Strikingly beautiful and mountainous, Bolivia literally takes your breath away the moment you touch down. Often dubbed the most quintessentially South American country, this is partly thanks to Bolivia’s isolation afforded by its harsh mountain landscapes and thick Amazonian jungles. As Spanish conquest and large-scale European immigration were impeded, Bolivia suffered relatively few changes. Indigenous peoples have therefore managed to hold onto many of their traditions, with some remote villages remaining virtually untouched for centuries.
While its isolation continues to make Bolivia fly beneath the radar of popular travel, the country’s spectacular scenery more than makes up for any extra effort in traveling here. Bolivia can be extremely rewarding, while as a value-for-the-money destination, it compares to few others.
For those even mildly considering a trip here, or even the simply curious, we’ve outlined what we as an experienced tour operator have found to be Bolivia’s top destinations — as well as our picks of ever-important accommodations in each area — all with the hope of inspiring you to discover your own perfect Bolivian adventure.
1. The Uyuni Salt Flats: Where heaven meets Earth
The Uyuni Salt Flats (“Salar de Uyuni”) is a gigantic, stark, and mysterious destination of geographic extremes. Formed thousands of years ago as the Andes mountain range was forced upwards from the ocean to trap a massive amount of salt water, it’s impossible to feel any personal significance when faced with the enormity of this barren saline landscape.
A dazzling white expanse framed by mountains and volcanoes, the Salar de Uyuni isn’t only the largest salt flat in the world (covering 4,000 square miles – roughly the size of Jamaica), it’s also one of the highest.
In the wet season, the flats are layered with a sheet of water which brilliantly reflects the immense, shifting skies. At sunrise, prepare to be astounded as the sun creeps above the horizon and lights the landscape in a blaze of fiery hues, reflected in the immaculate pools of water. Experiencing the Uyuni Salt Flats at this hour of the day, particularly, is truly ethereal and unforgettable. In the dry season, travelers can witness a shimmering plain of glistening salt. At any time of the year, though, this is an otherworldly experience.
Journey through this vast white wilderness and immerse yourself in an unearthly experience that really is like nowhere else.
Uyuni’s utterly unique salt hotels
More than just novelties, a string of unique lodges can be found in the Uyuni Salt Flats, providing a stay quite unlike anything else. Blending seamlessly into their bright white surroundings, these hotels are built almost entirely of salt derived from this dried-up lake. Everything from the gleaming façade to the floors made of pure salt.
One of our favorites is the Palacio de Sal (the “Salt Palace”), a sumptuous, secluded retreat for adventure nestled at the edge of the flats. Fashioned almost entirely out of salt, the hotel welcomes you to discover one of the most mystical places on Earth. Step out onto the salt pans just meters from your door to experience a vast expanse of brilliant white as far as the eye can see. Guests can enjoy cozy rooms, gourmet dining, and even a spa – all while surrounded by the surreal beauty of the salar. Equally stunning views of the Salar de Uyuni can be taken in from every window of the hotel.
Uyuni lodges like the Palacio are sanctuaries for adventure seekers and the spiritually curious as they offer an array of outdoor activities and excursions connecting you to the surrounding beauty of Bolivia’s salt flats in unique and wonderful ways.
2. La Paz: A city of contrasts
The dizzying altitudes of its high-altitude Andean travel destinations have led Bolivia to be described as the “rooftop of the world.” In fact, the city of La Paz is recognized as the world’s highest capital city, resting at an altitude above Europe’s highest mountain top.
This multifaceted city offers more than may be obvious to most travelers. A fusion of colonial architecture, tight streets, and a dramatic mountainscape location make for an intoxicating mix. La Paz oozes contrasts and an unexpectedly cosmopolitan feel juxtaposed with typically Bolivian authenticity. The city’s ramshackle myriads of tightly woven, multi-layered buildings clinging to the hillside are as much of the spectacle as the delicate facades and pleasant plazas of the Old Town historic district or the sleek skyscrapers of downtown. It’s all just a taste of what to expect in La Paz.This still relatively unknown though thriving city is certainly endearing, attracting travelers back to its frantic streets time and time again.
La Paz’s high-altitude havens
While La Paz is known for its rugged charm, this contrasts with its surprising array of refined hotels that cater to demanding travelers in search of both comfort and sophistication.
One of our top picks in La Paz is the Casa Grande Hotel. Situated in the upmarket Zona Sur district, this is not only a quieter area of the city, but it also provides easy access to nearby attractions. With its smart design and urbane atmosphere, Casa Grande features rooms that are more than ample in size, not to mention its rooftop pool, gourmet restaurant, and its top-notch wellness spa.
This and other luxury hotels such as the Atix Hotel and Hotel Europa provide not only comfort but also enhance the La Paz experience with their personalized services, gourmet cuisine, and impressive views of the city’s breathtaking vistas.
3. Potosí and Sucre: A journey through the colonial past
For a glimpse into Bolivia’s rich colonial history and stunning natural beauty, the two neighboring southern highlands cities of Potosí and Sucre are each worth visiting.
