Classic Bolivia Holiday: Salt Flats, Capitals & Sacred Waters

Every journey is unique, and this tour can be fully personalised to yours. At Earth Trip, we believe adventure should fit your rhythm. This classic 2-week bespoke itinerary is masterfully crafted for travellers who want to experience Bolivia’s most iconic landscapes and deep cultural heritage without the frantic pace of standard group tours. We focus on a beautifully balanced flow that prioritises natural acclimatisation, seamless private transport with professional chauffeur-guides, and hand-picked boutique accommodations that showcase the true character of the Andes.

Price per person
From £5,790
Duration
14 Days

Why Choose This Tailor-Made Private Adventure?

  • Fully Customisable: Whether you wish to extend your stay on the edge of the world’s largest salt flats, add private specialist-led market tours in La Paz, or upgrade to a historic colonial manor house with private courtyards in Sucre, we can adjust every detail to suit your style.

  • Expert Private Chauffeur-Guide: Navigate Bolivia’s vast high-altitude plateaus and historic mountain valleys entirely in a premium, private vehicle. Your dedicated guide acts as a local expert and cultural translator, understanding the need for flexible pacing, spontaneous roadside photography, and unhurried exploration.

  • Paced for Discovery:

    • Culture & Traditions: Discover the vibrant, high-altitude city life of La Paz and explore the monumental, pre-Incan stone ruins of Tiwanaku.

    • Colonial Heritage: Walk the immaculate, whitewashed streets of Sucre and uncover the grand silver-mining history of Potosí.

    • Otherworldly Landscapes: Traverse the infinite, geometric white expanses of the Salar de Uyuni, spanning over 4,000 square miles.

    • Sacred Waters: Cruise the deep sapphire waters of Lake Titicaca and step ashore on the serene, terraced hills of Isla del Sol.

At a Glance

Feature Details
Best For Discerning travellers, history enthusiasts, and active couples seeking iconic landscapes and deep heritage.
Pace Masterfully Managed & Steady (Prioritising natural acclimatisation).
Transport Premium private vehicles and 4x4s with a dedicated expert chauffeur-guide.
Highlights Salar de Uyuni, Lake Titicaca, Colonial Sucre, La Paz, and Tiwanaku Ruins.

Itinerary Highlights

This 14-day private expedition is expertly crafted to showcase the grand contrasts of Bolivia’s Altiplano. By entirely excluding shared public transport, busy coaches, and rushed schedules, it ensures a highly personalized, quiet connection with the heart of South America.

High-Altitude Modernity & Ancient Empires (The Andean Hub)

  • La Paz Exploration: Discover the dramatic topography of the world’s highest administrative capital. Glide above the city in premium cable cars for panoramic mountain views, and walk through the historic quarters accompanied by your private specialist guide.

  • Tiwanaku Civilization: Journey across the high plains to uncover the enigmatic stone gateways and colossal monoliths of an ancient empire that thrived centuries before the Incas.

Living History & White Cities (Colonial Heritage)

  • Sucre’s Colonial Elegance: Stroll through the beautifully preserved, whitewashed streets and quiet plazas of Bolivia’s constitutional capital, enjoying an unhurried pace that allows you to absorb the relaxed, lower-altitude climate.

  • Potosí’s Silver Legacy: Visit the historic imperial city of Potosí to learn about its monumental mining heritage and view the grand colonial architecture that once influenced the global economy.

Boundless Salt Deserts & Sacred Lakes (The Great Horizons)

  • Salar de Uyuni: Explore the breathtaking, blindingly white expanses of the world’s largest salt flats on a completely private 4×4 safari. Cross the geometric plains to isolated, cactus-strewn islands, returning each evening to unique boutique hotels.

  • Lake Titicaca & Isla del Sol: Cruise the sapphire-blue waters of the world’s highest navigable lake on a private boat charter. Step ashore on the peaceful Cradle of the Incas to walk ancient stone pathways and view the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real.

Practical Details

  • Price: From £5,790 per person (based on double occupancy). Please contact us for a bespoke quote tailored precisely to your party.

  • Duration: 14 Days / 13 Nights.

  • Best Time to Visit: May to October. This dry winter window delivers crisp, bright days, exceptionally clear blue skies, and optimal driving conditions across the salt plains.

  • Transport: Premium private vehicles and specialist 4x4s with a dedicated Earth Trip chauffeur-guide throughout.

  • Accommodation: A hand-picked selection of character-rich boutique retreats, historic colonial casonas, and unique salt-block accommodations.

