Uncover Bolivia’s most fascinating locations

Strikingly lovely and mountainous, Bolivia actually takes your breath away the second you contact down. Usually dubbed essentially the most quintessentially South American nation, that is partly due to Bolivia’s isolation afforded by its harsh mountain landscapes and thick Amazonian jungles. As Spanish conquest and large-scale European immigration have been impeded, Bolivia suffered comparatively few modifications. Indigenous peoples have due to this fact managed to carry onto a lot of their traditions, with some distant villages remaining nearly untouched for hundreds of years.

Whereas its isolation continues to make Bolivia fly beneath the radar of common journey, the nation’s spectacular surroundings greater than makes up for any further effort in touring right here. Bolivia may be extraordinarily rewarding, whereas as a value-for-the-money vacation spot, it compares to few others.

For these even mildly contemplating a visit right here, and even the merely curious, we’ve outlined what we as an skilled tour operator have discovered to be Bolivia’s prime locations — in addition to our picks of ever-important lodging in every space — all with the hope of inspiring you to find your personal good Bolivian journey. 

1. The Uyuni Salt Flats: The place heaven meets Earth

The Uyuni Salt Flats (“Salar de Uyuni”) is a big, stark, and mysterious vacation spot of geographic extremes. Shaped hundreds of years in the past because the Andes mountain vary was compelled upwards from the ocean to entice an enormous quantity of salt water, it’s unimaginable to really feel any private significance when confronted with the enormity of this barren saline panorama.

A blinding white expanse framed by mountains and volcanoes, the Salar de Uyuni isn’t solely the biggest salt flat on the planet (protecting 4,000 sq. miles – roughly the scale of Jamaica), it’s additionally one of many highest.

Within the moist season, the flats are layered with a sheet of water which brilliantly displays the immense, shifting skies. At dawn, put together to be astounded because the solar creeps above the horizon and lights the panorama in a blaze of fiery hues, mirrored within the immaculate swimming pools of water. Experiencing the Uyuni Salt Flats at this hour of the day, significantly, is really ethereal and unforgettable. Within the dry season, vacationers can witness a shimmering plain of glistening salt. At any time of the 12 months, although, that is an otherworldly expertise. 

Journey by this huge white wilderness and immerse your self in an unearthly expertise that actually is like nowhere else. 

Uyuni’s totally distinctive salt motels

Extra than simply novelties, a string of distinctive lodges may be discovered within the Uyuni Salt Flats, offering a keep fairly in contrast to anything. Mixing seamlessly into their shiny white environment, these motels are constructed nearly totally of salt derived from this dried-up lake. The whole lot from the gleaming façade to the flooring made from pure salt.

Certainly one of our favorites is the Palacio de Sal (the “Salt Palace”), a luxurious, secluded retreat for journey nestled on the fringe of the flats. Original nearly totally out of salt, the lodge welcomes you to find one of the vital mystical locations on Earth. Step out onto the salt pans simply meters out of your door to expertise an unlimited expanse of sensible white so far as the attention can see. Visitors can take pleasure in cozy rooms, gourmand eating, and even a spa – all whereas surrounded by the surreal fantastic thing about the salar. Equally beautiful views of the Salar de Uyuni may be taken in from each window of the lodge.

Uyuni lodges just like the Palacio are sanctuaries for journey seekers and the spiritually curious as they provide an array of outside actions and excursions connecting you to the encompassing fantastic thing about Bolivia’s salt flats in distinctive and great methods. 

2. La Paz: A metropolis of contrasts

The dizzying altitudes of its high-altitude Andean journey locations have led Bolivia to be described because the “rooftop of the world.” In truth, the town of La Paz is acknowledged because the world’s highest capital metropolis, resting at an altitude above Europe’s highest mountain prime.

This multifaceted metropolis gives greater than could also be apparent to most vacationers. A fusion of colonial structure, tight streets, and a dramatic mountainscape location make for an intoxicating combine. La Paz oozes contrasts and an unexpectedly cosmopolitan really feel juxtaposed with sometimes Bolivian authenticity. Town’s ramshackle myriads of tightly woven, multi-layered buildings clinging to the hillside are as a lot of the spectacle as the fragile facades and nice plazas of the Outdated City historic district or the smooth skyscrapers of downtown. It’s all only a style of what to anticipate in La Paz.
This nonetheless comparatively unknown although thriving metropolis is definitely endearing, attracting vacationers again to its frantic streets time and time once more. 