As for Potosi, you’ll find a tawny town brimming with beautiful baroque buildings. While the city itself reaches an altitude of over a mile above sea level, nonetheless it lies in the shadow of the unmistakable Cerro de Potosi Mountain. A visit to this city provides a fascinating insight into its past, with the looming mountain piercing the sky as an inescapable reminder of the fruitful – and fatal – silver mining past. At the height of its silver production, Potosi was the richest town in South America; wealth that was doomed to downfall once the supplies ran low.
Today, while it’s no longer the wealthiest city, Potosi still cradles exquisite colonial architecture that begs admiration, as does the Cerro Rico mine, where you can venture deep into the underworld of this massif of yesteryear riches.
For its part, Sucre — a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site in 1991 and Bolivia’s constitutional capital — is a splendid example of colonial architecture with its whitewashed buildings topped with terracotta-colored roofs. Stroll through the streets to discover hidden gems around every corner, from quaint churches and rows of terraced housing with pretty balconettes to grand government buildings decorated with large pillars and intricate carvings. With breathtaking cathedrals dominating their surroundings, the architectural delights of Sucre are something of which you’ll never tire.
Both Potosí and Sucre promise unforgettable experiences for travelers. With their rich history, stunning architecture, friendly locals, and upbeat festivals, these two neighboring cities constitute a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bolivia.
Potosí-Sucre accommodations: Indulge in colonial charm
Accommodations are offered for every taste in both Potosí and Sucre. As for Sucre, it’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning whitewashed buildings. One of its luxury boutique hotels is our favorite: The Parador Santa Maria La Real, a sensitively restored mansion that gives guests a chance to revel in all the amenities of this lavish colonial hotel.
Potosí, also a colonial city, has inviting hotels like Hostal Patrimonio and Hotel Coloso, which mix traditional architecture with modern comforts that can be enjoyed by travelers.
Both cities feature a range of accommodations, making it easy for travelers to find a place that suits their preferences while experiencing the rich history and culture of the two.
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4. Bolivian Amazon: Nature’s hidden gem
Though eclipsed by its Brazilian peer, the Bolivian Amazon combines adventure and astonishing biodiversity, but with even fewer crowds. Within Bolivia’s Amazon is Madidi National Park, a protected area that’s home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.
Just the thought of going into this or any other area of the Amazon can conjure up both fear and fascination in even the most intrepid of explorers, travel here offers you a chance to immerse yourself in the rainforest and discover a virtual Garden of Eden that’s home to the world’s most exotic wildlife.
On a Bolivian wildlife-watching tour, you’re likely to experience the hair-raising roar of a troop of howler monkeys high in the forest canopy, spot the glowing eyes of caimans on the riverbank during a nighttime jungle safari, or observe families of Giant otters as your canoe crosses a mirror-like lake. There’s even the chance of getting a glimpse of the elusive jaguar on the prowl.
Make direct contact with another of the key features of the Amazon: Its isolated yet thriving Indigenous communities. Visit a remote Indigenous community and take part in a magical ceremony led by a traditional shaman. All of this can be found in the Amazon on a guided tour, allowing you a personal connection with this unique environment, local cultures, exotic wildlife …and with yourself. Just keep your camera at the ready, as nothing compares to experiencing an Amazonian tributary and the rainforest first-hand.
The Bolivian Amazon’s rainforest retreats
One of the earth’s most biodiverse regions, the Bolivian Amazon offers travelers a challenging yet eye-opening adventure experience. A remote region best known for its vibrant and exotic wildlife; this area of the Amazon also boasts lodges with amenities catering to the particular needs of discerning travelers seeking respite from the sometimes-sultry rainforest environment.
In the heart of the Bolivian Amazon’s Madidi National Park, the intimate Atarisi Lodge is one of our premier choices. Not only were the private cabins at this eco-friendly lodge designed in harmony with the surrounding area and built with local materials, but pristine nature is right at your doorstep.
This and other Bolivian Amazon lodges like the Chalalan Lodge and the Mashaquipe Eco Lodge provide hair-raising adventure along with unplugged relaxation. Guests can experience guided tours deeper into the rainforest to watch wildlife, go on boat tours, visit macaw clay-licks, and make cultural contact with the local Indigenous community. Highlights of such lodges can include invigorating natural spas and panoramic views of the surrounding tropical jungle.
5. Siloli Desert: An otherworldly journey
Venture into southwest Bolivia’s Siloli Desert on an enchanting otherworldly journey into this high-altitude desert stretching as far as the eye can see. In contrast to its dusty sands, though, there is a collection of breathtakingly tranquil lakes (lagunas) in this region. These are home to colonies of rare breeds of flamingos, surprisingly thriving in this remote and inhospitable land. These enigmatic pink birds are found feeding in the salty water, defying convention in a glorious display of flaming red water.
Behind it all, towering volcanoes and eerie rock formations that have been shaped over time by the unrelenting wind make for a fascinating backdrop to this unforgettable scene. Barren but beautiful, and awash with exceptional photo opportunities, the Siloli Desert’s vast dusty landscape of striking colorful vistas is a startling place to behold.
