The Best of Bolivia: Highest Country in South America
In my opinion, Bolivia is one of the most underrated destinations in the world. Before visiting, I had the impression it was a risky place for travelers. While it’s wise to stay caution, I quickly discovered that Bolivia is a hidden gem. From breathtaking landscapes to vibrant culture and rich history, you’ll experience the best of Bolivia in every corner. If you’re seeking an adventure and an off-the-beaten-path experience in South America, I can’t recommend Bolivia enough.
In this article, I will take you through the best of Bolivia, from the best time to visit to the must-see places. I will also share personal tips and recommendations based on my own experience to make the most of your journey.
Overview: Best of Bolivia
- How many days: 10 days
- Best Time to Visit: May to October for trekking and salt flats tours, November to March for rainforests
- Getting Around: buses are most common means of transportation
- Top Attractions: Salar de Uyuni, Lake Titicana (Copacabana), la Paz
- Altitude Sickness: To avoid altitude sickness, acclimate before visiting cities like La Paz, which sit at high elevations.
The Best of Bolivia: Itinerary & Map
After spending about two weeks in Peru, hiking to Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley and Rainbow Mountain, we continued our backpacking trip in South America to Bolivia.
From Puno we took a bus to Copacabana, crossing the border and spent an unforgettable 10 days exploring the best of Bolivia. During this time, we visited the lively streets of La Paz and embarked on a breathtaking tour around the Uyuni salt flats and stunning lagoons.
This trip eventually led us to the border with Chile. All in all, we left Bolivia with a deep appreciation for its natural beauty.
Brief Summary of Bolivia’s History
Bolivia is a country rich in history, culture and untapped potential. Its story stretches back to the time of the Inca Empire, which began in the highlands of Peru and eventually expanded across other regions. Bolivia, in particular, played a central role in this empire’s dominance. However, the land has experienced profound shifts over the centuries. From the glory of the Inca civilization to the scars of more than 300 years of Spanish colonial rule.
One of the most pivotal events of Bolivia’s history was its loss of coastal access. In fact, the War of the Pacific against Chile and Peru led to Bolivia losing its coastal territory along the Pacific Ocean. This landlocked status has remained a defining aspect of Bolivia’s identity.
Following a hard-fought battle for independence, Bolivia became a republic in 1825. This marked the beginning of a complex journey characterized by political, social and economical struggles.
Today, Bolivia still remains one of the poorest nations in South America. But, it has made significant progress in the last decades, emerging as a destination that’s increasingly on the radar of many travelers. From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich culture, the best of Bolivia is found in its unique blend of natural wonders and history.
Best Time to Visit Bolivia
Bolivia offers diverse altitudes, from the world’s highest city, La Paz, to the Amazon jungle at nearly sea level. Generally, the best time to visit Bolivia is between May and October. This also corresponds to the dry season. Usually travelers are recommended to visit during these months. The main reason is that you’re least likely to encounter weather disruptions. So that your travel plans don’t get derailed.
The only downside is that if you plan to hike in the Andes, you’ll experience chilly temperatures. It is not unusual that at night the temperature drops below zero.
Travel Tip: If your main goal is to witness the mirror-like effect of the Salt Flats, keep in mind that this optical illusion only occurs between December and March, during the rainy season. While the sight is breathtaking, crossing the flats can become challenging.
Getting Around Bolivia
The most popular and affordable way to explore Bolivia is by small bus. It’s not only the cheapest option but also a practical one, especially for long-distance travel. Long-distance buses typically operate overnight, allowing travelers to cover more ground while resting. Generally, buses in Bolivia are safe, though road conditions can vary. So, it’s always a good idea to check reviews or ask locals for advice on the best routes.
If you’re heading into the Amazon or other remote regions, small planes and boats are common means of transportation. This is because these areas have a limited road access.
Travel Tip: You can purchase bus tickets in person at the Terminal de Buses La Paz or online. At the terminal, each company has its own ticket window. Also, during peak travel times, make sure you buy tickets in advance.
9 Things to Know Before you visit Bolivia
Bolivia is an awesome country with some unbelievable natural wonders and charming history. As I was discovering this beautiful country in South America, I became more and more interested in its past. To help you get the most out of your trip and truly experience the best of Bolivia, I’ve put together some useful facts and insights that I wish I’d known before going.
Bolivia has two capitals
Bolivia is one of the few countries in the world with two capitals. Sucre is the constitutional capital, where the country’s independence was declared in 1825, and it remains the cultural and historical heart of Bolivia. In contrast, La Paz serves as the seat of government and executive capital, home to the president and key government institutions.
La Paz also holds the title of the highest capital city in the world.
Bolivia is a landlocked country
Funny enough, despite being landlocked, Bolivia actually has a navy. Since losing its coastline to Chile in the War of the Pacific, the Bolivian Navy now operates primarily on Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
It serves as both a symbol of national pride and a reminder of the country’s long-standing hope to one day regain access to the sea.
Bolivia is home to the world’s largest salt flat
The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat and earns its spot on the list of the best of Bolivia. When it rains, the flats create a breathtaking mirror effect, making it look like you’re walking in the sky.
Bolivia has the highest percentage of Indigenous people in South America
Today, more than 60% of Bolivia’s population identifies as Indigenous. They proudly preserve the traditions and culture of their Inca ancestors. Just think that there are over 36 official languages in Bolivia, including Quechua, Aymara and Guarani.
