landlocked Bolivia

After breakfast, transfer to the archaeological site of Tiwanaku. This excursion takes you back in time for an encounter with the history and traditions of the Andean world. Dating to around 3,000 BC, Tiwanaku is regarded as one of South America’s oldest civilisations and is located approximately 11⁄2 hours from La Paz via paved road.
 
At the site, visit the museum, the Kalasasaya Temple, the Semi-Subterranean Temple with its carved stone tenon heads set into the walls, and the iconic Sun Gate. Continue to Puma Punku, a temple complex situated just outside the main archaeological area. Originally a terraced earthen mound faced with massive megalithic stone blocks (some weighing several dozen tons), Puma Punku is renowned for its extraordinary precision, with joints so exact that not even a razor blade can pass between the stones. Some blocks feature remarkably fine, machine-like finishes and perfectly drilled holes.

After the visit, return to La Paz (private service with an English-speaking guide). Lunch is included. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel.

At 9:00 a.m., we depart for the Purple cable car station and begin our ride, connecting to the Silver line for an eight-minute journey
running parallel between the two cities. After another transfer, we board the Yellow line, pausing first at a scenic viewpoint for
photos before gliding once more above La Paz toward the lowest area of this Andean metropolis. We then switch to the Green line,
enjoying further panoramic views of the city.

Next, we visit the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna), a striking natural formation sculpted by wind and erosion. The tour continues through the residential neighbourhoods of the southern district, followed by a stop at the Killi Killi viewpoint, which offers sweeping views over much of La Paz.

We then proceed to the historic Jaén Street and Plaza Murillo, home to important landmarks including the Government Palace, the Senate, and
the Metropolitan Cathedral. The excursion concludes with a visit to the Indian Market and the Witches’ Market, where you can browse for
souvenirs or traditional good-luck charms. 

Private transfer back to the hotel with an English-speaking guide. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Uyuni (private service with a Spanish-speaking driver). Upon arrival, depart from Uyuni by road, passing through the village of San Cristóbal, which was entirely relocated, including its church, to make way for one of the largest mines in the world. Continue southwest across the desert landscapes of Río Grande and Villa Mar toward Laguna Colorada, entering the protected Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve. Along the way, there are excellent chances to spot graceful wild vicuñas, foxes, and other native Andean wildlife.

Arrive at the Sol de Mañana geysers at their most active time, illuminated by the first morning light. This is the highest point of the journey, reaching 5,000 meters above sea level. Continue to the “Ladies of the Desert, ” remarkable rock formations sculpted by wind erosion.
Travel north into the Siloli Desert and return to the Red Lagoon (Laguna Colorada), the principal nesting site for flamingos. The lagoon’s striking red hue and the pink tones of the flamingos result from the interaction of sunlight and wind with the algae and plankton in the water. After a brief stop for photos, continue to the Stone Tree formation and observe yaretas and vizcachas (Andean desert hares).

Arrive at Ojo de Perdiz by late afternoon. Enjoy a welcome dinner at your desert hotel and overnight at one of the highest locations on the Altiplano (private 4x4 service with an English-speaking guide).

Dinner included.

Overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast lunch and Dinner

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Uyuni (private service with a Spanish-speaking driver). Upon arrival, you will be privately transferred to your hotel with a Spanish-speaking driver. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Private transfer to the airport with a Spanish-speaking driver.

Meal Plan: Breakfast