Let me cut to the chase: I’ve been leading tours in Bolivia for over 10 years, and if you’re only here for 7 days, you can’t see everything. Period. This country’s too big, too wild, and most of it’s way up in the mountains—you can’t rush it. But don’t stress. I’m gonna give you two no-bullshit itineraries that hit the absolute best parts: the Uyuni Salt Flats (you know, the famous Sky Mirror) is non-negotiable. Then you pick one extra: either high-altitude lakes with flamingos or Lake Titicaca’s Inca history. No fancy jargon, no over-the-top promises—just real, actionable plans that work for travelers from anywhere, whether you’re coming from the US, Europe, or elsewhere in South America. I’ll tell you where to sleep, what to eat, how to get around, and what to watch out for (spoiler: altitude sickness is no joke). Let’s dive in.
First, The Basics (You Gotta Know This Before You Go)
Before we get to the day-by-day, let’s cover the stuff that’ll save you headaches. Bolivia isn’t like other tourist spots—no smooth roads, no 24/7 Wi-Fi, and the altitude will knock you on your ass if you’re not careful. Here’s the quick lowdown:
Visa: Most travelers (US, EU, Canada, Australia, etc.) can get a visa on arrival at La Paz’s El Alto Airport for around $100 USD. Pro tip: Bring a passport with at least 6 months left, a round-trip ticket, and a hotel booking—they’ll ask for it. If you want to play it safe, get a visa at a Bolivian consulate in a third country (like Peru or Brazil) beforehand; it’s cheaper, around $50 USD. And don’t bring a beat-up passport or crumpled cash—they’re weird about that here.
Flights: The main international airport is El Alto International Airport (LPB) in La Paz. Most people fly in via Lima (Peru), Santiago (Chile), or Madrid (Spain)—direct flights from North America or Europe are rare. For domestic flights, stick to Boliviana de Aviación (BOA)—they’re the most reliable, but book early. I’ve seen tourists show up 3 days before their flight to Uyuni and find zero seats left. Trust me, don’t wait.
Altitude: This is make-or-break. La Paz is 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level, Uyuni is 3,650 meters, and the high-altitude lakes hit 4,500-5,000 meters. The air has about 70% of the oxygen you’re used to. No running, no heavy lifting, no hot showers on day 1 (you’ll pass out—seriously). Drink coca tea (it’s legal here, and it works) and take it slow. If you get a bad headache, dizziness, or nausea, don’t tough it out—find a clinic or use an oxygen tank. I’ve had tourists refuse to slow down and end up in the hospital; don’t be that person.
Money: We use Bolivianos (BOB). 1 USD is roughly 6.9 BOB, 1 Euro is about 7.5 BOB (check the rate before you go—it fluctuates). Bring fresh, unwrinkled US dollars to exchange—local banks and exchange offices won’t take crumpled or marked bills. You can’t exchange other currencies (like Euros or Pesos) as easily, so stick to USD. ATMs work in La Paz and Uyuni, but they run out of cash often—carry enough cash for your trips to the salt flats or lakes.
Best Time to Visit: For the Sky Mirror (Uyuni Salt Flats), go during the rainy season (December to March). The salt flat gets a thin layer of water, and it reflects the sky perfectly—like walking on a cloud. Dry season (April to November) is better if you want to drive on the salt, take photos of the cracked white salt crust, and avoid mud. Lake Titicaca is good year-round, but dry season (May to October) is less rainy and more comfortable. And heads up: if you go during rainy season (September to March), watch out for landslides—parts of the road to Copacabana can get blocked.
Two 7-Day Itineraries: Pick Your Adventure
Like I said, 7 days isn’t enough for everything. So choose one: Route 1 is for nature freaks and photographers who want to chase the Sky Mirror and high-altitude lakes with flamingos. Route 2 is for people who want a mix of nature and culture—Sky Mirror plus Lake Titicaca’s Inca ruins. Both are doable, both are amazing, and both skip the tourist traps. Let’s start with Route 1.
Route 1: Sky Mirror + High-Altitude Lakes (3 Days in Uyuni)
Best for: Photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who doesn’t mind a little bumpy ride (okay, a lot of bumpy rides). This route is all about raw, unfiltered Bolivian wilderness—think white salt flats, pink flamingos, and rainbow-colored lakes. Warning: It’s high, it’s rough, but it’s worth every sore muscle.
