The 17 most unforgettable experiences in Bolivia

Landlocked Bolivia is a vibrant country that offers unique travel experiences for all its visitors.

Although the vast array of options can be daunting, this diversity is a boon for those seeking genuine adventure.

Often overshadowed by the tourism giants nearby, local efforts are propelling Bolivia to the forefront of global travel destinations. With its majestic snow-capped mountains and verdant Amazon rainforest, Bolivia has something to offer everyone—if you know where to seek it.

Packed with hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems, our guide to the best activities in Bolivia is ideal for explorers in pursuit of the most genuine travel experiences.

1. Gaze at the stars on the Salar de Uyuni

As Bolivia's premier tourist destination, the Salar de Uyuni captivates the senses, merging the sky and land to blur the horizon.

Visiting shortly after the rains in March or April enhances this effect, with water reflecting the sky at your feet, offering an unparalleled photo opportunity.

The experience becomes truly surreal at night, as the stars and the Milky Way are reflected on the ground, creating an unforgettable floating illusion.

Travel tip: While many tourists opt for early morning tours from Uyuni, consider multi-day trips that include stops at Isla Incahuasi, hot springs, and the stunning colored lakes in the area.

2. Lose yourself in the Amazon rainforest

The jungle town of Rurrenabaque serves as the gateway to any Bolivian expedition into the Amazon, leading to Madidi National Park, the most biodiverse protected area in the world.

Adventurous visitors will encounter pink river dolphins, hefty capybaras, elusive jaguars, and a stunning variety of bird and insect species as they traverse this wild terrain.

Tour operators offer immersive three-day adventures in the pampas (plains) or the selva (jungle), with many led by indigenous communities that bring their unique magic to the experience.

The Madidi Jungle and Chalalán ecolodges, located three and six hours by boat from Rurrenabaque respectively, are ideal for community-driven explorations, managed and guided by the Uchupiamona people, who have inhabited these lands for generations.

For those seeking top-notch fly-fishing adventures, try your luck for golden dorado with the team at Tsimane Lodge.

3. Explore Lake Titicaca, the cradle of the sun

No journey to Bolivia is complete without experiencing the sacred Lake Titicaca. As the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,812 meters (12,506 feet), Titicaca's gentle waves lap against charming farming villages and hold the mysteries of ancient civilizations hidden beneath its surface.

Take the scenic and less-frequented Huarina-Achacachi-Taquina highway to the beachside town of Copacabana for a taste of the slow-paced life. The rustic ferry ride across the Strait of Tiquina en route to Copacabana’s peninsula is one of Bolivia’s must-have experiences.

Copacabana itself is a vibrant town, and staying in the whimsical domes and spires of Hostal Las Olas offers a bird’s-eye view of boats anchored in the bay while you swing in a hammock. But don’t linger too long—the enchanting mysteries of Isla del Sol, the Incan birthplace of the sun god, await. You can still sense the ancient spirits roaming the paths and stone ruins of this peaceful, car-free island.

4. Explore La Paz, from its streets to the skies

The finest tour guides in La Paz are the lustrabotas, or shoe-shiners. These young individuals, known for their distinctive face-covering knitted masks, will lead you through the streets that echo with history, where traditional artisans—fishmongers, seamstresses, milliners, and of course, lustrabotas—peddle their crafts.

The tour begins at the mural-adorned general cemetery and concludes at the infamous San Pedro Prison. The 50bs fee goes directly to the guides, supporting various social initiatives.

Alternatively, experience the city from above by riding Mi Teleférico, the world’s longest urban cable car system. Spanning 20 miles (32 km) between two cities, this marvel of mass transit was launched in 2014 to efficiently transport commuters through the traffic-clogged streets of La Paz and El Alto.

At just 3bs per line, the cable car quickly ascends from the upscale southern part of La Paz to the outskirts of El Alto in mere minutes, so choose a line and enjoy the ride. The glass cabins accommodate multiple passengers, so you might make some new friends along the journey.