Why This Private Journey Works

  • Acclimatisation Specialists: We reject the frantic pace that rushes visitors straight into high altitude. Our route is designed masterfully, integrating gentle rest days and pacing your movements across varying elevations so you remain entirely comfortable.

    Earth Trip
  • No Crowded Transit: We completely eliminate public transport, domestic bus journeys, and crowded transfer stations. Your family or private party travels exclusively in premium, climate-controlled comfort.

  • Bespoke Flexibility: Your private chauffeur-guide is there to adapt entirely to your daily energy levels. If you want an extra hour photographing the sunset reflections or a later start after a day of exploration, the schedule is yours to move.

  • Purposeful Luxury: In alignment with our commitment to sustainable tourism, this itinerary partners directly with local indigenous communities, rural heritage properties, and eco-conscious operators to ensure your journey supports local livelihoods.

Aleem’s Expert Note

“Bolivia is a destination that completely rewards a slower, more thoughtful approach to travel. This itinerary isn’t about rushing from one viewpoint to the next; it’s about watching the morning light hit the infinite white plains of Uyuni, or feeling the crisp, clean air of the Andes as you walk along the ancient stone paths of Isla del Sol. We designed this journey to remove all the typical friction of travel in the Andes. With a premium private vehicle, a dedicated expert guide, and a beautifully balanced pace, you have the total freedom to connect with these surreal landscapes in complete comfort. It is the perfect blend of raw, dramatic discovery and refined, professional expertise.”

The Best Time To Visit

May to October

The best time to visit Bolivia for this itinerary, especially for exploring both the high-altitude cities and the Salar de Uyuni salt flats, is during the dry season, from May to October.

Enquire Today

Regions You’ll Visit

View map

EXPAND ALL

CLOSE ALL

Business Class Flights Upgrades are available

Day 1 –  Departure to Bolivia & Arrival in La Paz & Natural Acclimatisation

Welcome to Bolivia’s dramatic, high-altitude capital. Upon clearing customs at El Alto International Airport, your dedicated Earth Trip chauffeur-guide will meet you in the arrivals hall, assist with your luggage, and escort you to your premium, private vehicle.

You will be driven down into the canyon to your hotel, watching the urban landscape unfold against the backdrop of the snow-capped Mount Illimani. After a seamless check-in, the remainder of your day is intentionally left entirely at leisure. We strictly recommend taking this time to rest, enjoy a cup of traditional coca tea, and allow your body to naturally and comfortably adapt to the Andean elevation.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Atix Hotel

A sophisticated, low-capacity boutique property located in the lower-lying Zona Sur district (which assists beautifully with early acclimatisation). The hotel showcases stunning contemporary Bolivian art, native stone architecture, and features a refined rooftop lounge with panoramic mountain views.

  • Transfer Time: 30 minutes in your private, climate-controlled vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Room Only.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 2 – Privately Guided La Paz Exploration & The Valley of the Moon

Your second day is dedicated to uncovering the extraordinary contrasts of La Paz alongside your expert private guide. The city’s geography is staggering, and by using a combination of your private climate-controlled vehicle and the city’s silent, modern cable car network, we maintain a gentle, comfortable pace that avoids strenuous high-altitude walking.

Today’s Private Highlights

    • Colonial Architecture & Living Culture: Begin your morning at the 16th-century San Francisco Church, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture featuring unique stone carvings that blend indigenous and European artistry. Continue through the historic lanes to Plaza Murillo, the central square framed by the grand Cathedral and the Presidential Palace.

    • The Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas): Stroll through this fascinating open-air market, where local Aymara vendors offer traditional Andean herbs, remedies, and dried llama amulets used to seek health, prosperity, and protection from Pachamama (Mother Earth).

    • Mi Teleférico Cable Car: Step into a private cabin on the world’s highest cable car system. This smooth, peaceful ride glides above the sprawling canyons, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city layout and the dramatic, snow-dusted peaks of the Cordillera Real.

    • The Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna): Travel just south of the city centre to explore a surreal geological labyrinth. Millions of years of wind and rain have eroded the clay mountainsides into an infinite maze of pale, towering stalagmites and sharp spires that closely resemble a striking lunar landscape.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Atix Hotel

Enjoy a second evening in the stylish comfort of the Atix Hotel. After a day of exploring, the rooftop lounge provides a wonderful, quiet setting to reflect on the day’s discoveries with views across the illuminated valleys of the Zona Sur.