La Paz’s high-altitude havens

Whereas La Paz is thought for its rugged appeal, this contrasts with its shocking array of refined motels that cater to demanding vacationers looking for each consolation and class.

Certainly one of our prime picks in La Paz is the Casa Grande Lodge. Located within the upmarket Zona Sur district, this isn’t solely a quieter space of the town, but it surely additionally gives quick access to close by sights. With its good design and urbane ambiance, Casa Grande options rooms which can be greater than ample in measurement, to not point out its rooftop pool, gourmand restaurant, and its top-notch wellness spa.

This and different luxurious motels such because the Atix Lodge and Lodge Europa present not solely consolation but additionally improve the La Paz expertise with their customized companies, gourmand delicacies, and spectacular views of the town’s breathtaking vistas. 

3. Potosí and Sucre: A journey by the colonial previous

For a glimpse into Bolivia’s wealthy colonial historical past and beautiful pure magnificence, the 2 neighboring southern highlands cities of Potosí and Sucre are every value visiting.

As for Potosi, you’ll discover a tawny city brimming with lovely baroque buildings. Whereas the town itself reaches an altitude of over a mile above sea stage, nonetheless it lies within the shadow of the unmistakable Cerro de Potosi Mountain. A go to to this metropolis gives an enchanting perception into its previous, with the looming mountain piercing the sky as an inescapable reminder of the fruitful – and deadly – silver mining previous. On the peak of its silver manufacturing, Potosi was the richest city in South America; wealth that was doomed to downfall as soon as the provides ran low.

Immediately, whereas it’s not the wealthiest metropolis, Potosi nonetheless cradles beautiful colonial structure that begs admiration, as does the Cerro Rico mine, the place you’ll be able to enterprise deep into the underworld of this massif of yesteryear riches. 

For its half, Sucre — a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Website in 1991 and Bolivia’s constitutional capital — is a splendid instance of colonial structure with its whitewashed buildings topped with terracotta-colored roofs. Stroll by the streets to find hidden gems round each nook, from quaint church buildings and rows of terraced housing with fairly balconettes to grand authorities buildings adorned with giant pillars and complex carvings. With breathtaking cathedrals dominating their environment, the architectural delights of Sucre are one thing of which you’ll by no means tire.

Each Potosí and Sucre promise unforgettable experiences for vacationers. With their wealthy historical past, beautiful structure, pleasant locals, and upbeat festivals, these two neighboring cities represent a must-visit vacation spot for anybody exploring Bolivia. 

Potosí-Sucre lodging: Bask in colonial appeal

Lodging are supplied for each style in each Potosí and Sucre. As for Sucre, it’s identified for its relaxed ambiance and beautiful whitewashed buildings. Certainly one of its luxurious boutique motels is our favourite: The Parador Santa Maria La Actual, a sensitively restored mansion that provides company an opportunity to experience all of the facilities of this lavish colonial lodge.

Potosí, additionally a colonial metropolis, has inviting motels like Hostal Patrimonio and Lodge Coloso, which combine conventional structure with trendy comforts that may be loved by vacationers.

Each cities function a variety of lodging, making it straightforward for vacationers to discover a place that fits their preferences whereas experiencing the wealthy historical past and tradition of the 2. 

4. Bolivian Amazon: Nature’s hidden gem

Although eclipsed by its Brazilian peer, the Bolivian Amazon combines journey and astonishing biodiversity, however with even fewer crowds. Inside Bolivia’s Amazon is Madidi Nationwide Park, a protected space that’s dwelling to one of the vital numerous ecosystems on the planet.

Simply the considered going into this or every other space of the Amazon can conjure up each concern and fascination in even essentially the most intrepid of explorers, journey right here gives you an opportunity to immerse your self within the rainforest and uncover a digital Backyard of Eden that’s dwelling to the world’s most unique wildlife.