5. Indulge in La Paz’s culinary renaissance

Following the launch of renowned Danish chef Claus Meyer’s Gustu in southern La Paz in 2012, vibrant chefs throughout Bolivia have been opening restaurants at a rapid pace. Head to the heart of La Paz for the finest dining experiences, where lunch menus showcase the city’s culinary delights.

From the second floor of a historic colonial building near the Mercado de las Brujas, the chefs at Popular Cocina Boliviana bring a festive twist to traditional Bolivian cuisine, creating vibrant dishes that echo the lively cumbia music resonating throughout the restaurant.

For an exquisite lunch experience, make your way to the chic Hb Bronze Coffeebar in downtown, where you can enjoy a selection of Bolivia’s finest coffees, wines, and chocolates alongside your sandwich or charcuterie board.

For a truly avant-garde dining adventure, culinary innovator Marco Quelca and his team at Sabor Clandestino present experimental dishes during immersive outdoor meals that delve into the cultures and spiritual beliefs of local indigenous communities. This is more than just dining; it's an event for both the palate and the spirit.

6. Go treasure hunting at Mercado 16 de Julio

In the neighboring city of El Alto, the expansive areas around Plaza 16 de Julio come alive early every Thursday and Sunday. Shop doors fling open, and street vendors unfurl their umbrellas and tarps, creating the largest open-air market in South America.

Fresh produce, sporting gear, handcrafted furniture, used books, even a half helicopter—if you’re looking for it, you’ll likely find it here. The journey to the market from central La Paz is a comfortable 10-minute ride uphill on the city’s red Mi Teleférico cable car line—worth it for the stunning views alone.

Travel tip: Allow yourself to get swept up in the chaos, but stay vigilant against pickpockets.

7. Support the high-flying Cholita Wrestlers

La Paz’s “Cholita Wrestlers” will captivate your heart during their wild afternoon matches. These dramatic bouts, filled with soap opera-like narratives, showcase indigenous athletes as they flaunt their traditional bowler hats and voluminous, cape-like skirts.

They grapple, slam, kick, and soar to victory against crooked heels, unscrupulous opponents, and chauvinistic referees determined to hold these women back.

Cholitas Luchadoras is the top show in town, performing two to three times a week, with their main event on Sundays at a colosseum in El Alto’s Villa Dolores neighborhood. Pickup services are available from La Paz, but it’s just a short six-block walk from the Faro Murillo Mi Teleférico cable car to the venue.

Tickets are priced at 50bs, granting you a ringside seat for an exciting, family-friendly show filled with thrills and spills. Plus, you’ll receive a bag of popcorn—ideal for tossing at that pesky referee.

8. Scale the heights of the Andes

Local lore suggests that the Andes are haunted by mountain deities known as “apus.” Mountaineers from all over the world come to Bolivia to challenge these spirits, experiencing some of the most breathtaking adventures in the process.

It's crucial to choose internationally certified guides, and the mountaineers at Bolivia Expé are among the most skilled in the field.

Huayna Potosí, with its relatively accessible peak and comfortable refuges, is a popular choice, often serving as a training ground for more challenging Bolivian climbs.

The magnificent Mt. Illimani stands guard over La Paz, with its southern face leading to the highest summit in the Cordillera Real, featuring steep ascents and technical challenges. Meanwhile, peaks like Condoriri, Janko Kota, Illampu, and Volcán Sajama await your adventure. Strap on your crampons and grab your ice axe—the apus are ready for your challenge!

Detour: If you're seeking an adrenaline rush from rock climbing, the towering peaks and expansive granite walls of the Cordillera de Quimsa Cruz, located seven hours south of La Paz, are the perfect destination.