  • Travel Time: 45 minutes from central La Paz to the Valley of the Moon in your private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 3 – Private Excursion to the Ancient Tiwanaku Ruins

Today you will step back in time to explore one of South America’s most mysterious and historically significant archaeological sites. Leaving the city canyon of La Paz behind, your private chauffeured vehicle climbs onto the expansive high-altitude plains of the Altiplano, heading toward the shores of Lake Titicaca to uncover the monumental stone ruins of the Tiwanaku Empire.

Flourishing centuries before the rise of the Incas, Tiwanaku was the spiritual and political heart of a powerful pre-Columbian civilisation. Accompanied by your expert private guide, you will spend the day walking among colossal megalithic structures, uncovering the advanced engineering and precise astronomical alignments that continue to fascinate archaeologists today.

Today’s Private Highlights

    • The Akapana Pyramid: Explore the remains of this massive, seven-tiered ceremonial step pyramid. Once covered in beautifully polished stone and sophisticated internal drainage networks, it served as a sacred temple dedicated to the Andean mountain deities.

    • The Gate of the Sun (Puerta del Sol): Stand before this legendary monolithic gateway, masterfully carved from a single block of solid volcanic stone. The lintel is intricately engraved with complex, mysterious figures—including the iconic “Staff God”—which are widely believed to represent a sophisticated solar and astrological calendar.

    • The Kalasasaya Temple: Walk inside this sprawling, low-walled sacred enclosure. The temple features incredible structural masonry and houses the towering, intricately carved Ponce Monolith, a spiritual anthropomorphic statue holding sacred ritual vessels. Adjacent to the temple, you will also view the striking Semi-Subterranean Temple, whose stone walls are studded with dozens of uniquely carved stone heads.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Atix Hotel

Return to La Paz in the late afternoon to spend your final evening at the Atix Hotel. Relax in the comfort of your room, or head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy a quiet evening and a meal showcasing contemporary Bolivian cuisine.

  • Travel Time: 1.5 hours each way in your private, climate-controlled vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 4 – Private Flight to Sucre: Bolivia’s “White City”

This morning, you bid farewell to the high-altitude canyon of La Paz as your private driver escorts you to the airport for a short domestic flight south. Your destination is Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital and arguably its most beautiful urban jewel.

Sitting at a remarkably comfortable elevation of 2,810 metres, Sucre offers a significantly warmer, Mediterranean-style climate. This drop in altitude provides a welcome, relaxing interlude that allows you to fully recharge. Upon landing, you will be met in the arrivals hall by your dedicated Earth Trip driver and privately chauffeured to your historic hotel located right in the heart of the old city.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The Historic Centre of Sucre: The afternoon is yours to stroll through this exceptionally preserved, UNESCO-listed colonial masterpiece. Sucre is legally mandated to maintain its pristine, whitewashed facades, creating a luminous backdrop as you explore its elegant avenues.

  • Plaza 25 de Mayo: Relax in the shade of the lush trees in the city’s central square, surrounded by grand architecture, vibrant local life, and historic cafes.

  • Casa de la Libertad: View the external grandeur of this historic building, the very birthplace of the nation where Bolivia’s Declaration of Independence was signed in 1825.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Hotel de Su Merced

A beautifully restored 18th-century colonial manor house that captures the aristocratic romance of old Sucre. The hotel is filled with authentic antique furnishings, sun-drenched central courtyards, and features a multi-tiered rooftop terrace that offers superb, sweeping views across the terracotta-tiled roofs and white steeples of the city.

  • Flight Time: 1 hour from La Paz to Sucre.

  • Transfer Time: 20 minutes from Sucre Alcantarí Airport to your hotel in a private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 5 – Privately Guided Exploration of Sucre & Prehistoric Footprints

Today is dedicated to a multi-layered exploration of Sucre’s deep history, spanning from prehistoric eras to living indigenous cultures. Travelling in the absolute comfort of your private vehicle, you will navigate the city’s scenic ridges and cultural hubs alongside your expert private guide at a masterfully unhurried pace.

Today’s Private Highlights

    • Parque Cretácico (Cal Orck’o): Journey just on the outskirts of the city to witness a truly jaw-dropping geological phenomenon. Here, a massive, near-vertical limestone cliff reveals over 5,000 authentic fossilised dinosaur footprints dating back 68 million years. Left by multiple species—including massive Titanosaurs—along an ancient lakebed that was later pushed upright by tectonic shifts, this is the largest collection of prehistoric tracks on earth.

