Total Days: 9 days excluding travel | Accommodations: Hotels, or as close to it as possible! | Traveled with: Solo | Transportation: Flights, buses, cable cars | Type of Trip: Emphasis on unreal landscapes | Highlights: Rainforests walks and salt flat excursions
Get ready for a whirlwind adventure through the heart and soul of Bolivia! This 9-day itinerary will leave you stunned with the unique landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences. It’s the conversations with locals who share their ancestral wisdom, the unexpected encounters with rare wildlife in the depths of the Amazon rainforest, and the impromptu celebrations that sweep you into the vibrant spirit of the Bolivian fiestas. Buckle up, because Bolivia is a wild ride! It’s not glamorous, but it’s once-in-a-lifetime.
DAY 1
At a glimpse: Rurrenabaque Jungle Adventure
Travel agenda: Welcome to Bolivia! Chances are you have flown into El Alto International Airport. Don’t go too far, as you should book the morning 25-minute flight heading to Rurrenabaque, a town located in the Bolivian Amazon. The town is known as the gateway to the Madidi National Park and Pampas del Yacuma and offers various jungle adventure opportunities.
Book the 3-day jungle tour for the full experience. With a plan in place, you will be picked up by your guide and transferred to Santa Rosa. Enjoy the scenic journey and keep an eye out for the diverse fauna of the jungle along the way.
Around noon, board a boat and take a 20-minute ride to the Yacuma Ecolodge. The group will have time to settle into the rooms and have lunch together.
In the afternoon, embark on a hiking excursion through the areas near the lodge. Your guide will point out the local wildlife, including toucans, capuchin monkeys, and anteaters. Experience the impressive sunset in the beautiful surroundings.
After dinner, it’s time to board a boat to observe alligators. The guide’s flashlight will reflect in their eyes. End the day with a peaceful evening at the ecolodge.
Tips: Make sure to pack insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight clothing for your jungle adventure.
DAY 2
At a glimpse: Day 2 of the Rurrenabaque Pampas Tour
Travel agenda: Today is dedicated to exploring the Yacuma River and its wildlife. After breakfast, embark on a river boat and navigate along the Yacuma River.
Keep your eyes peeled for animals such as capybaras, caimans, lizards, turtles, birds, and monkeys. One of the highlights is the chance to spot the elusive pink dolphins. In the afternoon, there’s an opportunity to swim near them.
This is the day to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pampas del Yacuma and enjoy the tranquility of the river.
Finally, return to the ecolodge for dinner and spend the night surrounded by the sounds of nature.
DAY 3
At a glimpse: Day 3 of the Rurrenabaque Pampas Tour
Travel agenda: It’s a 5:30am wakeup to witness the vibrant dawn in the Pampas del Yacuma including the active moments of birds and monkeys in their natural habitat.
After breakfast, set off on a walk through the Pampa in search of the anaconda (yep, you’re seeking out one of the largest snakes in the world. Where else?) Explore the diverse ecosystem and learn about the flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide.
Return to the ecolodge for lunch and prepare for your departure. Around 2:00 p.m., start your journey back to Rurrenabaque, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m.
Book a hotel in town for a night to yourself. For dinner, the best bet in town is Juliano’s.
DAY 4
At a glimpse: La Paz Introduction
Travel agenda: In the morning, take a flight to La Paz, Bolivia’s “administrative” capital city. For the next 24 hours, book a hotel in Calacota, one of the nicer residential areas south of the city.
After checking into your hotel, begin the day with breakfast at Roaster Specialty Coffees, a local favorite.
Then walk 10 minutes to the Cable Car Station Green Irpavi for the first ride on the Mi Teleférico system to enjoy panoramic views of La Paz and its surrounding mountains.by visiting the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can find traditional Bolivian potions, herbs, and talismans. Immerse yourself in the local culture and browse through the stalls filled with colorful and mystical items.
Next, head to Plaza Murillo, the main square of La Paz, surrounded by important government buildings such as the Presidential Palace and the National Congress. Take some time to admire the colonial architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere of the square.
From Plaza Murillo, explore the historic neighborhood of Sopocachi, known for its bohemian vibes and beautiful architecture. Wander through its charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a coffee or a snack at one of the trendy cafes.
End your day with a visit to the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna), located just outside of La Paz. Explore the otherworldly landscapes characterized by eroded clay formations, canyons, and unique rock formations. Take a leisurely walk along the designated paths and witness the incredible natural beauty of this lunar-like landscape during sunset.
For dinner, sample meals at new El Bosque Boulevard. Stop by Vanilla Bistro for a heavenly dessert and cappuccino.
Tips: La Paz is situated at high altitude, so make sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy to acclimate to the altitude.