9. Connect with pre-history at Bolivia’s dinosaur park

Parque Nacional Torotoro spans a compact 64 sq km (25 sq miles) yet is brimming with excitement. Once the domain of the colossal dinosaurs of the Cretaceous period, dating back 145 million years, visitors can even touch the tracks that bear witness to their existence.

The town of Torotoro is a haven for dinosaur enthusiasts, with locals offering guided treks to the park's largest footprint sites, easily accessible for dinosaur fans of all ages.

While in the park, seize the opportunity to explore its prehistoric scenery, from the breathtaking views at the sunlit rock cathedral of Ciudad de Itas to the thrilling lookout over the depths of Cañon de Torotoro.

Detour: Venture to nearby Huayra K'asa and delve into the very deep and very wet Caverna de Umajalanta. But be forewarned, this intense cave exploration is not for the faint-hearted.

10. Experience a downhill adrenaline rush in Sorata

Nestled beneath the snow-capped peak of Illampu, Sorata hosts the Jacha Avalancha Internacional (Big Avalanche International), an exhilarating annual downhill bike race. Every October, this serene, green valley town attracts daring cyclists from around the globe for a thrilling weekend of mud-splattered, gravity-defying excitement. Join in the adrenaline by tackling Bolivia’s premier off-road biking trails.

For advanced cyclists, the Loma Loma, Eden, and Chilquani trails offer a challenge, while the more road-friendly Camino Millipaya is becoming popular as a beginner's option—some might say a more sensible way to enjoy the thrill while soaking in the beautiful landscape.

A highlight of Sorata is the Gruta de San Pedro, a cave located along a route by the same name. Here, you can delve into the depths of this enigmatic cave and enjoy a leisurely paddleboat ride across its underground lagoon.

With a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, companies like Gravity Bolivia and Bike Adventure Tours can help you realize your adrenaline-fueled aspirations.

11. Catch gold rush fever with horseback tours in Tupiza

Once a bustling hub for clever prospectors and international mining firms, Tupiza was lured by gold-laden riverbeds hinting at untold wealth. This gold rush not only invigorated local banks but also attracted infamous American outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid during their legendary escape from the Pinkerton Agency.

Experience this thrilling history on a guided horseback tour, as you gallop through stunning, red-hued canyons and along the same riverbeds where hopeful gold miners once sought their fortunes.

Ride through the magnificent Cañón del Inca and Cañón del Duende, or trot along the Río San Juan de Oro, where miners still search for glimmers of gold today. Club Ecuestre Amazonas offers fully immersive tours, including visits to active mining towns that transport you back to the days of Butch and Sundance.

Detour: A three-hour drive west from Tupiza takes you to San Vincente, where you can pay homage to the notorious duo at the site of their final, fateful confrontation with the law.

12. Embrace the party spirit in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

As the nation’s economic powerhouse, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is where cruceños balance hard work with lively play. With a vibe reminiscent of Miami and prices that are distinctly Bolivian, the city thrives on its vibrant party culture.

For a lively night out, head to the bustling center near the Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo. Here, bartenders at Duda Bar craft refreshing cocktails, while nearby clubs pulsate with electronica, reggaeton, and more.

Additional nightlife options await along Avenida San Martín, where the drinks and DJ sets at Simon Speakeasy are must-tries.

For beer enthusiasts, Santa Cruz’s consistently warm climate is perfect for the rising number of beer gardens serving a variety of craft brews. The communal wooden tables at Madera encourage mingling with new friends, while the spacious outdoor bar at Santa Cruz Beer Company on Avenida Los Cusis is definitely worth a quick taxi ride from downtown.

13. Discover the eclectic charm of Samaipata

Located three hours southwest of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Samaipata offers cool breezes and a relaxed atmosphere that draws in visitors from all over. Many expats have settled here, opening delightful restaurants like the local favorite, La Boheme, where you can enjoy a cold beer and share travel tales.