    • La Recoleta Monastery: Head up to this serene, 17th-century Franciscan monastery perched high on Churuquella Hill. Walk beneath its grand, whitewashed stone arches and enjoy a quiet moment looking out over the magnificent panorama of Sucre’s terracotta roofs, green plazas, and the rolling Andean mountains beyond.

    • The ASUR Textile Museum: Return to the historic centre to visit this outstanding cultural sanctuary. The museum showcases beautifully preserved, complex indigenous textiles from the Jalq’a and Tarabuco communities. You will learn about the intricate iconography woven into these garments and have the private opportunity to observe local master weavers demonstrating techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Hotel de Su Merced

Return to your restored colonial manor house for a final evening in Sucre. Unwind within the peaceful inner courtyards or ascend to the multi-tiered rooftop terrace to watch the evening stars emerge over the luminous “White City.”

  • Travel Time: 10 to 15 minutes between central locations in your private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 6 – Private Drive to Potosí: The Imperial Silver Capital

This morning, you depart Sucre in your private, climate-controlled vehicle, embarking on a dramatic scenic drive that climbs steadily back into the high Andes. Your destination is Potosí, a city whose immense historic wealth once altered the course of global history.

Perched at a breathless 4,090 metres above sea level at the base of the iconic, conical Cerro Rico (Rich Mountain), Potosí was once one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world during the 16th and 17th centuries, entirely fueled by the silver that flowed from its mines. Upon arrival, you will check into your historic accommodation before stepping out with your expert private guide to explore the remnants of this imperial grandeur.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The National Mint (Casa de la Moneda): Tour this colossal, fortress-like building that covers an entire city block. As the historic mint where Spain processed the silver from Cerro Rico into coins, it stands as one of South America’s most critical colonial monuments. Walk through its grand stone courtyards to view massive, original wooden rolling mills powered by mules, historic coin-stamping presses, and an unparalleled collection of silver artifacts and colonial art.

  • San Lorenzo de Carangas Church: Stand before the extraordinary facade of this 16th-century church, widely considered one of the finest examples of Mestizo Baroque architecture in existence. The intricate stone portal is a masterclass in colonial craftsmanship, intricately carving indigenous Andean motifs—such as sirens holding charangos, suns, moons, and tropical flora—alongside traditional Christian imagery.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Hostal Colonial Potosí

A beautifully preserved historic manor house that perfectly mirrors the colonial romance of old Potosí. Featuring traditional tiled courtyards, heavy wooden doors, and classic period decor, this charming low-capacity property provides a warm, atmospheric, and comfortable refuge in the crisp mountain air.

  • Travel Time: 3 hours through the dramatic mountain passes in your private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 7 – The Silver Legacy: Private, Ethically Managed Tour of Cerro Rico

Today is dedicated to an immersive, deeply eye-opening encounter with Potosí’s living history. Accompanied by your expert private guide, you will journey to the iconic, conical peak of Cerro Rico (Rich Mountain) for a firsthand look at the silver mines that have been operating continuously since the 15th century.

This excursion is designed as a respectful, culturally immersive experience. Rather than treating the location as a mere tourist attraction, your private guide will safely introduce you to the complex sociological reality, enduring spiritual traditions, and historical legacy that define the daily lives of Potosí’s independent mining cooperatives.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The Miners’ Market: Before heading up the mountain, stop alongside your private guide at the traditional open-air miners’ market. Here, you will observe the tools of the trade—from safety equipment to bags of raw coca leaves. Following local custom, your guide will assist you in purchasing small tokens of appreciation, such as coca leaves or soft drinks, to present directly to the miners you meet.

  • The Underworld of Cerro Rico: Step inside the historic shafts of a cooperative-run mine. As you walk through the rocky tunnels, your guide will explain the traditional extraction methods that remain largely unchanged since colonial times.

  • El Tío (The Lord of the Underworld): Deep within the mountain, you will stop before a statue of El Tío, the syncretic subterranean deity who guards the miners beneath the earth. You will witness how miners leave small offerings of coca leaves and tobacco to seek protection, good fortune, and safe passage before they begin their physical work.

Your Boutique Sanctuary: Hostal Colonial Potosí

Return to the historic city centre to spend a final evening at the Hostal Colonial Potosí. After a profound and thought-provoking day on the mountain, the peaceful, heated courtyards of your colonial sanctuary provide a welcoming, comfortable space to unwind and reflect.

