Bolivia-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: La Paz

Morning

  • Arrive in La Paz, the highest capital city in the world (3,640 meters above sea level)
  • Take a morning stroll through the bustling streets of El Alto, exploring the local markets and trying some traditional Bolivian breakfast foods like salteñas or humitas
  • Visit the famous Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas) to see the colorful stalls selling everything from potions to llama fetuses

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the city’s historic center, including the Cathedral and Government Palace
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Sopocachi neighborhood
  • Try some local cuisine for lunch, like papas rellenas (stuffed potatoes) or anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers)

Evening

  • Take a scenic ride on the La Paz cable car system for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains
  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving international cuisine in the trendy neighborhood of Sopocachi

Day 2: Lake Titicaca

Morning

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi from La Paz to Copacabana ( approx. 3 hours)
  • Visit the famous Isla del Sol, a sacred island on Lake Titicaca, and explore its scenic hiking trails and ancient ruins
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants serving traditional Bolivian dishes like fish soup or papas con queso

Afternoon

  • Take a boat tour of Lake Titicaca to see the famous Uros Floating Islands, inhabited by indigenous communities living in traditional ways
  • Learn about the history and culture of the region at the Museo del Lago Titicaca

Evening

  • Return to La Paz and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving local cuisine

Day 3: Valle de la Luna

Morning

  • Take a morning bus or taxi from La Paz to Valle de la Luna ( approx. 1 hour)
  • Explore the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations of the valley, known as “Moon Valley” due to its eerie resemblance to the lunar surface
  • Go hiking or horseback riding through the scenic trails of the valley

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby town of Mallasa, known for its traditional textiles and handicrafts
  • Try some local snacks like salteñas or ch’arki (dried llama meat)

Evening

  • Return to La Paz and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many restaurants serving international cuisine

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: US citizens do not need a visa to enter Bolivia, but must have a valid passport for at least six months beyond their intended stay. Check with your local embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: La Paz is connected to other major cities in Bolivia by bus and taxi services. Local transportation options include buses, taxis, and the cable car system.
  • Currency: The Bolivian boliviano (BOB) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs using your debit/credit card.
  • Altitude Sickness: La Paz is at a high altitude, and visitors may experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or nausea. Take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water, and consider taking medication to alleviate symptoms.

Other Things of Interest

  • Salar de Uyuni: The world’s largest salt flat, located in southwestern Bolivia. A popular destination for scenic tours and photography.
  • Amazon Rainforest: Bolivia is home to a large portion of the Amazon rainforest, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife spotting.
  • Cochabamba: A city known for its pleasant climate, traditional festivals, and nearby natural attractions like the Cochabamba Valley.

Note: This itinerary is just a sample and you should adjust it according to your interests, budget, and travel style. Additionally, make sure to check the current travel restrictions and COVID-19 protocols before planning your trip.