Andean Emotions
Salt Flats & Wild Puna 12 days Charm & Character

Andean Emotions

From the Altiplano to the multicolored lagoons and the Salar d'Uyuni, a Bolivian crossing between silver mines and Andean traditions.

From€4,990per person
15 years of local expertise4.61/5 (44 reviews including 43 Google)

Duration

12 days

From

€4,990/pers.

Ideal seasons

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends, senior

The spirit of travel

You dream of exceptional days, flavors, human and culinary experiences… We have imagined for you a selection of unusual emotions and privileged moments in the heart of Bolivie.
You will set off on a 4x4 expedition across the wild highlands of Lipez, a fascinating territory where nature reveals all its power. You will discover lagoons with unreal colors, high-altitude deserts, steaming geysers and volcanoes with flamboyant hues. Adventure guaranteed! Let yourself be lulled by the raw and spectacular beauty of these timeless landscapes.
Throughout the journey, you will experience authentic encounters, taste local flavors and discover a secret Bolivie, far from the beaten path. Each stage will be an invitation to wonder and contemplation.
You will end this experience at the mythical Salar d'Uyuni, a unique place in the world where magic happens between sky and earth. The crowning point of this journey will be an unforgettable night in the magnificent domes of Kachi Lodge, located in the heart of the salar: a suspended moment, under a starry sky of exceptional purity… A rare and deeply memorable experience!

The stages of your journey

D1–2
La PazCasa Grande Hotel
D3–4
SucreOn Hotel
D5
PotosíHacienda Cayara
D6
UyuniUyuni Gardens
D7
Villamar MallcuMalku Cueva Gardens
D8
Tayka del DesiertoTayka del Desierto
D9
San Pedro de QuemezTayka de Piedra
D10
Salar d'UyuniKachi Lodge
D11–12
La PazCasa Grande Hotel

Highlights

Magic Night at Kachi Lodge
4x4 Expedition in the Lipez
Multicolored Lagoons and Pink Flamingos
Authentic Cultural Encounters
Moon Valley
Cooking and weaving workshops

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Arrival and visit to the Moon Valley (3600m alt.)

Arrival in La Paz, the world's highest administrative capital! Our driver takes us to our hotel located in the southern zone, the wealthy neighborhood of La Paz, at more clement altitudes. We enjoy this modern hotel which features designer decoration and has 2 bars as well as a spa and a huge indoor swimming pool. Let ourselves be tempted by a cocktail, perfect after a long journey to Bolivie!

The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the Valley of the Moon. A natural attraction of great beauty, whose creators are water and air which, through their erosive effects on the terrain, have created formations that resemble a lunar landscape. A little anecdote, it owes its name to American astronaut, Neil Armstrong, the first astronaut to walk on the moon.

Jour 2
D2

Discovery of La Paz (3600m alt.)

Departure by private vehicle to the historic city center of La Paz. In addition to our English-speaking guide, a "specialist" guide shows us the city from a different perspective. We take one of the many cable car lines in this lively city, the red line, and get off where our walking tour begins, the main cemetery. After a quick visit, we continue walking towards the Fish Market, the Flower Market and the famous Uruguay Market where we can see various animal species. The tour continues to Eloy Salmon Avenue, full of shops selling "high-tech" household appliances and the Cholitas Market where you can see the Cholitas (local women) buying traditional skirts and blankets. The tour ends at the famous Witches Market on Linares and Sagarnaga streets, where we will learn a little about the Andean worldview.

Departure to Ali Pacha restaurant. Contemporary and cozy, Ali Pacha is perfect for a culinary break.

After lunch, let's soak in the unique atmosphere of La Paz. Visit to Andean markets, the colonial quarter, museums, even cable cars!

The cherry on top: dinner at Gustu restaurant. A romantic evening with a sophisticated and authentic national and international "tasting" menu.

Casa Grande HotelLunchDinner
Jour 3
D3

Flight to Sucre and discovery (2790m alt.)

La PazSucre

45min450 km

Private vehicle transfer to El Alto airport for our La Paz - Sucre flight (variable times). Welcome by our driver at Alcantari airport and hotel check-in.