  • Travel Time: 15 minutes each way in your private, climate-controlled vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Day 8: Potosí to Uyuni

Leave the silver-mining history of Potosí behind as you travel into the high-altitude landscapes of the Altiplano. Your private driver will navigate the winding mountain roads, which gradually smooth out into expansive, Martian-like plains as you approach the edge of the desert.

Keep an eye out for herds of vicuñas and llamas grazing along the isolated roadside. Upon arriving in Uyuni, the ultimate gateway to the salt flats, you will check into your accommodation to relax and adjust to the altitude before tomorrow’s expedition.

Journey Details

  • Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours by private car (approx. 200 km).

  • Pacing Tip: The road is fully paved, smooth, and highly scenic. Moving from the steep valleys of Potosí down to Uyuni actually drops your altitude slightly from around 4,060 metres to 3,670 metres, which often helps with acclimatisation.

Accommodation

Hotel Jardines de Uyuni

A charming, rustic boutique property designed like a traditional Andean home. Built with local materials and decorated in vibrant, warm Altiplano colours, it provides an exceptionally cosy refuge from the harsh, cold desert winds outside. The property features effective central heating and a lovely indoor pool area to help you unwind and prepare for your upcoming salt flats adventure.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Read more...

Days 9–10: Private 4×4 Expedition Across the Salar de Uyuni

Over the next two days, you will cross the breathtaking, boundless expanses of the Salar de Uyuni on an entirely private, expertly guided 4×4 expedition. Spanning over 4,000 square miles at an elevation of 3,650 metres, this is the world’s largest salt flat—a pristine, blindingly white geometric crust that creates one of the most surreal and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.

By travelling in your private, custom-outfitted 4×4 vehicle, you completely bypass the standard tourist convoys. Your expert guide knows exactly how to navigate the salt desert to find complete isolation, allowing you to experience the grand scale of the Altiplano in profound silence.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes)

    • The Experience: Located just on the outskirts of Uyuni town, this hauntingly beautiful open-air museum is home to dozens of abandoned, rusting steam locomotives dating back to the late 19th century. Once used to carry minerals to Pacific ports, these massive steel skeletons are now beautifully preserved by the crisp desert air, standing as a striking monument to Bolivia’s early industrial era.

  • The Boundless Salt Crust & Surreal Photography

    • The Experience: Drive deep into the heart of the salt flats, where the horizon completely disappears. Your private guide is an expert in utilizing the absolute flatness of the landscape to compose creative perspective photographs. During the dry season (May to October), the landscape is a brilliant grid of white salt crystals; during the summer rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the flats into the world’s largest natural mirror, flawlessly reflecting the sky.

  • Incahuasi Island (Isla Incahuasi)

    • The Experience: Rise out of the flat white sea onto this dramatic, isolated volcanic outcrop. The island is completely covered in hundreds of giant, slow-growing cacti—some towering over 30 feet high and aging back centuries. A gentle walk along the ancient coral-formed trails to the island’s summit rewards you with an extraordinary, panoramic 360-degree view across the infinite salt desert.

Your Boutique Sanctuary

Palacio de Sal

  • The Experience: Spend a truly unforgettable night at the world’s very first luxury hotel crafted entirely from local salt blocks. Located right on the eastern edge of the flats, the walls, ceilings, tables, and even the bed frames are expertly sculpted from the mineral. This low-capacity property beautifully blends contemporary Andean design with premium comfort, featuring highly effective heating, a refined restaurant serving local Altiplano cuisine, and a magnificent spa to relax in after a day of desert exploration.

  • Travel Time: 15 minutes from Uyuni town to the desert’s edge; approximately 1 hour driving across the salt crust to reach Incahuasi Island.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast, Private Picnic Lunch on the Salt Flats, and Dinner.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Day 11 – Private Flight to La Paz: Rest & Urban Relaxation

This morning, your private 4×4 driver will collect you from your salt hotel and chauffeur you back to the airport for your short domestic flight north, crossing the dramatic spine of the Andes once more. Returning to La Paz for your final nights in the country allows you to ease back into a more relaxed rhythm after the rugged exploration of the high Altiplano deserts.

Upon landing at El Alto International Airport, your dedicated Earth Trip chauffeur-guide will welcome you back in the arrivals hall, handle all your luggage, and drive you in climate-controlled comfort down into the city center. The remainder of your afternoon and evening are completely yours to enjoy at an unhurried pace—whether that means resting, browsing the local artisan boutiques, or enjoying a slow stroll through the city’s historic quarters.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The Scenic Descent

    • The Experience: Enjoy a smooth, private transfer down into the massive urban basin of La Paz, watching the city’s unique architecture cling to the canyon walls beneath the permanent glacial peak of Mount Illimani.

