Bolivia 4 Day Itinerary

Bolivia 4-Day Itinerary: Discovering La Paz, Uyuni Salt Flats, and Tiwanaku

Day 1: Exploring La Paz

  • Activities: Visit the Witches’ Market (Mercado de Hechiceria), explore the colonial neighborhood of Sopocachi, visit the San Francisco Church, and ride a teleférico for panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) in the afternoon.
  • Things to Know: La Paz is located at an altitude of 12,352 feet (3,764 m), so it’s essential to take it easy and drink plenty of coca tea to help with altitude sickness. The city is also known for its vibrant indigenous culture.
  • Transportation: La Paz’s El Alto International Airport (LPB) serves both domestic and international flights. Taxis, local buses, and teleféricos are common ways to get around the city.
  • Visa Requirements: Visitors from many countries can enter Bolivia visa-free for up to 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality. Check the latest requirements with the Bolivian embassy or consulate in your country.

Day 2: Journey to Uyuni Salt Flats

  • Activities: Take a 3-day/2-night tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats, including the Incahuasi Island, Train Cemetery, and volcanic landscapes such as the Thunupa Volcano. Enjoy stunning sunsets and star gazing at night.
  • Things to Know: The tour usually starts early in the morning from La Paz or Uyuni town. Be prepared for long drives, basic accommodations, and cold temperatures during the nights.
  • Transportation: You’ll travel in a 4x4 jeep with a guide, as private and group tours are popular options to explore the salt flats.

Day 3: Tiwanaku Ruins and Return to La Paz

  • Activities: On your way back from Uyuni, visit the ancient city of Tiwanaku – one of the most important archaeological sites in South America. Explore the ruins, temples, and learn about the Tiwanaku civilization’s history.
  • Things to Know: The Tiwanaku Ruins are located approximately 70 kilometers from Copacabana on Lake Titicaca, so it might require a stopover in Copacabana or an additional day trip.
  • Transportation: Continue your journey back to La Paz by road, either directly or with a stopover at Copacabana. You can also take a flight from Desaguadero Airport (CAP) if you prefer.

Day 4: Lake Titicaca and Island of the Sun (Optional)

  • Activities: If you didn’t visit on Day 3, spend your last day exploring Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the floating islands of Uros and the Island of the Sun (Isla del Sol) to learn about the local cultures and traditions.
  • Things to Know: The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. Boats depart frequently from Copacabana or you can arrange a tour that includes transportation, guides, and lunch.