On a Bolivian wildlife-watching tour, you’re more likely to expertise the hair-raising roar of a troop of howler monkeys excessive within the forest cover, spot the glowing eyes of caimans on the riverbank throughout a nighttime jungle safari, or observe households of Big otters as your canoe crosses a mirror-like lake. There’s even the possibility of getting a glimpse of the elusive jaguar on the prowl.

Make direct contact with one other of the important thing options of the Amazon: Its remoted but thriving Indigenous communities. Go to a distant Indigenous group and participate in a magical ceremony led by a conventional shaman. All of this may be discovered within the Amazon on a guided tour, permitting you a private reference to this distinctive atmosphere, native cultures, unique wildlife …and with your self. Simply maintain your digicam on the prepared, as nothing compares to experiencing an Amazonian tributary and the rainforest first-hand.  

The Bolivian Amazon’s rainforest retreats

One of many earth’s most biodiverse areas, the Bolivian Amazon gives vacationers a difficult but eye-opening journey expertise. A distant area finest identified for its vibrant and unique wildlife; this space of the Amazon additionally boasts lodges with facilities catering to the actual wants of discerning vacationers searching for respite from the sometimes-sultry rainforest atmosphere.

Within the coronary heart of the Bolivian Amazon’s Madidi Nationwide Park, the intimate Atarisi Lodge is one among our premier decisions. Not solely have been the non-public cabins at this eco-friendly lodge designed in concord with the encompassing space and constructed with native supplies, however pristine nature is true at your step.

This and different Bolivian Amazon lodges just like the Chalalan Lodge and the Mashaquipe Eco Lodge present hair-raising journey together with unplugged rest. Visitors can expertise guided excursions deeper into the rainforest to observe wildlife, go on boat excursions, go to macaw clay-licks, and make cultural contact with the native Indigenous group. Highlights of such lodges can embody invigorating pure spas and panoramic views of the encompassing tropical jungle. 

5. Siloli Desert: An otherworldly journey

Enterprise into southwest Bolivia’s Siloli Desert on a fascinating otherworldly journey into this high-altitude desert stretching so far as the attention can see. In distinction to its dusty sands, although, there’s a assortment of breathtakingly tranquil lakes (lagunas) on this area. These are dwelling to colonies of uncommon breeds of flamingos, surprisingly thriving on this distant and inhospitable land. These enigmatic pink birds are discovered feeding within the salty water, defying conference in an excellent show of flaming crimson water.

Behind all of it, towering volcanoes and eerie rock formations which have been formed over time by the unrelenting wind make for an enchanting backdrop to this unforgettable scene. Barren however lovely, and awash with distinctive photograph alternatives, the Siloli Desert’s huge dusty panorama of putting colourful vistas is a startling place to behold. 

Siloli Desert lodges: Diamonds within the tough

Marked by putting rock formations and beautiful landscapes, the Siloli Desert is a distant and rugged space of southwestern Bolivia. On this desert is a clutch of simple desert motels providing each the fundamental comforts and facilities. Notice although that any lack of historically outlined “luxurious” afforded by these lodging is greater than made up by the stark fantastic thing about the encompassing desert.

Amongst these lodges, a standout is Lodge Tayka de Piedra, which has plopped itself proper down within the coronary heart of the Siloli Desert to supply respite from the cruel desert atmosphere. This welcoming eco-hotel options spacious, well-appointed rooms with image home windows looking onto the desert’s surrealistic panorama. Constructed with sustainable supplies, the lodge maintains a concentrate on environmental preservation whereas nonetheless offering trendy comforts equivalent to sizzling showers, a restaurant serving mouth-watering native delicacies, and heating for these chilly desert nights.

Whether or not you’re searching for a solo journey, a getaway as a pair, or perhaps a household trip, Siloli Desert lodges like Tayka Pierda present the right base for exploring this extraordinary vacation spot. 

