Top 7 Road Trips in Bolivia

While Bolivia's highways are generally in good condition, driving can be challenging due to erratic drivers, seasonal landslides, and unexpected roadblocks that can disrupt your travel plans. However, the breathtaking sights—such as Lake Titicaca, the iconic Uyuni Salt Flats, and the picturesque Tarija wine region—make every journey worthwhile.

These eight routes feature the most popular attractions in Bolivia alongside hidden gems, showcasing everything from the majestic Andes to the tranquil atmosphere of eastern villages.

1. Journey to Sorata

Ultimate road trip for incredible views La Paz–Sorata; 142km (88 miles); plan for two days

Navigating through La Paz can be challenging due to its steep hills and chaotic traffic, but the sights you’ll encounter make it all worthwhile.

The route to Sorata, via National Route 2 and Road 16, offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera Real mountains and Lake Titicaca, a must-see destination in Bolivia. On clear days, you'll also catch glimpses of the impressive, snow-covered peaks of Ancohuma and Illampu.

Sorata is a charming town nestled in a valley surrounded by stunning mountains and canyons, making it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts.

Detour: Just thirty minutes from Sorata on a rugged road lies a navigable lagoon within a cave, the town’s main attraction. It can be reached by an easy three-hour hike.

2. Journey from the Andes to the Amazon rainforest

Ideal road trip for nature enthusiasts La Paz–Coroico; 108km (67 miles); plan for two days

This journey showcases a stunning array of landscapes, starting in the vibrant city of La Paz and concluding in the welcoming village of Coroico via Road 3. In just two hours, you'll descend from the lofty, snow-capped Andes into the lush Amazon rainforest—an altitude drop of 3,600m (11,482ft) with numerous picturesque spots perfect for photography along the way.

The most popular route to Coroico is by bicycle on the infamous “Death Road,” though it can be quite challenging for some. Alternatively, taking a road trip on a different path provides a safer option while still offering breathtaking views.

Travel tip: Be prepared for fog and rain during the descent, so it’s advisable to avoid traveling to Coroico at night.

3. La Chiquitania

Ultimate road trip for architectural heritage Santa Cruz–Santa Cruz; 934km (580 miles); allow five to six days

Explore centuries-old Jesuit Mission towns set against stunning landscapes and natural wonders in eastern Bolivia's La Chiquitania. This multi-day journey allows you to visit at least four quaint towns and admire their remarkable baroque architecture.

On your journey between Santa Cruz and San Jose, don’t miss three key stops in San Javier, Concepción, and San Ignacio. Be sure to explore the churches and museums for a well-rounded experience.

Detour: If you have some extra time before heading back to Santa Cruz, consider a 150km (93 miles) detour east to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating break in soothing thermal baths.

4. Ancient Cities and Historical Sites

Ideal road trip for a deep dive into history Sucre–Potosí; 155km (96.3 miles); plan for three days

Sucre stands out as one of the best-preserved historic cities in South America, where colonial and republican architecture adorns the whitewashed downtown. From there, take Road 5 to Potosí, once the largest and most significant city globally due to its silver production during colonial times. Both cities boast numerous historical sites worth exploring.

The route also features intriguing stops. Just minutes after setting off, you'll encounter El Castillo de la Glorieta, an eclectic castle built in the late 19th century for Francisco and Clotilde Argandoña, who were honored with royal titles, making them Bolivia’s only royalty in history.

As you travel, you’ll pass through several small agricultural towns that may not attract many tourists but offer delightful artisan markets to explore.

Travel tip: Potosí is the highest city in the world, sitting at an altitude of 4,067m (13,343ft). Be sure to drink coca tea and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness during your journey.

5. Uyuni Salt Flats

Ultimate road trip for a unique experience Potosí–Uyuni; 205km (127 miles); plan for five days

There are various ways to reach Bolivia's most renowned attraction: the breathtaking Uyuni Salt Flats. The simplest method is a three-hour drive along Road 5 from Potosí to Uyuni, a well-kept route offering stunning views of Andean wildlife and landscapes.

While Uyuni is a modest town with limited amenities, it serves as the primary gateway to the salt flats and their surroundings. Set aside at least four days for a thorough tour that includes volcanos, geysers, and the striking colorful lagoons within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve.

Travel tip: This area poses tough conditions for vehicles, and breakdowns can occur. It may be wise to hire a local guide and vehicle to access the salt flats. Numerous tour operators are available in Uyuni, but it's advisable to book in advance.

6. Tarija Wine Region

Perfect road trip for exploring off the beaten path Potosí–Tarija; 348km (216 miles); plan for three days

It's no longer a secret that Bolivia produces high-quality wines. This route, stretching from Potosí to Tarija via Road 1, takes you through Camargo and Villa Abecia, two small towns known for their artisanal wine and singani production, a spirit distilled from white grapes unique to these valleys.

If you visit during summer, it's an ideal time to enjoy the area's natural attractions, including river swimming and easy hiking trails.

The journey concludes in the delightful city of Tarija, where the wine industry plays a vital role in the local economy. Here, you'll discover numerous wineries set against breathtaking landscapes, with hills and vineyards that evoke the charm of Tuscany.

Local tip: The optimal time to explore these valleys is around mid-March, coinciding with the Grape Harvest Festival.

7. Samaipata and the Valleys of Santa Cruz

Ideal road trip for camping and waterfalls Santa Cruz–Samaipata; 121km (75 miles); plan for two days

Samaipata and the route leading to the valleys of Santa Cruz offer abundant natural attractions along Road 7. This winding road, which follows rivers and ascends hills, will take you past Las Cuevas, an excellent spot to safely camp and enjoy the waterfalls.

The charming town of Samaipata is tranquil and serene, yet it boasts a variety of accommodations and dining options, making it a popular tourist destination and a key gateway to Amboró National Park.

You can explore nearby attractions at your leisure, whether it's hiking through the famous fern forest or visiting the pre-Columbian archaeological site of El Fuerte, a magnificent sculpted rock designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel tip: Weekends and holidays tend to be particularly busy in Samaipata. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on weekdays.

Driving tips for Bolivia

Driving in Bolivia can be quite challenging, even for seasoned drivers. While the main routes mentioned here are generally well-kept, road conditions can vary significantly.

Roadblocks can occur frequently; it's advisable to consult locals for guidance and check the Bolivian Roads Administration website for the latest updates.

Along the route, you'll encounter several checkpoints where you can pay the toll, but in some instances, you'll need to walk to a nearby police station to present your driver's license.

In urban areas, traffic can be quite congested, with drivers behaving unpredictably and a scarcity of proper traffic signals, leading to potential frustrations on the road. Be cautious of sudden potholes and speed bumps that may not always be clearly marked.