The Witches’ market in La Paz
At the Witches’ Market in La Paz you can see anything from traditional herbs, potions and even lama fetuses. These are used in Aymara rituals to bring good luck or protection and are part of Bolivia’s rich Indigenous traditions.
Bolivia is one of South America’s largest exporters of natural gas
Bolivia is one of the leading exporters of natural gas in South America. This resource plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. Over the years, there have been many protests and conflicts over how the government handles the country’s land and natural resources.
One major issue was the privatization of the gas industry, which was controlled by foreign companies until 2006. In response to these tensions, the government decided to re-nationalize the gas industry, taking control of it again.
Coca leaves as an integral part of Bolivia’s culture
The coca leaf is an integral part of Bolivia’s Indigenous culture, with uses ranging from medicinal to ceremonial. For centuries, the leaf has been chewed by Indigenous communities to combat altitude sickness and fatigue.
However, coca has a controversial side, as it is also the raw material for producing cocaine. Despite Bolivia’s efforts to combat drug trafficking, coca cultivation remains a traditional issue in the country’s politics and economy.
Travel Tip: Coca leaves when used in teas and chewed can alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. It is an important symbol in Bolivian culture and a core practice of Aymara and Quechua people for centuries. While coca is often linked to cocaine, tourists can feel safe trying coca in its natural form in Bolivia.
Sacrificial rituals are part of Incas culture
According to our guide, when inaugurating a new home, launching an infrastructure project, or celebrating a special event, Bolivians make offerings to Mother Earth, or “Pachamama,” to seek her blessings. A common practice involves burying a dried llama fetus beneath the foundation. Such rituals are believed to bring prosperity and protection. Those who participate believe that failing to make an offering could bring them misfortune.
While these rituals may seem unusual, they are still practiced today, especially in rural areas. More unsettling are reports of human sacrifices, often targeting vulnerable individuals, such as the homeless or those under the influence of alcohol. If you’re skeptical, a quick online search will reveal their continued presence in certain parts of Bolivian society.
San Pedro Prison
San Pedro Prison in La Paz is one of the most unusual prisons in the world. It operates like a self-contained community, where inmates can live with their families, run businesses, and buy or sell goods within the prison walls. Unlike most prisons, San Pedro has its own social hierarchy, and the inmates often create a more comfortable lifestyle than outsiders might expect.
This prison has become infamous and even served as a tourist attraction. But, due to safety concerns, these experiences are no longer offered. For those interested in learning more about this fascinating place, I highly recommend reading “Marching powder”.
Best of Bolivia: Recommended Itinerary
If you only have a limited amount of time to visit, I recommend spending anywhere from one to two weeks in Bolivia. We went with 10 days, a perfect middle ground that allowed us to experience some of the best of Bolivia. With more time, you could venture east to explore the Amazon and less-traveled regions for an even deeper look into Bolivia’s incredible diversity.
Day 1: Relax in Copacabana, on Lake Titicaca
We entered Bolivia on the west and spent the first night in Copacabana. This charming lakeside town sits on the shores of the world’s highest navigable lake: Lake Titicaca. It is also the primary gateway to the well-known Isla del Sol. Since we had visited the major islands on Lake Titicaca on the Peruvian side, we decided to skip them here. But if you haven’t been on the islands in Peru, you should give Isla del Sol a visit.
On our first day, we went on a hike to the Cerro el Calvario. The views from the top of the lake and the hills are breathtaking. We spent the rest of the day relaxing with a walk along the beach and the main roads in Copacabana.
We then took the bus to La Paz, which was an experience on its own. Once we arrived at Tiquina, a wide stretch of water separated the two sides of land. The only way to cross it was by boat… both for us and the bus.
Days 2-4: Explore the vibrant city of La Paz
Despite a common misconception, La Paz is not the capital city of Bolivia, Sucre is. In reality, La Paz is the highest governmental and executive capital in the world, while Sucre is the constitutional capital.
As we entered La Paz, we drove through the bustling El Alto district. Instantly, we were captivated by the striking cable car system, known as the teleféricas, that gracefully spanned the skyline in the background.
On the second day, we took a walking tour around the vibrant markets and bustling main squares in La Paz. Above all, we found the intriguing stories of the city to be most fascinating. This included both its sacrificial rituals and the administration of its most historic prison. These unique narratives offered a fascinating glimpse into the rich and complex culture of the city.
Days 5-9: Take a Tour to Uyuni Salt Fields & Lagoons
Night buses are a great way to cover long distances in Bolivia, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. We took one from La Paz to Uyuni, and when we woke up, we were surprised to find the bus windows completely frozen. While we knew it would be chilly in September, this was beyond what we expected! Luckily, our hostel was just a short walk from the bus stop, so we didn’t have to deal with the cold for long.
After enjoying a warm coffee and a hearty breakfast, we began searching for a tour operator for the salt flats and lagoons, which would lead us to the border with Chile. The Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world and ranks at the top of the list of best of Bolivia. Additionally, during the rainy season it turns into the world’s largest mirror. This alone was a bucket-list item that made a trip to Bolivia worth it.
The next morning, feeling satisfied with our choice, we set off for the stunning salt flats in a 4×4 jeep.
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