Day 1: Arrive in La Paz – Acclimate & Ride the World’s Highest Cable Car
Your first day is all about surviving the altitude. Don’t try to do too much—your body needs time to adjust. When you land at El Alto Airport, take a taxi to the city center (15-20 minutes, 80-100 BOB). Don’t take the random taxis outside the airport—ask the hotel to send a driver, or use Uber (it works in La Paz and is safer). Trust me, the random taxis will try to overcharge you, especially if you’re a tourist.
Check into your hotel, drop your bags, and drink a cup of coca tea. Most hotels serve it for free—drink as much as you want. Then, take a nap. I know, you’re excited to explore, but napping will help with the altitude. Skip the hot shower today—save it for tomorrow. Hot water makes you breathe harder, and you don’t want to risk passing out in the shower.
In the afternoon, head to Mi Teleférico—the world’s highest and longest urban cable car system. It’s not a tourist attraction; it’s how locals get around. The main line goes from the city center (Red Line) up to El Alto, which is 4,100 meters above sea level. The views are insane—you’ll see the entire city spread out below, with the Andes Mountains in the background. A one-way ticket is 3 BOB (less than $1)—total steal. Pro tip: Don’t stand near the edge if you’re scared of heights, and follow the rules—no leaning out, no shaking the car, and listen to the staff if the cable stops (it happens sometimes, and it’s totally safe)[7].
Where to Stay: Camino Real Suites (mid-range, 350-450 BOB per night) is in the city center, 10 minutes’ walk from the cable car. It’s clean, has good Wi-Fi, and the staff speaks English. If you’re on a budget, Hotel Catedral La Paz (150-200 BOB per night) is basic but clean, and right near the main square. Avoid hotels in El Alto—they’re too high, and you’ll struggle with altitude.
Where to Eat: For a fancy treat, go to Gustu—Bolivia’s best restaurant, ranked in Latin America’s Top 50. They serve high-end dishes made with local ingredients, like llama tartare (yes, it’s good—lean, flavorful, and healthier than beef). A three-course meal is around 350-400 BOB (about $50-58 USD)—splurge-worthy for one night. If you don’t want to spend that much, hit up Bolivian Popular Food (80-100 BOB per person) near the main square. They have a fixed menu—two options, usually chicken or beef with rice and veggies. The bread and fried plantains are fire, and it’s filling.
What to Watch Out For: Don’t drink alcohol tonight—alcohol + altitude = terrible headache. Don’t eat too much—your stomach works slower at high altitude. And if you feel dizzy, sit down, drink water, and chew some coca leaves (you can buy them at local markets for 5 BOB a bag).
Day 2: La Paz Old Town – Witches Market, Churches & Moon Valley
You should feel a little better today—your body’s starting to adjust. Take it easy, but you can explore the old town. Start your morning at San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco), one of La Paz’s oldest and most beautiful churches. It’s got colorful colonial architecture, inside and out, and it’s free to enter. Go early (9 AM) to avoid the crowds—tourists start pouring in around 10:30.
Right next to the church is the Witches Market (Mercado de las Brujas)—don’t worry, there are no real witches here. It’s a traditional Andean market where shamans sell herbs, amulets, and yes, dried llama fetuses (they’re used in local rituals, not for tourists). It’s weird, it’s fascinating, and it’s a great place to take photos. Don’t touch the llama fetuses—locals find it disrespectful. You can buy small souvenirs here, like coca leaf tea bags or handwoven bracelets, but haggle—vendors will overcharge tourists. A fair price for a bracelet is 10-15 BOB, not 50.
Lunch time: Head to Pizza Rialta La Casa del Viajero (Calle Linares 888). It’s a small, family-run spot that serves pizza with a Bolivian twist—try the pepperoni and llama pizza (trust me, it’s good). A large pizza is 60-80 BOB, enough for two people. If you want local food, go to Restaurant 1700 (Calle Linares 906)—their quinoa soup is a must. Quinoa is a staple here, and this soup is warm, comforting, and perfect for altitude. A bowl is 25 BOB, and you can add a side of grilled chicken for 30 BOB.
In the afternoon, take a taxi to Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna)—15 minutes from the old town, 50-60 BOB one way. It’s a weird, otherworldly landscape of wind-eroded rock formations that look like the moon. Hence the name. Hike the short trail (1-2 hours) to the top—you’ll get amazing views of the valley and La Paz in the distance. Wear comfortable shoes—the trail is rocky. And bring sunscreen—it’s sunny and dry here, even in rainy season.