  • Leisurely Urban Exploration

    • The Experience: With your central location, take the opportunity to wander through the nearby galleries, shop for premium alpaca wool textiles, or simply sit at a quiet cafe to absorb the vibrant atmosphere of the world’s highest administrative capital.

Your Boutique Sanctuary

Stannum Boutique Hotel

  • The Experience: Check into this chic, highly refined boutique property located in the vibrant Sopocachi district. Known for its avant-garde design, warm hospitality, and intimate scale, the hotel offers a sophisticated sanctuary far removed from the city’s bustle. The beautifully appointed rooms feature expansive panoramic windows, providing spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountain ridges.

  • Flight Time: 1 hour from Uyuni to La Paz.

  • Transfer Time: 30 minutes from the airport to your hotel in your private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

 

 

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Day 12 – Private Journey to Copacabana & The Sacred Lake Titicaca

This morning, you leave La Paz in your private, climate-controlled vehicle to head toward the borderlands of Peru. Your destination is Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable body of water sitting at 3,812 metres above sea level. This sacred lake was revered by the Incas as the literal birthplace of the sun and the cosmos.

Your scenic drive winds through rural Aymara villages and past the snow-capped spine of the Cordillera Real before arriving at the vibrant lakeside town of Copacabana. Here, you will step out with your expert private guide to explore this historic pilgrimage site, set against a deep sapphire-blue aquatic horizon.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • The Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana

    • The Experience: Visit this colossal, 17th-century Moorish-style sanctuary that dominates the town square. Rebuilt with gleaming white walls and Portuguese-tiled domes, it houses the legendary Virgen de Copacabana (the Dark Virgin)—a beautiful, 16th-century indigenous sculpture carved from dark cactus wood by a native artist. Your private guide will explain how this shrine remains one of South America’s most critical syncretic pilgrimage sites, blending deep Andean traditions with Catholic devotion.

  • Calvary Hill (Cerro El Calvario)

    • The Experience: For those seeking an rewarding panorama, take an optional, slow-paced late-afternoon stroll up this sacred hillside path. Lined with stone stations of the cross, the summit rewards your family with a truly breathtaking, uninterrupted view of the sun setting over the endless, ocean-like horizon of Lake Titicaca.

Your Boutique Sanctuary

Hotel Rosario del Lago

  • The Experience: Check into this lovely boutique lakeside property that beautifully celebrates local traditions. Crafted with classic colonial-republican architecture, stained glass, and warm wood accents, the hotel sits right on the shoreline. Each room provides a peaceful, comfortable retreat featuring wide windows that look directly out onto the peaceful waters of Lake Titicaca, allowing you to drift off to sleep to the gentle sound of the waves.

  • Travel Time: 3.5 hours from La Paz to Copacabana in your private vehicle.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Day 13 – Private Boat Expedition to Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun)

Today you will step aboard a private boat charter to cross the deep sapphire-blue waters of Lake Titicaca to Isla del Sol. In Incan mythology, this rugged, terraced island is revered as the cradle of creation—the sacred place where the sun god Inti rose to banish darkness and where the first Incas emerged.

By avoiding the crowded public ferries, your private boat allows you to travel at an unhurried pace, arriving at the island’s shores just as the morning light illuminates the distant, snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real. Accompanied by your expert private guide, you will spend the day walking along ancient stone trails, exploring remote ruins, and connecting with the profound silence of this sacred island.

Today’s Private Highlights

  • Pilkokaina Palace (Palacio de Pilkokaina)

    • The Experience: Step ashore on the southern coast of the island to explore this fascinating 15th-century Incan archaeological site. Built entirely from unpolished stones bound with mud mortar, this two-storey complex is widely believed to have served as a sacred royal outpost and temple for Incan pilgrims traversing the lake. Your private guide will walk you through its unique, low-ceilinged corbelled chambers and explain how its doors were strategically aligned to greet the rising sun.

  • The Yumani Staircase & Sacred Fountain

    • The Experience: Continue your island journey to the village of Yumani, where you will look up at the famous grand Inca Staircase. This monumental stone stairway climbs steeply past ancient agricultural terraces. At the base, you will pause at the legendary Fountain of Youth—a natural freshwater spring bubbling from three distinct stone channels that have flowed continuously since pre-Incan times, considered deeply sacred by local Aymara communities for its rejuvenating properties.