In the afternoon, meeting with our guide to visit the city with four names (Charcas, Chuquisaca, la Plata and Sucre, its most commonly used name). Sucre, the white city, listed by Unesco as a world heritage site, is in itself an open-air museum of what life was like during the colonial period. We visit the 25 de Mayo square, the Simon Bolivar park, the Recoleta Convent,, the ethnographic textile museum (ASUR) and the essential Casa de la Libertad (closed Sunday afternoon and Monday).

Evening at Peña Origenes.

On HotelBreakfastDinner
Jour 4
D4

Cuisine and Crafts in Sucre

Our guide takes us to the Central Market in Sucre to buy ingredients to prepare delicious typical recipes from Bolivie. In this colorful and fragrant market, we purchase the ingredients needed for our cooking workshop. Our guide also teaches us the ancestral traditions of Bolivian cuisine. Nothing better than Mani soup (Peanuts) and Quinoa Pastry, enjoy your meal !

After lunch, a traditional weaving workshop awaits us.

On HotelBreakfastLunch
Jour 5
D5

Discovery of a Bolivian hacienda in Potosí (4090m alt.)

SucrePotosí

3h160 km

Departure by private vehicle to reach the Museo Hacienda Cayara hotel located in the surroundings of the colonial city of Potosí.

Afternoon dedicated to visiting the agricultural farm of the Hacienda. A rich human experience full of emotions and cultural exchanges with the family living in the hacienda. We share moments of daily life on the farm, stroll around the surroundings in the City of Stone and finish with a visit to the museum.

Hacienda CayaraBreakfast
Jour 6
D6

Visit to Potosí and Road to Uyuni

PotosíUyuni

4h220 km

Short 4x4 drive to reach the city of Potosí and visit to the Casa de la Moneda, a museum that traces the city's history through silver coins that were produced there during Spanish times.

A small anecdote: the mask of the main patio was sculpted in 1850 by the French Eugenio Martínez Mulón. For some, it represents Diego Hualpa, the native who, according to legend, discovered the Cerro Rico vein. For others, it symbolizes Bacchus, the Greek god of wine and abundance. This is because of the bunches of grapes on its head.

Free lunch and departure by private vehicle to the city of Uyuni.

Uyuni GardensBreakfast
Jour 7
D7

Through the Valley of Rocks

Expedition by 4x4 vehicle. To start, we visit the Train Cemetery located on the outskirts of the city. Most of the trains in this cemetery date back to the early twentieth century and were imported from England to transport ore to Chile. Crossing San Cristobal, a village that was relocated following the arrival of a mining company. Discovery of the Valley of Rocks where erosion has created strange shapes several meters high. Some more notable than others, we can play at finding the resemblances! One of the rocks may have the shape of a World Cup or a camel.

Dinner and overnight stay at the Mallku Cueva ecolodge.

Malku Cueva GardensBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 8
D8

Between lagoons and desert

Our expedition today, by 4x4, will take us to discover the most beautiful Lagunas of the region. Journey to the Polques hot springs (4,000 m) where we have the opportunity to swim with beautiful views of Laguna Chalviri. Along the way, discover the famous "Dali Desert" with its supernatural landscapes in light ochre tones. Finally, we reach Laguna Blanca and especially Laguna Verde (4,300 m) with its emerald color and the Licancabur volcano in the background. We return by the same route before stopping at the "Sol de Mañana" site (4,850 m alt.), an area characterized by numerous geysers, fumaroles and mud pools. Arrival at Laguna Colorada which hosts numerous colonies of pink flamingos parading before our eyes.

Arrival at the Desert Hotel in late afternoon. Dinner and overnight.

Tayka del DesiertoBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 9
D9

The Route of Jewels and other pink flamingos

Head north via the La Route des joyaux, a series of several magnificent lagoons (Honda, Ch'arkota, Hedionda and Cañapa) some of which are home to colonies of pink flamingos. This is the perfect time for a selfie with a flamingo! A short break to admire the Ollaguë and Tomasamil volcanoes is in order. We reach the Salar de Chiguana which closes out this beautiful day.

Arrival at the Tayka de Piedra hotel in late afternoon. Dinner and overnight stay.

