Bolivia 7 Day Itinerary

7 Day Bolivian Adventure: From Salt Flats to Amazon Rainforest

This itinerary takes you through some of Bolivia’s most iconic landscapes and cultural experiences. It’s a fast-paced journey, but can be adjusted to suit your interests and time constraints.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Visa: Most nationalities can enter Bolivia visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the latest requirements based on your citizenship.
  • Currency: Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). US Dollars are widely accepted, but you’ll get a better exchange rate using local currency.
  • Altitude: Much of Bolivia is high altitude. Allow time to acclimatize in La Paz before venturing higher. Drink plenty of water and consider taking coca tea to alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.

Transportation:

  • Flights: International flights arrive in La Paz (LPB) or Santa Cruz (VVI). Domestic flights are available within the country.
  • Buses: An extensive bus network connects major cities and towns. Expect long journeys, but they’re often scenic and affordable.
  • Tours: Organized tours are readily available for popular destinations like Salar de Uyuni and the Amazon rainforest.

Day 1: Arrival in La Paz & City Exploration

  • Arrive at El Alto International Airport (LPB) and transfer to your accommodation in La Paz.
  • Explore the colorful Witches’ Market, visit the Plaza Murillo, and ride the Mi Teleférico cable car system for stunning views of the city.
  • Accommodation: La Paz offers a wide range of hostels, guesthouses, and hotels to suit all budgets.

Day 2: La Paz Culture & History

  • Visit the Museo Nacional de Arte (National Art Museum) to learn about Bolivian art and history.
  • Take a walking tour of the historic center, including the San Francisco Church and the Palacio Quemado.
  • Enjoy traditional Bolivian cuisine for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Salar de Uyuni - A Surreal Landscape

  • Early morning flight or bus to Uyuni (approx. 1 hour flight, 10 hours by bus).
  • Join a 3-day/2-night jeep tour of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Experience breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, visit Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti, and marvel at the vast expanse of white salt.
  • Accommodation: Basic lodges in remote locations within the salt flats.

Day 4: Salar de Uyuni - Lagoons & Volcanoes

  • Continue your jeep tour through surreal landscapes, stopping at colorful lagoons like Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde. Spot flamingos and other wildlife along the way.
  • Visit the geysers of Sol de Mañana and enjoy panoramic views from the top of a volcano.

Day 5: Return to La Paz & Relax

  • Morning transfer back to Uyuni and take your flight or bus back to La Paz.
  • Enjoy some free time to relax, wander through local markets, or indulge in a traditional Bolivian massage.

Day 6: Amazon Rainforest Adventure

  • Fly from La Paz to Rurrenabaque (approx. 1 hour), the gateway to the Amazon rainforest.
  • Join a multi-day jungle tour with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, canoeing on the Beni River, and swimming in refreshing waterfalls.

Day 7: Departure from Bolivia

  • Enjoy one last morning in the Amazon before transferring back to Rurrenabaque for your flight out of Bolivia.

Optional Activities:

  • Death Road bike tour: An adrenaline-pumping downhill ride along the infamous “World’s Most Dangerous Road”.
  • Tiwanaku Ruins: Explore the ancient pre-Inca ruins near Lake Titicaca.

Tips for Travellers:

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
  • Bargain respectfully at markets and with taxi drivers.
  • Be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms and drink plenty of water.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Enjoy your incredible journey through Bolivia!