6. Lake Titicaca: Floating islands and historic ruins

For anybody craving for each astounding surroundings and interesting historic tradition, a go to to Lake Titicaca is a should. Backdropped by picture-perfect snow-capped mountains, Lake Titicaca guarantees to entice any customer with its glistening azure waters and legendary islets. Because it unfolds throughout the horizon in a spectacular show of pure magnificence, this lake was as soon as believed to be the birthplace of the solar. Guests nonetheless discover it tough to consider that this unbelievable physique of glistening water is certainly a lake and never an unlimited sea.

One other shock lies in the truth that the lake is dwelling to over 40 floating islands. Initially constructed by the Uros individuals a number of centuries in the past, these human-made islets have since modified little or no as locals proceed to make use of the normal constructing strategies and supplies – Totora reeds. Glide out onto the glassy waters aboard a reed-hulled boat to fulfill these communities and see how every island is exclusive.

Titicaca itself is the world’s highest navigable lake, steeped in heritage and cultural gems, lending spectacular perception into the historical past and long-standing traditions that proceed to thrive right here. Spanning an space so huge it crosses nation borders. Lake Titicaca’s beautiful views, archeological ruins, non secular websites, and enjoyable boat excursions are to not be missed. 

A Lake Titicaca day-trip to the pre-Columbian metropolis of Tiwanaku

As soon as the positioning of a legendary but mysterious civilization, the traditional pre-Columbian metropolis of Tiwanaku clearly deserves exploration. Skilled archeologists and newbie buffs alike will probably be stunned by the sheer scale of the constructions excavated right here thus far. At this UNESCO-designated World Heritage Website not too removed from Lake Titicaca, you’ll end up considering the distinctive human achievements of over a millennia in the past. From large stone monoliths and pyramids to elaborate palaces and temples, you’ll be launched to a formidable civilization that after dominated a lot of the southern Andes.

Although a lot of the positioning stays unexcavated, the huge constructions which have been uncovered within the ceremonial heart present that this was a society superior past its time, setting up every part from sunken courts and a posh irrigation system to towering pyramids, ritual platforms, and massive monoliths. Archaeologists proceed to marvel on the dimensions of those constructions and puzzle over how such monumental stones have been moved, reduce, and erected. Wander amid these ruins for an ethereal expertise of how life might need been on these now silent plains, missed by the distant mountains of the Andes. 

– Trendy Lake Titicaca lodges

Lake Titicaca and its iconic Isla del Sol (Solar Island) promise distinctive and unforgettable experiences. Whereas the lake space is thought for its Indigenous tradition and beautiful landscapes, it additionally boasts an array of upscale motels and lodges that cater to discerning vacationers searching for consolation and class; amongst these are Lodge Rosario del Lago and Ecolodge La Estancia.

Nonetheless, one of the vital famend luxurious lodges on Lake Titicaca is Lodge Titilaka. Sitting on the lake, simply throughout the Bolivian border, this elegant institution blends modern design with conventional Bolivian touches. Right here, company can take pleasure in spacious rooms with panoramic views of Titicaca and the encompassing mountains, bask in gourmand eating, and unwind in a world-class spa. Visitors at this and different space motels are offered guided excursions of the world’s historic ruins, although they will at all times select to easily loosen up and relish the serenity, mystical magnificence, and wealthy historical past of Lake Titicaca. 

Go, discover, uncover, take pleasure in..!!

Although not as well-known as its South American neighbors, Bolivia beguiles any customer with a stunning mix of chic surroundings, intriguing structure, and pre-Columbian heritage. Enterprise right here to be greeted by vibrant cultures constructed on centuries of custom, evident within the variety of Indigenous languages and colourful, genuine gown, in addition to seeing how these cultures exist alongside remnants of a colonial previous.

Although maybe perplexing and vexing if tried by yourself, an skilled tour-operator-designed journey itinerary by Bolivia will mean you can uncover the superlative pure fantastic thing about this nation and its individuals – the essence of South America.

Alfonso Tandazo

Alfonso Tandazo is President and CEO at Surtrek Tour Operator. Surtrek Tour Operator is a well-established agency, specializing in custom-designed luxurious excursions in Ecuador, the Galapagos and all through the remainder of South America. If you want to be a visitor blogger on A Luxurious Journey Weblog with a purpose to increase your profile, please contact us.