Your Boutique Sanctuary

Hotel Rosario del Lago

  • The Experience: Return by private boat to Copacabana in the late afternoon to spend a final, peaceful evening at the Hotel Rosario del Lago. Relax in the comfort of the lakeside lounge, reflecting on your journey across the sacred waters while watching the stars blanketing the dark Andean sky.

  • Boat Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours each way from Copacabana on your private boat charter.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast and a Traditional Apthapi (Andean Picnic Lunch).

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Day 14 – Private Return to La Paz & Final International Departure

Your final day in Bolivia begins with a smooth morning drive from the shores of Lake Titicaca, returning across the expansive Altiplano plains in the comfort of your private, climate-controlled vehicle. Ascending to the rim of the canyon, you will arrive back in La Paz for your final few hours in this captivating capital.

Depending on your international flight schedule, your afternoon is left flexibly at leisure. Your dedicated private driver and vehicle remain entirely at your disposal should you wish to head into the elegant boutiques of the Zona Sur for some last-minute shopping—perfect for sourcing world-class, premium alpaca wool knitwear, local organic chocolates, or unique silver jewellery. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy a relaxed lunch at a contemporary cafe while taking in a final view of the permanent glaciers of Mount Illimani.

When it is time to depart, your Earth Trip chauffeur-guide will provide a seamless private transfer to El Alto International Airport, assisting with all your luggage and escorting you right to the check-in desks for your overnight flight back to the United Kingdom.

Today’s Private Logistics

  • The Scenic Return & Airport Transfer

    • The Experience: Enjoy a reliable, stress-free transit that completely eliminates public coaches or busy station transfers, ensuring your extraordinary journey through Bolivia concludes with the exact same professional comfort with which it began.

  • Travel Time: 3.5 hours from Copacabana to La Paz, plus a 30-minute final transfer to the international departures terminal.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

Show More

Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights

  • Upgrade or change your hotels .
  • Add or remove attractions.
  • Stay longer in some locations.
  • Let us make it perfect for you.

A Tour Tailored to You

Tailor-Made for Your Rhythm

While this 14-day itinerary offers a masterfully balanced journey through Bolivia’s most iconic highlights, we understand that every traveller’s pace and style are entirely unique. At Earth Trip, we specialise in transforming this classic route into an experience crafted precisely around you.

  • Slower Paces & Extended Discovery: If you wish to spend more time adjusting to the altitude or capturing the shifting light across the salt crust, this tour can easily be extended. We can add extra nights on the edge of the Salar de Uyuni or plan a dedicated rest day in the spring-like climate of Sucre, ensuring you travel in complete comfort without ever feeling rushed.

  • Your Choice of Character-Rich Accommodation: The properties we have recommended—from the striking, art-focused Atix Hotel in La Paz to the extraordinary, hand-sculpted salt blocks of Palacio de Sal—are our top choices for authentic style and high-end private comfort. However, we can seamlessly swap any stay to align with your personal preferences, whether you prefer an ultra-exclusive private suite, a historic colonial estate, or an eco-conscious desert retreat.

  • Flexible Private Customisation: Every excursion, private tour, and scenic drive is completely fluid. If you prefer an unhurried morning exploring local artisan weavers in Sucre over a museum visit, or wish to remain on the salt flats past twilight for private sunset drinks, your dedicated chauffeur-guide will adapt the day entirely to your daily energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, absolutely. Children find the surreal expanses of the salt flats, the abandoned steam locomotives at the Train Cemetery, and private boat rides across Lake Titicaca to be incredibly exciting adventures. Because we travel exclusively by premium private transport, we can easily adjust driving times, incorporate frequent rest stops, and ensure your vehicle is perfectly equipped with child seats and plenty of cold refreshments.

2. Can I change the hotels in the itinerary?

Without a doubt. While we selectively partner with boutique properties like Atix and Palacio de Sal for their exceptional character, service, and strategic locations, we can customize your accommodation entirely. If you have a specific luxury brand, an intimate historic casona, or a private luxury villa in mind, we will masterfully integrate it into your route.

3. What is the best time of year to see the “Mirror Effect” on the salt flats?

To witness the spectacular mirror reflections, the best time to visit is during the summer rainy season, typically from January to March, when a thin layer of water covers the salt crust. However, if you prefer to explore the infinite, geometric white salt desert and reach isolated outposts like Incahuasi Island, the dry winter window from May to October delivers crisp, bright days and optimal driving conditions.