On your way back to the city, stop at Plaza Murillo—the heart of La Paz. It’s where the presidential palace and congress are located. Sit on a bench, watch the locals go about their day, and people-watch. Avoid the street vendors who try to sell you tourist junk—just say “no gracias” and keep walking.
Where to Eat Dinner: Grab a quick bite at a street food stall near the main square. Try salteñas—Bolivia’s version of empanadas. They’re filled with meat, potatoes, and spices, and they’re hot and crispy. A salteña is 5 BOB—perfect for a snack or light dinner. If you want something more substantial, go to Cafe del Mundo (Calle Sagarnaga 324)—they have international food, like burgers and salads, and good coffee. A burger is 40-50 BOB.
Day 3: Fly to Uyuni – Sky Mirror Sunset & Starry Skies
Sleep in—you deserve it. Spend the morning exploring the old town a little more, or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Pick up a bottle of water and some snacks for the flight—airplane food in Bolivia is terrible. Then, head to La Paz’s domestic airport (it’s separate from the international airport—10 minutes by taxi, 40 BOB) for your flight to Uyuni. The flight is 1 hour, and BOA flights are usually on time (most of the time). A one-way ticket is 800-1,000 BOB—book early to get the best price.
When you land in Uyuni, you’ll notice it’s even drier and windier than La Paz. Uyuni town is small—just a few streets, a market, and lots of tour agencies. Don’t waste time exploring the town—head straight to the salt flats. Grab a taxi from the airport to your hotel (5 minutes, 20 BOB), drop your bags, and book a 4×4 tour to the salt flats for sunset. Every tour agency in town offers this—just walk around and compare prices. A private tour (for 2-4 people) is 300-500 BOB; a group tour (6-8 people) is 150-200 BOB per person. Book with a local agency—they know the best spots for sunset, and they’re cheaper than international tour companies.
The drive to the salt flats is 20-30 minutes. If you’re there during rainy season (December-March), you’ll see the famous Sky Mirror—water covering the salt, reflecting the sky so perfectly you can’t tell where the sky ends and the salt begins. It’s magical. If you’re there during dry season (April-November), the salt is cracked and white, like a giant ice field. Both are beautiful—just different.
Stay for sunset—colors go from pink to orange to purple, and it’s one of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see. After sunset, if the sky is clear, ask your driver to take you to the middle of the salt flats. Turn off all the lights, and look up—you’ll see the Milky Way in all its glory, bright enough to cast shadows. It’s insane—no light pollution here, just stars as far as the eye can see.
Where to Stay: Hostal Magic Uyuni (200-250 BOB per night) is my go-to. It’s a small, cozy hostel with a homey vibe—like staying with friends. The breakfast is amazing (fresh bread, eggs, fruit, coffee), and they’ll pack you a breakfast box if you have an early tour. If you want something unique, stay at Casa de Sal—an entire hotel made of salt bricks. The walls, beds, and even the tables are made of salt. It’s cool, but it’s a bit pricey (400-500 BOB per night) and basic—no TV, and the walls are rough. Also, don’t lick the walls—hotel staff will get mad, and it’s rude (plus, it makes the walls thinner).
Where to Eat: Uyuni town has lots of small restaurants. Try Restaurant El Desierto (Calle Principal 123)—they serve local food, like llama steak and quinoa salad. A meal is 30-40 BOB. Avoid the restaurants near the bus station—they’re overpriced and the food is bad. If you’re hungry after the sunset tour, grab a sandwich from a convenience store (10-15 BOB).
Day 4: Uyuni Salt Flats Full Day Tour – Train Cemetery & Cactus Island
Wake up early—your tour will start around 8 AM. Most tours include breakfast, so eat up—you’ll be on the go all day. Today’s tour covers the best parts of the salt flats: Train Cemetery, Colchani Village, and Cactus Island. You’ll need a 4×4 cross country vehicle—regular cars can’t handle the rough terrain. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel, and you’ll spend the day driving across the salt flats.
First stop: Train Cemetery (Cementerio de Trenes). In the late 1800s, Bolivia built trains to transport salt and minerals, but the project failed, and the trains were abandoned. Now, rusted locomotives and train cars sit in the middle of the desert, surrounded by salt flats. It’s like a scene from Mad Max—gritty, eerie, and perfect for photos. Climb on the trains (it’s allowed), but be careful—some parts are rusted and unstable.
