THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BOLIVIA

Home to the world’s most dangerous road, beautiful mountain scenery and ancient Inca ruins, Bolivia has got a lot to offer for adventurous travelers. You can marvel at the surreal landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni, hike rugged trails in the Cordillera Blanca or walk in the footsteps of Che Guevara. From observing diverse wildlife to seeing stunning natural wonders, here are the best things to do in Bolivia.

 

Tiahuanaco

 

Huayna Potosi

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice in Bolivia, as the Andean Mountain range is home to some of the world’s most spectacular peaks. It’s here that you can marvel at Mount Aconcagua, the highest point in the Southern Hemisphere and renowned as one of the Seven Summits. Beginner hikers don’t need to be intimated by the treks, as there are trails that cater to all skill levels. Climb Huayna Potosí for a true adventure.

 

Huayna Potosi

 

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

 

You simply can’t visit Bolivia without experiencing the beauty of Salar de Uyuni, which is the largest salt flat on the planet. You can marvel at the vast expanse of mirror-like surfaces that includes an endless horizon. Visit here during the dry season from late April to October to discover a unique landscape of hexagon-shaped salt deposits with salt left behind by a dried-up prehistoric lake that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Cycle down the world’s most dangerous road

 

If you’re up for an adventure, visit Bolivia’s famous “Death Road” to discover dizzying heights through subtropical climates. The high cliff edges drop 300 feet along the narrow North Yungas Road and can be traversed on guided bike treks that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Located about an hour outside of La Paz, the 50-mile trek snakes down a muddy road and features hairpin turns and numerous blind spots, while many believe the spectacular views are worth the adventure.

 

Death Road

Tiahuanaco

As one of the most important pre-Colombian sites in the Americas, a visit to Tiahuanaco is a must for any history buff. Set under the majestic Cordillera Real Mountain range, Tiahuanaco features an impressive number of beautifully crafted sculptures, gigantic stone building blocks and the mysterious, megalithic stone arch known as El Puerta del Sol (The Sun Gate). Take the time to peruse the onsite museum to learn more about this fascinating ancient culture.

 

 

Explore Copacabana and Lake Titicaca

Nestled on the border between Bolivia and Peru, Lake Titicaca is surrounded with ancient Inca settlements, underwater ruins and deep-blue, crystal-clear waters with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop. It’s one of the country’s most beautiful landmarks and is considered the highest  navigable lakes in the world. Spend time in Copacabana to admire views of the lake and nip into local restaurants to indulge in regional specialities such as freshly caught trout.

 

Lake Titicaca

 

Take a boat trip to Isla del Sol
 

Boats regularly traverse the waters across Lake Titicaca to Isla del Sol, where you can soak up the island’s quiet ambiance. According to local lore, you can watch the sunrise in the same spot where it rose thousands of years before. You’ll find plenty of signposted trails throughout the island that make navigating it easy, where you’ll be rewarded with a chance to explore sacred ruins, remote corners and idyllic landscapes on a memorable walk from one side of the island to the other.

 

Laguna Colorada

 

One of Bolivia’s other unique natural wonders, Laguna Colorada is home to the world’s largest population of rare James’s flamingos in addition to Andean and Chilean varieties. Visit from December to April to see the famous pink-hued beauties, which have their color due to them feeding on the algae that thrive in the mineral-rich waters. Nicknamed “Red Lake”, Laguna Colorada is located about 14,000 feet above sea level and turns an unusual red color caused by the red sediment.

 

Laguna Colorada

 

Witches’ Market, La Paz

 

 If you’re up for some souvenir shopping, visit the Witches’ Market. Located in the backstreets of Bolivia’s capital La Paz. The unique market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs, which small stall holders selling all things weird and wonderful. You’ll find everything from dead llama foetuses and llama jumpers to dried frogs to good luck potions. Meander through the bustling alleyways and see if you can snag a bargain on a unique souvenir.

Take an eco-tour in Madidi National Park

 

Stretching 7,000 square miles from the Andes deep into the Amazon, the Madidi National Park is considered one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. You can travel by boat from Rurrenabaque across the Beni River and explore the rugged terrain through winding rivers, rolling grasslands and steep slopes. You’ll have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, from sloths to squirrel monkeys before going piranha fishing, anaconda hunting and swimming with pink dolphins.

 

Madidi National Park

Walk in the footsteps of Che Guevara

 

Step back in time at the Che Guevara Trail. Che Guevara made his mark on history as a notable revolutionist, socialist and activist, but few realized he was also an ambitious traveler. If you’re interested in learning more about his life, follow in his footsteps to one of Bolivia’s most off-the-beat regions. Pay your respects by visiting the dusty village of La Higuera and admiring its collection of historic sites, such as a mausoleum, murals and school building where he was executed.

 

Valle de la Luna

 

Visit the Moon Valley to see what remains of a clay and sandstone mountain that was battered over time by strong winds and rain. If you’re interested in admiring gorgeous landscapes, you’ll be mesmerized by watching a beautiful sunset here. Explore the labyrinth of canyons and stalagmites on a guided trek of the valley to learn about its unique geography. If you’re looking for a more, or energetic activity, sign up for a biking tour to cross this dusty, hilly landscape.

 

Moon Valley

Walk in Dinosaurs Footprints

For a prehistoric adventure, head to the Parque Cretácico near the city of Sucre, which houses the world’s largest collection of dinosaur footprints. Travel back in time some 68 million years, when dinosaurs ruled the earth and most of the surrounding region was at sea level. The museum has an auditorium and series of exhibitions detailing this critical part of evolution, and there’s also a resort at the park so you can stay near the cliff that overlooks the massive, well-preserved dinosaur footprints.