Bolivia: La Paz Tour - Sun Island - Uyuni Salt Flats - Huayna Potosi Climb - La Paz.
Bolivia - The Tibet of South America: Bolivia is a land of breathtaking contrasts and ancient wonders. Here lies the world’s largest salt flat, the Salar de Uyuni, stretching across the Andes at an altitude of 3,650 meters. Bolivia is also home to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, renowned for its unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Known for its deep-rooted traditions and numerous monuments of lost civilizations, Bolivia is the most indigenous country in South America and the continent’s vibrant heart of ancient culture.
The highlight of this journey is the ascent of Huayna Potosí (6,088 m), a classic high-altitude climb accessible even to those without prior mountaineering experience. For those seeking an extra adventure, there’s an optional 4-day extension to summit Sajama (6,542 m), Bolivia’s highest peak.
It is necessary to meet a few days in advance to coordinate the full meeting.
Arrive at one of the highest airports in the world, El Alto, at an altitude of 4,000 m! A 45-minute transfer brings us to our hotel in La Paz. After a long journey and high altitude, we’ll keep it light. We’ll stroll through the city and have dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at a hotel in La Paz.
Today, we dive into Bolivia’s vibrant culture. La Paz is a city of contrasts, where colonial charm meets vibrant indigenous life. Walking through the Old City, we’ll see colorful markets and narrow streets with indigenous women dressed in traditional, multi-layered skirts and bowler hats. We’ll visit the Witch Market, full of curios for mystical rituals, and explore the Coca Museum to learn about this revered Andean plant. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a traditional music show at "Canto," where musicians play reed flutes, and we may even join in the lively dances. Overnight at a hotel in La Paz.
In the morning, we’ll drive through the high plains (Altiplano) towards Lake Titicaca, enjoying views of the Andes. We’ll stop in Tikina, where we’ll take a boat across the lake before reaching Copacabana. Here, we’ll visit the 16th-century cathedral and then take a boat to Isla del Sol. We’ll visit the ruins of Pilco Kaín and the Inca Steps at Yumani. Overnight at a guesthouse on Isla del Sol.
At dawn, we’ll embark on a trek to the northern tip of the island (15 km, 4 hours), taking in incredible lake views at sunrise and the tranquil Andean landscape. The trek is moderately challenging and doesn’t require special physical preparation. After reaching the northern end of the island, we’ll take a boat back to Copacabana. Before returning to La Paz, we’ll visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, a white temple with impressive Baroque towers built on ancient Incan temple ruins. Return transfer to La Paz and overnight at a hotel.
We’ll depart early from La Paz towards Uyuni, a journey of 8-9 hours with stops along the way. On arrival, we’ll explore the vast salt flats of Uyuni, a surreal landscape during both dry and rainy seasons. We’ll visit the Cactus Island and Salt House and finish the day with a sunset on the salt flats, where the stars shine bright in the open sky. Overnight at a local guesthouse with dinner included.
We’ll start early to watch the sunrise over the geysers, where steam and sulfur fill the air. Next, we’ll relax in natural hot springs before beginning our return journey to Uyuni. Before boarding our overnight bus back to La Paz, we’ll stop by the Train Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful collection of old steam engines in the desert. Overnight bus to La Paz.
A morning transfer will take us to Huayna Potosí Base Camp at 4,700 m, with a stop en route for any additional gear. In the afternoon, we’ll practice ice techniques on the glacier to prepare for the climb. Overnight at the base camp hut.
Today, we’ll ascend to Rock Camp at 5,100 m (3-4 hours). The route is clear and well-marked, although steep in places. We’ll spend the afternoon preparing for the summit climb. Overnight at the high-altitude hut.
We’ll start early, around 2 a.m., and make our way up the glacier. The route is not steep but includes crevasses and a steeper 30-meter section with a 20-30 degree incline. After reaching the summit, we’ll descend to Rock Camp and return to La Paz. Overnight at a hotel in La Paz.
Early morning transfer to the airport for the flight home, or for those interested, the option to climb Sajama (6542 m).
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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