Next stop: Colchani Village. This small village is home to salt workers who have been making salt bricks for centuries. Watch them work—they scrape the salt from the flats, dry it in the sun, and press it into bricks. You can buy salt souvenirs here—salt lamps, salt shakers, even salt jewelry. A salt lamp is 50-100 BOB, depending on the size. Don’t buy too much—salt is heavy, and you’ll have to carry it back home.
Lunch: Your tour will include lunch at a “salt restaurant” on the salt flats. The tables, chairs, and even the plates are made of salt. The food is simple—chicken, rice, and salad—but the experience is cool. It’s not the best food you’ll eat in Bolivia, but it’s worth it for the novelty. Drink lots of water—you’ll be sweating, and the salt air is dehydrating.
After lunch, head to Cactus Island (Isla Incahuasi). This small island in the middle of the salt flats is covered in giant cacti—some are over 10 meters tall (33 feet). Hike the trail to the top of the island (20-30 minutes)—the views are incredible. You’ll see the salt flats stretching as far as the eye can see, with the Andes Mountains in the distance. Wear a hat and sunscreen—the sun is brutal here, and the cacti don’t provide much shade.
Head back to Uyuni town around 5 PM. You’ll be tired—this is a long day—but it’s worth it. Grab a shower (hot water is okay now, since you’re acclimated) and rest for a bit. For dinner, go to Restaurant La Casona (Calle Principal 456)—they serve good grilled llama and local beer. A meal with a beer is 50-60 BOB.
What to Watch Out For: Bring sunglasses— the salt reflects sunlight, and you’ll go blind if you don’t wear them. Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking on salt, which is rough and sharp. And don’t step on the salt crust too hard—some parts are thin, and you’ll sink into the mud (especially in rainy season).
Day 5: High-Altitude Lakes Tour – Flamingos & Rainbow Lakes
Today is the most challenging day—altitude-wise. You’ll be heading to Eduardo Abaroa National Reserve, where the altitude hits 4,500-5,000 meters. Start early (7 AM) —the drive is 3-4 hours each way, and you want to get back before dark. Your tour will include a 4×4 cross country vehicle and a driver who knows the area—don’t try to do this on your own. The roads are bumpy, unpaved, and there’s no cell service for most of the way. A full-day tour is 800-1,000 BOB for a private group, 400-500 BOB per person for a group tour.
First stop: Laguna Colorada (Red Lake). This lake is famous for its deep red color, caused by algae in the water. It’s stunning—bright red water, surrounded by white salt and snow-capped mountains. And there are hundreds of pink flamingos here—James’s flamingos, which are rare. They wade in the lake, feeding on the algae, and they’re not scared of tourists (but don’t get too close—they’ll fly away). Take lots of photos—this is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Bolivia.
Next, you’ll drive to Laguna Verde (Green Lake) and Laguna Blanca (White Lake). Laguna Verde is green because of minerals in the water, and Laguna Blanca is white because of salt deposits. Each lake has a different color, and the contrast is amazing. Stop at each one, take photos, and breathe in the fresh (thin) air. The drive between the lakes is bumpy—hold on tight, and if you get carsick, take a motion sickness pill (you should have brought some).
Lunch: Your tour will include a packed lunch—usually a sandwich, fruit, and a bottle of water. It’s not fancy, but it’s filling. Eat slowly—digestion is slower at high altitude. Drink lots of water, and chew coca leaves if you start to feel lightheaded. This is the highest point of the trip, so altitude sickness can hit hard—if you feel really bad, tell your driver, and they’ll take you back to Uyuni.
Head back to Uyuni town around 4 PM. You’ll be exhausted—this day is long, and the altitude takes a toll. Rest for the evening, and eat a light dinner. Try Restaurant El Saltador (Calle Principal 789)—they serve soup and sandwiches, perfect for a tired stomach. A bowl of soup is 25 BOB.
What to Watch Out For: Bring a mask—dry season brings lots of dust, and the wind will blow it in your face. Wear layers—temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F) in the reserve, even in summer. And don’t wander off—there’s no cell service, and you can get lost easily. Stick with your group and your driver.
Day 6: Uyuni to La Paz – Last-Minute Souvenirs & Relaxation
Sleep in—you’ve earned it. Spend the morning exploring Uyuni town. Check out the local market—you can buy handwoven textiles, salt souvenirs, and coca tea. The market is small, but it’s a good place to pick up last-minute gifts. Don’t forget to haggle—vendors will ask for double the price for tourists.
Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a street food stall—try anticuchos (grilled meat skewers). They’re 5 BOB each, and they’re delicious. Pair them with a cold soda (Inca Kola is the local favorite—sweet, yellow, and tastes like bubblegum).
Head to Uyuni’s airport for your flight back to La Paz (1 hour, 800-1,000 BOB). When you land in La Paz, take a taxi to your hotel (same one as Day 1, or a new one—your call). Check in, drop your bags, and relax. You can take a hot shower now—you’re fully acclimated. If you have energy, go for a walk around the main square, but don’t stay out too late.
Where to Eat Dinner: Treat yourself to Gustu again, or try Cafe del Mundo. If you want something casual, go to a local pizzeria—Pizza Rialta has another location near the main square. A large pizza is 60-80 BOB, and they deliver to most hotels.
Day 7: Departure – Say Goodbye to Bolivia
Today is your last day. Depending on your flight time, wake up early. Take a taxi to El Alto International Airport—arrive 3 hours early for international flights. Security is slow, and you’ll need time to go through customs. Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa, and flight ticket. If you have any leftover Bolivianos, exchange them back to USD at the airport (but you’ll get a bad rate—better to spend them on souvenirs or food).
Before you leave, drink one last cup of coca tea—you’ll miss it. And take one last look at the Andes Mountains—they’re stunning, and you’ll never forget them. Bolivia is a tough country to travel in, but it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. You’ll leave with sore muscles, a tan, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Route 2: Sky Mirror + Lake Titicaca (Nature & Culture)
Best for: Travelers who want to mix nature with culture. You still get the Sky Mirror, but you also get to explore Lake Titicaca—the highest navigable lake in the world—and its Inca ruins. This route is less intense than Route 1—fewer bumpy rides, lower altitude (sort of), and more time to relax. Days 1-2 are the same as Route 1, so I’ll skip those and start with Day 3.
Day 3: La Paz to Copacabana – Lake Titicaca & Sun Island
Wake up early—your bus to Copacabana leaves at 8 AM. Take a taxi to La Paz’s bus station (10 minutes, 40 BOB). The bus ride is 3.5 hours, and it’s relatively smooth (compared to the Uyuni lakes tour). A one-way ticket is 100-120 BOB. Take the bus with Trans Copacabana—they’re reliable, and the buses have AC (sort of). Bring a book or a podcast—the ride is scenic, but it’s long.
Copacabana is a small town on the shores of Lake Titicaca, at 3,800 meters above sea level. It’s quieter than La Paz, and the air is a little fresher (but still thin). Check into your hotel, drop your bags, and grab a quick snack—try a salteña from a street stall (5 BOB).
In the afternoon, take a boat to Sun Island (Isla del Sol)—the largest island in Lake Titicaca. The boat ride is 1 hour, and a round-trip ticket is 50 BOB. Sun Island is famous for being the birthplace of the Inca civilization—legend says the sun god was born here. The island is covered in Inca ruins, and it’s a great place to hike.
Hike to Pilkokaina Ruins—an Inca temple at the top of the island. The hike is 30 minutes, and it’s steep, but the views are worth it. You’ll see Lake Titicaca stretching out below, with Peru on the other side (yes, the lake borders Peru and Bolivia). The ruins are simple—stone walls and terraces—but they’re full of history. Take your time exploring, and listen to the local guides (they’ll tell you stories about the Incas for a small tip, 10-15 BOB).
Head back to Copacabana around 5 PM. Watch the sunset over Lake Titicaca—it’s beautiful, with the lake turning orange and pink. Sit on the shore, and watch the locals fish in their traditional boats. It’s a peaceful way to end the day.
Where to Stay: Palacio del Inca Lodge (300-400 BOB per night) is a nice, mid-range hotel in the center of town. It’s clean, has good Wi-Fi, and the staff speaks English. If you’re on a budget, there are lots of small hostels near the lake—Hostal Lake View (150-200 BOB per night) is basic but clean, and it has a great view of the lake.
Where to Eat: Eat at a local restaurant near the lake—try trucha (trout), which is caught fresh from Lake Titicaca. It’s usually grilled, with fried plantains and rice. A meal is 50-80 BOB. My favorite spot is Restaurant El Lago (Calle Lakeside 123)—the trout is perfectly cooked, and the view of the lake is amazing. Wash it down with a local beer (Cerveza Paceña is the most popular).