Tayka de PiedraBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 10
D10

The Salar de Uyuni

We are leaving today towards the mythical Salar de Uyuni. On the way, visit to the small Galaxies Cave, a rather unique place… The Salar de Uyuni is for many the most beautiful salt desert in the world. Crossing this immense immaculate surface, one of the most striking experiences of this trip that we will remember for a long time. This paradise on earth with its infinitely white landscape is simply magical. An island in a sea of salt, the Incahuasi Island or Casa del Inca, is amazing with its many cacti so tall they seem to touch the sky.

Dinner and night in a lodge. Sunset over the Salar.

Kachi LodgeBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 11
D11

Meeting with the Jirira community

Salar d'UyuniUyuni

1h30 km

First, we head to the nearby village of Coquesa, famous for the site of pre-Columbian mummies dating from around 700 years AD. Gradual and peaceful ascent to the viewpoint to enjoy a splendid view of the volcano's crater as well as the Salar d'Uyuni. Return by the same path in 1 hour.

Walking time: 3h

After this magnificent hike, we head to the village of Jirira for a wonderful encounter with this community. We discover the culture of quinoa and the cultural history of the area.

UyuniLa Paz

1h500 km

It is unfortunately already time to leave the region. We take the road to Uyuni airport.

Flight Uyuni - La Paz (variable schedules). Welcome by our driver at El Alto airport, transfer and check-in at the hotel.

Casa Grande HotelBreakfastLunch
Jour 12
D12

Have a good trip!

Free morning until the time of transfer to the airport for our return international flight.

Breakfast

Price per person

2 pers.€6,910/pers.
3-4 pers.€5,990/pers.
5-7 pers.€5,390/pers.
8-12 pers.€4,990/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • Comprehensive travel insurance with assistance and repatriation coverage
  • The individual equipment necessary for the smooth running of your stay
  • The accommodation supplement on the basis of Single room
  • The international flight round trip
  • Tips for local teams
  • Beverages as well as all personal extras
  • The airport tax for domestic flights

Included

  • An English-speaking guide accompanying you throughout your entire stay
  • The support for your 4x4 expedition with an English-speaking driver from day 7 to day 11
  • Private transportation mentioned in the program
  • La Paz-Sucre and Uyuni-La Paz flights
  • Hotel accommodation on a double/twin or triple room basis
  • Meals described in the program
  • National park entrances, historical sites, museums, churches

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Bolivia for a tourist stay. Since entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter Bolivia, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date into the country and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).

Tourist stay without a visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Bolivia.

This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days per year in Bolivian territory. This duration is calculated on a calendar year basis and generally cannot be exceeded without specific administrative procedures.

Authorities may also request:

  • an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.

Tourist card

Upon arrival in Bolivia, travelers may be asked to complete a tourist card or entry form issued by Bolivian immigration services, particularly when entering by land.

This document allows authorities to collect certain information necessary for entry into the territory:

  • passport information

  • purpose and duration of stay

  • address of first accommodation in Bolivia

It is advisable to keep this document throughout your stay, as it may be requested when leaving the territory.

Health and vaccinations

No vaccine is officially required to enter Bolivia from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada. However, vaccination against yellow fever is strongly recommended for travelers going to tropical lowland regions (Amazon, Beni and Santa Cruz departments).

It is also recommended to inquire about the risks associated with malaria in certain rural areas and to take appropriate precautions. The high altitude of certain Bolivian destinations (La Paz, Potosí, Uyuni) can cause altitude sickness (soroche): a medical consultation before departure is recommended.

Travel with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.

In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence. Bolivian authorities may also request documents proving the family relationship or parental authorization.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Bolivia in their country of residence.

To take part in our trips, it is strongly recommended that you have assistance-repatriation and foreign medical expenses insurance.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that best suits you:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

Visitors can stay in Bolivia visa-free with a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry. The exact authorized length of stay varies depending on your nationality. Before booking, check the entry requirements applicable to your nationality with the Bolivian consular authorities.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 130 and 220 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (1000-1400 euros return) are additional. Bolivia remains one of the most affordable Andean destinations.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to match our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Anne, Explorer of the Bolivian Andes
15years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Central Altiplano

Explorer of the Bolivian Andes, based in La Paz

In Bolivia, the mountain is more than just beautiful: it forces you to slow down, to breathe differently, and to find your true place.

Anne

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance4.61/5