ferns, orchids and birds, and lower still mighty rivers wind through massive forests teeming with a greater diversity of life than almost anywhere else on the planet.  This trip is about exploring the richness of the birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects in this area, and connecting to the people who have coexisted with and formed part of this life for centuries. But this trip also about protection. The ecosystems are under threat from logging, hydroelectric projects and mining. The tribes in this jungle are dwindling and losing their traditions as the outside world closes in. But through these sustainable tourism projects, which are designed, run, and owned by natives, you can help affirm the value of the natural and human inhabitants of these areas and slow the advance of destruction.

Uyuni Salt Flats - 3 Days

This incredible expedition takes you to and through some of the world's most extreme —and beautiful—landscapes. Start in the dusty town of Uyuni, visit the famous train cemetery, and stay in a hotel made mostly from salt. Spot unique Andean wildlife in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve and experience the wild Mars-like landscapes of the Salvador Dali Desert.

Apolobamba National Park Trek- 3 Days

Trek for 3 days in the Apolobamba National Park between villages on a "PachaTrek" to experience life and nature in the high Andes. Accompanied by your local guide, learn about traditional medicine, sacred sites, and indigenous farming methods. Stay the night in comfortable lodges and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals.

Traveler Interview: Heritage Trip to Bolivia

Adopted as an infant, kimkim traveler Casi Brough always dreamed of going back to her birth country of Bolivia. So when she and her husband Tim finally got the chance, they wanted to see it all. From planning the itinerary to hanging out on the famous Salt Flats, read all about Casi's two-week adventure below—and get inspired by her gorgeous photos, which will have you booking a flight to Bolivia in no time.

Explore the Farms and Markets of Bolivia's Andes - 12 Days

Welcome to the Central Andes! On this 12-day adventure, you'll get to know the rich farming history of Bolivia's highlands as you visit lively markets, speak with local farmers and their families, and enjoy the traditional flavors and foods of the region. Dividing your time between the countryside and the city, you'll discover La Paz and Lake Titicaca, the Uyuni Salt Flats, and eastern farming valleys on this best-of-Bolivia trip.

Bolivian Cities, Cloud Forests & Salt Flats - 9 Days

Immerse yourself in Bolivia's diverse beauty as you travel from the city to the cloud forest to the desert on this 9-day trip. Begin and end your tour in the world's highest capital city, and discover its many cultural treasures. Explore otherworldly red lakes and salt flats, engage with local communities, and travel on the exhilarating Death Road.

Toro Toro National Park Adventure - 3 Days

Get off the beaten track with a visit to Bolivia's Toro Toro National Park — a small, beautiful park known for its caves, canyons, and dinosaur footprints! Explore ancient caverns, hike deep into verdant canyons, and seek out cave paintings, giant iguana-shaped rocks, and dinosaur footprints preserved in the stone.

Andes-to-Amazon Adventure Expedition - 6 Days

From the heights of the majestic Andes to the depths of the Amazon jungle, this tour will guide you through Bolivia's most beautiful extremes. Get ready to explore the landscape by bicycle, jungle boat, and on foot — and don't forget your camera! The scenery is unlike anything you've ever seen before.

Explore the Andes & the Amazon Rainforest - 10 Days

From the world's highest capital in the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon rainforest, Bolivia's natural wonders enchant visitors. Explore the hilly streets of La Paz, visit a community-based agritourism village run by indigenous artisans, and walk along the shores of Lake Titicaca, the second-largest lake in South America. Then float down a jungle river on a log raft and see a wide variety of wildlife in the Bolivian Amazon, including capybaras, macaws, caimans, anacondas, and the unique pink river dolphin.

Bolivia & Atacama, Chile – 12 Days

From La Paz to Potosi to the salt flats of Uyuni and San Pedro de Atacama, this trip will take you through some surreal landscape in Bolivia and Chile. Explore the Witches Market in Laz Paz, see the dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, and bathe in the hot springs of Sol de Mañana. Culture, nature and the mystical collide on this incredible adventure.

Tupiza to Uyuni: Best Off-The-Beaten Path Adventure - 7-Day Itinerary

Multi-colored mountains, giant cacti, canyons, monumental rock formations varying in color from white to red blood, turquoise-blue lagoons, brick red, emerald green — just to name a few of the highlights on this magical 4WD expedition from Tupiza to Uyuni. Welcome to southern Bolivia!