Samaipata's main attraction is El Fuerte de Samaipata, a vast 20-hectare archaeological site initially constructed by the Chané people, a pre-Incan civilization whose territory extended into Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. The Incas and later the Spanish also made their marks here, making it a puzzle to piece together its history.

What is the significance of the animal-shaped carvings? And did those mysterious niches serve as priestly preparation rooms or simply storage spaces? Spend your afternoon picnicking while watching for the magnificent condors soaring in from Amboró National Park to the north.

14. Explore the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos

In Chiquitania, Bolivia’s colonial past comes to life, inviting visitors to its Jesuit missions, where intricately carved woodwork awaits admiration at their altars.

This route through tropical savanna features both large and small towns that boast historic churches built in the Baroque Spanish style. You can spend days journeying between missions, marveling at their craftsmanship and warm, golden hues.

Don’t miss the larger, notable churches like the one in Concepción, constructed by Jesuits in the 18^th century, often adorned with sacred art by indigenous artisans. Yet, the churches in smaller villages hold equal significance.

These include the churches in San Miguel, San Raphael, and Santa Ana, built by local communities after the Jesuits departed. Local chamber orchestras often perform in these sacred spaces, making this living history a must-see.

15. Discover Bolivia’s Coffee Region

Caranavi is a charming town that exudes a lively urban vibe, serving as the vibrant hub of Bolivia’s coffee country. The heat and humidity of the nearby cloud forest create a lifestyle that thrives on the town's doorsteps, with the plaza buzzing with family activities.

Adventurous travelers flock to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, ziplining, and rafting. However, coffee reigns supreme here. Family-owned cafetales climb the hillsides, with the enticing aromas of roasting and brewing coffee wafting from the numerous coffee shops in town.

Farmers diligently cultivate some of the world’s highest-altitude coffee, guiding you along Bolivia’s Ruta de Café. Café Aventura, located in the peaceful southwest corner of the plaza, offers one of the most genuine tours around.

Visitors have the chance to explore rustic farms and even try their hand at harvesting and processing coffee beans. The highlight? Sipping a cup of coffee alongside the very farmers who nurtured it.

16. Explore the Heritage of Bolivian Wine in Valle Cinti

Bolivia's wine heritage is rich and profound, extending three hours north of Tarija to the arid, reddish soils of Valle Cinti in Sucre. This region boasts some of the oldest vineyards in South America, established as early as the 1550s.

Here, you'll find Moscatel de Alejandría and negra criolla grapes, along with the unique vischoqueña hybrid, an indigenous variety that produces a light, delightful wine that any wine lover will appreciate.

Vines here ascend 6-meter (20ft) tall trees, and vintners from Jardin Oculto and other wineries use ladders to tend to the crops. Tierra Adentro Tours can ensure you don't miss the harvest season, which takes place from late February to early April.

This area is also the birthplace of singani, Bolivia’s national spirit, where local artisans can demonstrate traditional distilling methods passed down through generations. Camargo serves as the central hub of the region, offering accommodations and abundant market shopping.

Detour: For a unique experience, enjoy vineyard views from the terrace of Hotel Parador Viña de Pereira in the quaint nearby town of Villa Abecia.

17. Witness the somber grandeur of Cerro Rico

In any account of the Spanish Empire, a significant portion must be dedicated to Potosí and its poignant emblem, Cerro Rico.

Founded in 1545, this former mining town is known as the “Mountain That Eats Men,” a title earned from the thousands of miners who lost their lives in its tunnels over the centuries. This silver mine once fueled immense wealth that flowed to Europe.

In the historic district, Plaza 10 de Noviembre showcases key landmarks like La Catedral and El Cabildo. The Casa Nacional de la Moneda, completed in 1773, stands as one of the nation’s premier museums, originally built as a fortress and even serving as one temporarily.

Dominating the skyline, the operational mine at Cerro Rico is largely exhausted, and its conical peak poses a risk of collapse, serving as a stark reminder of the colonial legacy in Latin America.