Siloli Desert lodges: Diamonds in the rough
Marked by striking rock formations and stunning landscapes, the Siloli Desert is a remote and rugged area of southwestern Bolivia. In this desert is a clutch of straightforward desert hotels offering both the basic comforts and amenities. Note though that any lack of traditionally defined “luxury” afforded by these accommodations is more than made up by the stark beauty of the surrounding desert.
Among these lodges, a standout is Hotel Tayka de Piedra, which has plopped itself right down in the heart of the Siloli Desert to provide respite from the harsh desert environment. This welcoming eco-hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms with picture windows looking out onto the desert’s surrealistic landscape. Built with sustainable materials, the lodge maintains a focus on environmental preservation while still providing modern comforts such as hot showers, a restaurant serving mouth-watering local cuisine, and heating for those chilly desert nights.
Whether you’re seeking a solo adventure, a getaway as a couple, or even a family vacation, Siloli Desert lodges like Tayka Pierda provide the perfect base for exploring this extraordinary destination.
6. Lake Titicaca: Floating islands and ancient ruins
For anyone yearning for both astounding scenery and fascinating ancient culture, a visit to Lake Titicaca is a must. Backdropped by picture-perfect snow-capped mountains, Lake Titicaca promises to entice any visitor with its glistening azure waters and legendary islets. As it unfolds across the horizon in a spectacular display of natural beauty, this lake was once believed to be the birthplace of the sun. Visitors still find it difficult to believe that this incredible body of glistening water is indeed a lake and not a vast sea.
Another surprise lies in the fact that the lake is home to over 40 floating islands. Originally constructed by the Uros people several centuries ago, these human-made islets have since changed very little as locals continue to use the traditional building methods and materials – Totora reeds. Glide out onto the glassy waters aboard a reed-hulled boat to meet these communities and see how each island is unique.
Titicaca itself is the world’s highest navigable lake, steeped in heritage and cultural gems, lending spectacular insight into the history and long-standing traditions that continue to thrive here. Spanning an area so vast it crosses country borders. Lake Titicaca’s stunning views, archeological ruins, religious sites, and relaxing boat tours are not to be missed.
A Lake Titicaca day-trip to the pre-Columbian city of Tiwanaku
Once the site of a legendary yet mysterious civilization, the ancient pre-Columbian city of Tiwanaku clearly deserves exploration. Trained archeologists and amateur buffs alike will be bowled over by the sheer scale of the structures excavated here to date. At this UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site not too far from Lake Titicaca, you’ll find yourself contemplating the exceptional human achievements of over a millennia ago. From massive stone monoliths and pyramids to elaborate palaces and temples, you’ll be introduced to a formidable civilization that once dominated much of the southern Andes.
Though much of the site remains unexcavated, the vast structures that have been uncovered in the ceremonial center show that this was a society advanced beyond its time, constructing everything from sunken courts and a complex irrigation system to towering pyramids, ritual platforms, and enormous monoliths. Archaeologists continue to wonder at the dimensions of these constructions and puzzle over how such enormous stones were moved, cut, and erected. Wander amid these ruins for an ethereal experience of how life might have been on these now silent plains, overlooked by the distant mountains of the Andes.
– Stylish Lake Titicaca lodges
Lake Titicaca and its iconic Isla del Sol (Sun Island) promise unique and unforgettable experiences. While the lake area is known for its Indigenous culture and stunning landscapes, it also boasts an array of upscale hotels and lodges that cater to discerning travelers seeking comfort and sophistication; among these are Hotel Rosario del Lago and Ecolodge La Estancia.
However, one of the most renowned luxury lodges on Lake Titicaca is Hotel Titilaka. Sitting on the lake, just across the Bolivian border, this elegant establishment blends contemporary design with traditional Bolivian touches. Here, guests can enjoy spacious rooms with panoramic views of Titicaca and the surrounding mountains, indulge in gourmet dining, and unwind in a world-class spa. Guests at this and other area hotels are provided guided tours of the area’s ancient ruins, though they can always choose to simply relax and relish the serenity, mystical beauty, and rich history of Lake Titicaca.
Go, explore, discover, enjoy..!!
Though not as well-known as its South American neighbors, Bolivia beguiles any visitor with a dazzling blend of sublime scenery, intriguing architecture, and pre-Columbian heritage. Venture here to be greeted by vibrant cultures built on centuries of tradition, evident in the number of Indigenous languages and colorful, authentic dress, as well as seeing how these cultures exist alongside remnants of a colonial past.
Though perhaps perplexing and vexing if attempted on your own, an expert tour-operator-designed travel itinerary through Bolivia will allow you to discover the superlative natural beauty of this country and its people – the essence of South America.
Alfonso Tandazo
Alfonso Tandazo is President and CEO at Surtrek Tour Operator. Surtrek Tour Operator is a well-established firm, specializing in custom-designed luxury tours in Ecuador, the Galapagos and throughout the rest of South America. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
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