Day 4: Moon Island – Quiet Beauty & Back to La Paz
Wake up early and take a boat to Moon Island (Isla de la Luna)—Sun Island’s quieter sister. The boat ride is 30 minutes, and a round-trip ticket is 40 BOB. Moon Island is smaller than Sun Island, and it has fewer tourists—perfect if you want to escape the crowds. It’s home to the Temple of the Moon, an Inca temple where female priests used to worship the moon god.
Hike around the island—it’s a 1-2 hour walk, and the trail is easy. The views of Lake Titicaca are even better here—clear, blue water, with the Andes Mountains in the background. There are a few small villages on the island—say hello to the locals, they’re friendly. You can buy handwoven textiles from them—they’re cheaper than in Copacabana.
Head back to Copacabana around 12 PM. Grab lunch at a local restaurant—try quinoa soup and grilled chicken (30-40 BOB). Then, take the bus back to La Paz (3.5 hours, 100-120 BOB). The last bus leaves Copacabana at 5 PM—don’t miss it, or you’ll be stuck in Copacabana for the night. The bus ride back is scenic, but you’ll probably be tired—take a nap.
When you get back to La Paz, check into your hotel and relax. For dinner, go to Cafe del Mundo—they have good food and a relaxed atmosphere. A salad and a sandwich is 40-50 BOB. If you’re tired, order room service—most hotels offer it.
Day 5: La Paz to Uyuni – Sky Mirror Sunset
This day is the same as Route 1’s Day 3. Sleep in, explore La Paz’s old town, then fly to Uyuni (1 hour, 800-1,000 BOB). Book a sunset tour to the salt flats, watch the Sky Mirror, and stay for the stars. Stay at Hostal Magic Uyuni or Casa de Sal, and eat dinner at a local restaurant in Uyuni town.
Day 6: Uyuni Salt Flats Full Day Tour
Same as Route 1’s Day 4. Take a full-day tour of the salt flats, visit the Train Cemetery, Colchani Village, and Cactus Island. Eat lunch at a salt restaurant, and head back to Uyuni town in the evening. Rest and eat a light dinner.
Day 7: Uyuni to La Paz – Departure
Same as Route 1’s Day 7. Sleep in, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Uyuni, fly back to La Paz, and head to the airport for your flight. Say goodbye to Bolivia—you’ll be back.
Final Tips (I Swear, These Will Save You)
I’ve seen a lot of tourists make mistakes here—don’t be one of them. Here’s the stuff I wish I could tell every traveler before they arrive:
1. Pack smart: Bring layers (base layer, fleece, windbreaker), waterproof hiking boots, sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, a hat, and a scarf (for dust and cold). Don’t bring too many clothes—laundry is cheap in Bolivia (20-30 BOB per load). Bring a reusable water bottle—tap water is safe to drink in La Paz and Uyuni, but it’s better to buy bottled water in remote areas.
2. Stay safe: Don’t walk alone at night, especially in La Paz’s dark alleys or Uyuni’s isolated streets. Keep your valuables (passport, phone, cash) in a money belt under your clothes. Use Uber or hotel taxis—avoid random street taxis. And if you see a protest or demonstration, stay away—they can get rowdy.
3. Wi-Fi and phone service: Buy a local SIM card at the airport (Entel or Tigo—they have the best coverage). A SIM card with data is 50-100 BOB for a week. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants in La Paz and Uyuni, but it’s slow. And forget about Wi-Fi in the salt flats or high-altitude lakes—there’s no signal, so enjoy the peace and quiet.
4.tip: Tipping is optional, but it’s appreciated. In restaurants, leave 5-10% if the service is good (check the bill—some places include service). Leave 10-20 BOB for hotel housekeeping. For tour guides and drivers, leave 50-100 BOB per day—they work hard, and it’s a small way to say thank you.
5. Don’t rush: Bolivia is not a country to rush through. Take your time, enjoy the views, and talk to the locals. They’re friendly, and they’ll tell you stories you won’t find in any guidebook. And if you feel tired, take a nap—altitude makes you exhausted, and there’s no shame in resting.
Bolivia isn’t for everyone. It’s rough, it’s unpredictable, and it will test you. But if you’re willing to slow down and embrace the chaos, you’ll find beauty you never imagined. The Sky Mirror, the high-altitude lakes, the Inca ruins, and the people—they’re all worth it. I’ve been here for 10 years, and I still get chills every time I see the Sky Mirror at sunset. I hope you do too.
