Bolivia by Latventure
Bolivia
Bolivia is the highest-lying and perhaps most unspoilt country in South America – full of contrasts between the high Andes, tropical rainforest and indigenous culture. Covering 1.1 million km², it combines extreme nature with deeply rooted traditions. The Altiplano at 3,500–4,000 m shapes the west; this is where La Paz is located – at 3,600 m, one of the highest capitals in the world.
Natural wonders such as the Salar de Uyuni, colourful lagoons, geysers and volcanoes create surreal landscapes of unique beauty. In the east, the Amazon attracts visitors with lush green diversity, for example in Madidi National Park. Colonial cities such as Sucre and Potosí tell the story of the country’s eventful past.
More than 30 indigenous peoples shape everyday life, language and festivals – from traditional pollera dress to coca chewing. Bolivia is intense, authentic and emotional – a South America far from the mainstream for explorers with a genuine curiosity for the original and the real.
Good to know
Bolivia lies in the heart of South America – a landlocked country of contrasts: from the surreal Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the barren Altiplano highlands to the tropical Amazon lowlands around Santa Cruz. The country captivates with an unspoilt culture, more than 30 indigenous groups, colourful markets and living traditions. Adventurous travellers experience South America away from the crowds – intense, rugged and real. An ideal destination for tailor-made journeys or guided small-group tours.
Flight connections
Direct flights to Bolivia are only available in a few cases – for example with Air Europa from Madrid to Santa Cruz (VVI). Most travellers arrive via Lima, Bogotá or São Paulo. La Paz (LPB) and Cochabamba (CBB) are regional airports, ideal for round trips. Domestic flights can save time. Google Flights helps with international and domestic flight searches.
Entry requirements
Travellers from the D|A|CH region can enter Bolivia visa-free for up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for six months upon entry. A return ticket is rarely required. If arriving from yellow-fever risk countries, proof of vaccination is required – and it is generally recommended for the Amazon region. Extensions of stay are easily possible locally. Always check that you receive an entry stamp.
Best time to travel
For the highlands (La Paz, Uyuni, Lake Titicaca), May to October are considered ideal travel months: dry, sunny and cold at night. In Uyuni, temperatures can drop to –20°C. February/March, on the other hand, offers the famous mirror effect on the salt flats. In the lowlands it is hot year-round; June to August are the most pleasant. For combined trips, May–September is recommended, with April/October as good shoulder seasons.
Safety
Health
Altitude is a key factor – when arriving in La Paz, take it easy, drink plenty of water and try coca tea. In the Amazon lowlands, dengue and malaria can be an issue – mosquito protection is essential and yellow fever vaccination is recommended. Avoid tap water and be cautious with street food. Good private clinics are available in cities; for rural areas, a small travel medical kit is recommended. Please consult up-to-date information, e.g. healthytravel.ch .
Top 10 travel highlights
Sajama National Park
A remote Andean paradise featuring Bolivia’s highest peak (6,542 m), thermal springs, geysers, Polylepis forests and vicuñas. Starting point: the village of Sajama (4,200 m). Ideal for trekking and mountaineers, far from mass tourism.
Toro Toro National Park
Spectacular canyons, caves and dinosaur footprints make Toro Toro (2,800 m) an adventure destination. Highlights include the Vergel Gorge, Umajalanta Cave and Ciudad de Itas. Accessible only with a guide – perfect for explorers with a passion for geology and nature.
Madidi National Park & Chalalán Lodge
Located in Bolivia’s biodiverse Amazon region. Jungle trails, giant ceiba trees, monkeys, caimans and starry skies. Chalalán Lodge is sustainable and run by indigenous communities – adventurous, comfortable and authentic, ideal for nature lovers.
Death Road mountain biking
Bolivia’s cult adventure: 64 km by bike from 4,700 m down steep gravel roads, past waterfalls and through cloud forest into the Yungas valley. Adrenaline, panoramas and tropical vibes – pure thrill on what was once the world’s most dangerous road.
Tiwanaku (Tiahuanaco)
Pre-Inca ruins near Lake Titicaca with monoliths, pyramids and the Gate of the Sun. A high civilisation (1500 BC–1000 AD) full of mystery and spirituality. Best time: the winter solstice with Aymara rituals.
Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitania
UNESCO-protected mission towns in eastern Bolivia: baroque churches with indigenous woodwork, music and colonial flair. Particularly worth seeing: Concepción and San Xavier, with a festival every two years. Easily reached from Santa Cruz.
Potosí Mint & mine tour
In Potosí (4,067 m), colonial history meets harsh reality. The Casa de la Moneda reveals Bolivia’s silver legacy, while a mine tour in Cerro Rico takes you deep into active tunnels – powerful, unsettling and not for the claustrophobic.
Valle de las Ánimas (La Paz)
A mystical rock valley just outside La Paz: bizarre clay and sandstone pillars create a surreal landscape. Ideal for quiet hikes, especially in evening light. A hidden gem for nature fans – almost deserted and truly impressive.
Amboró National Park
A hidden gem west of Santa Cruz: cloud forests, giant anteaters, parrots and ancient fern forests. Ideal for nature lovers, with tours from Samaipata or Buena Vista. A paradise for bird and wildlife watching.
Laguna Verde & Laguna Colorada
Striking highland lagoons in southwest Bolivia: the red Laguna Colorada with flamingos and the emerald-green Laguna Verde against a volcanic backdrop. Surreal, photogenic and extreme – a natural highlight in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve.
Featured Journeys
11 days | 10 nights
Puerto Iguazú | Calama 
3 days | 2 nights
San Pedro de Atacama | Uyuni 