DAY 5
At a glance: Uyuni Salt Flats tour
Travel agenda: It’s back at the airport for a 9:30am flight to Uyuni. Book a 3-day tour with a reputable company, such as Cordillera Traveller.
The tour starts with a pick-up from the airport at 10:30 a.m. First, all tours will head towards the Train Cemetery, a unique place where old locomotives are abandoned, creating a fascinating landscape.
Next, visit the village of Colchani, where you can explore the Salt Museum and the salt refinery. This is where you will gain insights into the extraction and refinement process of salt. Really its an opportunity to visit local handicrafts shops and pick up some souvenirs.
At noon, it’s time to enter the Uyuni Salt Flats, where you will witness the vast expanse of salt and visit the salt heaps and the “ojos del salar” (small holes with underground water).
The next stop will be Incahuasi Island, a unique environment adorned with giant cacti. This elevated island offers breathtaking views of the Uyuni Salt Flats and serves as an excellent vantage point for capturing stunning photographs.
Around 7:00 p.m., you will arrive at your accommodation (one of the salt hostels) and have an early dinner together before hitting the hay.
DAY 6
At a glimpse: Day 2 of the Uyuni Salt Flats tour
Travel agenda: After an early breakfast, its time to embark on a journey to the famous Laguna Colorada. Along the way, you will pass through the Chiguana salt flats and stop at the Ollague volcano viewpoint to marvel at the panoramic views. You will also visit the Cañapa, Hedionda, Hona, and Ramadita lagoons, known as the altiplanic or colored lagoons.
Continuing your adventure, you will enter the Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve, traversing the stunning Siloli Desert, which boasts volcanic landscapes of various colors. Here, you will encounter the famous Stone Tree and have the opportunity to savor a delicious lunch.
Finally, the picturesque Laguna Colorada is the last stop and home to three different species of flamingos. Take some free time to explore the area and embark on a short trek to witness the diverse wildlife inhabiting this sanctuary of life. Then it’s off to the next hostel for dinner.
If you are located near the Termas de Polques, you can enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, while gazing at the stars.
DAY 7
At a glimpse: Day 3 of the Uyuni Salt Flats tour
Travel agenda: Another early morning, but you will wake right up after a dip in the hot springs!
Then if you didn’t visit last night, you will head to the “Sol de la Mañana” geyser field, as the geothermal activity is most intense during the morning hours. Witness the spectacle of active geysers, fumaroles, and even a small crater with volcanic lava.
Next, the tour will then take you through the Salvador Dalí Desert, with its surrealist landscapes reminiscent of the artist’s work. Continue to the breathtaking Laguna Verde (Green Lagoon), located at the base of the majestic Volcano Licancabur. The lagoon’s emerald-green color is a result of its high mineral content.
From here, some travelers choose to continue their journey through San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. Instead return to Uyuni, passing through the Black Lagoon, valley of rocks, and San Cristobal village church, with a return to Uyuni expected around 5:00pm.
The day is not over yet! Opt for a Salt Flats night tour. Since there’s a portion of the river that overflows, you can still experience the mirror effect even in the dry season. Sunset wine, star gazing, a nighttime photoshoot are on the itinerary tonight.
Then take an overnight bus back to La Paz. Let your hotel know you’re arriving very early (likely 6am).
DAY 8
At a glimpse: Exploring La Paz
Travel agenda: Continue your exploration of La Paz, delving deeper into the city’s cultural and historical highlights.
Visit the San Francisco Church and Convent, a beautiful colonial-era church adorned with intricate artwork and vibrant frescoes. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this religious site.
Afterward, make your way to the colorful and bustling Mercado Rodríguez, one of La Paz’s largest traditional markets. Stroll through the market’s narrow alleys, filled with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and interact with the friendly vendors.
In the evening, dine at a local restaurant in La Paz, such as Salteñeria ULUPIKA.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring various neighborhoods and attractions in La Paz.
DAY 9
At a glimpse: La Paz off the beaten path
Travel agenda: Spend the morning exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of La Paz, such as Calle Jaén. This charming street is lined with colorful colonial buildings and houses several museums, including the Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas and the Museo de Metales Preciosos Precolombinos (Museum of Pre-Columbian Precious Metals).
Then opt for a tour off the beaten path. This city tour which takes you to the real witches market in El Alto. It’s possible you will also be introduced to a local Yatiri (Shaman) and have your fortune read in coca leaves. The tour ends at the beautiful Central Cemetery of La Paz. Catch your breath because from there its a 15-minute uphill walk to Chualluma, a bright neighborhood with colorful homes and murals. Take an hour to walk around and admire the art and views!
Finally, finish the day with dinner at Ali Pacha, one of the best restaurants in the city with a plant-based set menu.