4. How much walking is involved in this itinerary?

The physical exertion is entirely up to you. Most of your landscape exploration—especially across the vast Altiplano and the Salar de Uyuni—is done from the absolute comfort of your private 4×4 or climate-controlled vehicle. Historic sites like the Tiwanaku ruins and the paths on Isla del Sol do involve walking over uneven stone terrain, but your private guide will ensure you move at a relaxed, steady pace tailored perfectly to your comfort.

5. How does the high altitude affect the journey?

The elevation in the Bolivian Andes is significant, which is exactly why we design our itineraries with specialized pacing. By housing you in the lower-lying Zona Sur of La Paz upon arrival and descending into the gentle Mediterranean climate of Sucre early in the trip, we allow your body to adapt naturally. Your private guide is always on hand with traditional remedies and refreshments, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience throughout.

Speak to our Bolivia travel expert today

Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights

  • Upgrade or change your hotels .
  • Add or remove attractions.
  • Stay longer in some locations.
  • Let us make it perfect for you.

A Tour Tailored to You

Tailor-Made for Your Rhythm

While this 14-day itinerary offers a masterfully balanced journey through Bolivia’s most iconic highlights, we understand that every traveller’s pace and style are entirely unique. At Earth Trip, we specialise in transforming this classic route into an experience crafted precisely around you.

  • Slower Paces & Extended Discovery: If you wish to spend more time adjusting to the altitude or capturing the shifting light across the salt crust, this tour can easily be extended. We can add extra nights on the edge of the Salar de Uyuni or plan a dedicated rest day in the spring-like climate of Sucre, ensuring you travel in complete comfort without ever feeling rushed.

  • Your Choice of Character-Rich Accommodation: The properties we have recommended—from the striking, art-focused Atix Hotel in La Paz to the extraordinary, hand-sculpted salt blocks of Palacio de Sal—are our top choices for authentic style and high-end private comfort. However, we can seamlessly swap any stay to align with your personal preferences, whether you prefer an ultra-exclusive private suite, a historic colonial estate, or an eco-conscious desert retreat.

  • Flexible Private Customisation: Every excursion, private tour, and scenic drive is completely fluid. If you prefer an unhurried morning exploring local artisan weavers in Sucre over a museum visit, or wish to remain on the salt flats past twilight for private sunset drinks, your dedicated chauffeur-guide will adapt the day entirely to your daily energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, absolutely. Children find the surreal expanses of the salt flats, the abandoned steam locomotives at the Train Cemetery, and private boat rides across Lake Titicaca to be incredibly exciting adventures. Because we travel exclusively by premium private transport, we can easily adjust driving times, incorporate frequent rest stops, and ensure your vehicle is perfectly equipped with child seats and plenty of cold refreshments.

2. Can I change the hotels in the itinerary?

Without a doubt. While we selectively partner with boutique properties like Atix and Palacio de Sal for their exceptional character, service, and strategic locations, we can customize your accommodation entirely. If you have a specific luxury brand, an intimate historic casona, or a private luxury villa in mind, we will masterfully integrate it into your route.

3. What is the best time of year to see the “Mirror Effect” on the salt flats?

To witness the spectacular mirror reflections, the best time to visit is during the summer rainy season, typically from January to March, when a thin layer of water covers the salt crust. However, if you prefer to explore the infinite, geometric white salt desert and reach isolated outposts like Incahuasi Island, the dry winter window from May to October delivers crisp, bright days and optimal driving conditions.

4. How much walking is involved in this itinerary?

The physical exertion is entirely up to you. Most of your landscape exploration—especially across the vast Altiplano and the Salar de Uyuni—is done from the absolute comfort of your private 4×4 or climate-controlled vehicle. Historic sites like the Tiwanaku ruins and the paths on Isla del Sol do involve walking over uneven stone terrain, but your private guide will ensure you move at a relaxed, steady pace tailored perfectly to your comfort.

5. How does the high altitude affect the journey?

The elevation in the Bolivian Andes is significant, which is exactly why we design our itineraries with specialized pacing. By housing you in the lower-lying Zona Sur of La Paz upon arrival and descending into the gentle Mediterranean climate of Sucre early in the trip, we allow your body to adapt naturally. Your private guide is always on hand with traditional remedies and refreshments, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience throughout.