2 Week Bolivia Travel Itinerary: Andes, Amazon and Salt Flats

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One of the most amazing places I’ve found for experiencing adventure, beauty, warmth of people and spectacular nature is the “heart” of South America, landlocked Bolivia. In Bolivia’s history, various indigenous cultures have for centuries intertwined with Spanish colonial influences. You can see this in the architecture, languages, and customs of Bolivian cities as well as countryside. Overall, Bolivia is perhaps best known for the Andes, access to the Amazon, and Lake Titicaca, on the border with Peru.

To me, Bolivia seems like a land of extremes. In places you’ll find less-than-amazing infrastructure; and lots and lots of people still rely on farming, hunting, and fishing for subsistence. At the same time, Bolivia’s economy is growing fast. There are some amazing universities here, and places such as La Paz and Cochabamba are booming with business development, not to speak of vibrant nightlife and shopping areas. The country is covered with a fairly extensive public transportation system. On the other hand, Bolivia is also very down-to-earth. It is a rare country in that it has declared nature to have rights of its own. Indeed, Bolivia’s nature is one-of-a-kind; from dense tropical forests to salt deserts and towering mountains, Bolivia has it all.

I also find Bolivians to be some of the friendliest, warmest, most caring people on Earth, and their country is full of wonders. In this article we share a suggestion for the ultimate 2-week Bolivia travel itinerary. It includes places which I find to be some of the most visually breathtaking, culturally and historically fascinating, and ecologically interesting places to visit in this land-locked country. Two weeks is not long in this vast and beautiful country, but it’s a nice introduction – and I have a feeling it might just entice you to return again.

Getting to Bolivia

If you fly to Bolivia, it is likely you’ll need to change in places such as Brazil or Peru. Sometimes you’ll find direct flights to Bolivia, depending where you’re coming from. For example, there are regular direct flights to both Spain and the United States.

If you travel by land, there are lots of connections by bus between Bolivian cities and places in Peru, Argentina, and Brazil, for example.

Getting around Bolivia

Whilst in Bolivia, the distances between places are large. I recommend taking some flights in-country, if you only have two weeks for visiting Bolivia. Meanwhile, long-distance bus network is extensive, as well. The buses are mostly pretty comfortable, and depending on the company and the bus you’ll have more or less of comforts (such as air conditioning or large, comfy seats). Bus travel is fairly inexpensive as well, and it’s fun to buy local, traditional foods and snacks from the bus stops and street corners. Just note that some distances involve stretches of bumpy dirt roads through the countryside, so have some patience along for the trip, as well.

In most cities and towns you’ll find local taxis that can take you from place to place. It is good to be on the lookout for the official taxi sign and phone number. Uber is so far only available in parts of La Paz and Santa Cruz de la Sierra. And of course, many adventurers also walk or cycle around the country. Granted, this form of travel involves some more risks; traffic rules aren’t always followed meticulously and roads aren’t usually built for bicyclists. But it sure is a great way to meet more locals and immerse yourself in the environment.

Local tip: I highly recommend having some Bolivianos with you, in cash. Although paying by card is possible in more and more places, there are also places where cash is very much preferred, if not the only option.

Ultimate 2 Week Bolivia Travel Itinerary

Days 1-2: Cochabamba

A base for your Bolivia travel itinerary

I can highly recommend Cochabamba as a place to land in Bolivia, and as a “base” to explore the country from. Of course, you could fly to any other major city as well. But, Cochabamba is centrally located in the Andes, close to both the jungle and the Altiplano (well, close is a relative term of course – Bolivia is a very large country). It is also a nice size city, with many lovely sights to see and a friendly, approachable atmosphere. I find it is a rather walkable city as well, though of course, you can also take taxis or buses to get to places.

Things to see and do in Cochabamba

There are are some architecturally stunning buildings in the city centre, especially around the central Plaza 14 de Septiembre. This colonial square is surrounded by arcades and the beautiful San Sebastián cathedral. Nearby, you’ll find the vibrant market, Mercado 25 de Mayo. Be on the lookout for the roof of this market place; it was designed by Eiffel, the creator of Paris’s most famed landmark.

I would also recommend visiting La Cancha, Cochabamba’s vast main market region. It is great fun exploring its many, many streets lined with household items, clothing, souvenirs, food, cars, and whatever else one can trade in. Obviously, it is recommended to keep a good hold of your belongings here. If you’d feel more comfortable with a guide, I just love this historical walking tour of the city.

You could also take the cable car to visit Cristo de la Concordia statue, a massive Christ statue situated on a hill, with views over the surrounding city and mountains. For lunch or dinner, there are countless amazing places to choose from. I’ve tasted some of the best steak I’ve ever had at Restaurante La Estancia. After dinner, why not head over to Muela del Diablo, an atmospheric bar and restaurant where you can enjoy lovely drinks and pizzas, and often amazing live music.

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Days 2-3: La Paz

I suggest flying from Cochabamba to La Paz on the evening of the second day of your Bolivia travel itinerary. This administrative capital of Bolivia is located in the Bolivian Altiplano, an area in and surrounding the Andes, at an altitude of about 3,500 meters. This means you’ll probably need to take it easy as your body acclimatizes. La Paz is a hilly city, and it looks rather dramatic with the majestic Mount Illimani looming in the background.

I find the city highly characterful. You’ll find lots of interesting murals everywhere, and in the city centre there are interesting historical places, such as the political square Plaza Murillo. Meanwhile, just on the outskirts of La Paz you’ll find one of the most peculiar and stunning places to visit in the city – Valle de la Luna. Wind and water have, over time, created the army of stone pillars that occupy the valley floor. In La Paz as well, a good way to get around is by using the local taxis. But, what is truly a distinctive feature of La Paz is also the cable car system above the city. I’d recommend trying this form of transportation while you visit here.

And, don’t forget trying some traditional Bolivian foods; salteñas and empanadas are just some of my own personal favorites. Wistupiku is one place where you can find amazing Bolivian pastries. Better yet, why not join an evening foodie tour of La Paz?

Local tip: If the altitude gives you headache (it sometimes does), take it easy, drink enough water, or take coca tea. Bolivia is one of the biggest producers of coca leaf, and locals swear to it being a great cure for altitude sickness.

Evenings in La Paz can be particularly lively. To get under the skin of the city, I usually recommend spending one evening watching the (highly entertaining) cholita wrestling matches.

Day 4-5: Lake Titicaca and Isla del Sol

From La Paz, I recommend taking a morning bus to Copacabana by Lake Titicaca. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. Any Bolivia travel itinerary must include a visit to Lake Titicaca – the highest navigable lake in the world, and one of South America’s largest lakes. I love the peace and serenity surrounding this area, even with the many visitors who come to enjoy this place.

You could stay over at Copacabana, and take a boat tour to visit Isla del Sol at Lake Titicaca. There, you can visit ancient Inca ruins, and take in the views over and surrounding the clear, blue lake. The water in Lake Titicaca is chilly but I highly recommend having a dip. It feels amazing to swim in a lake at an altitude of about 3,800 metres. At Copacabana, you can also stop by at the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana. The beauty of this shrine, inside and out, is truly touching.

If you are planning on continuing onto to Peru, you can find easy bus connections from Copacabana to Puno (the Peruvian side of the Lake) or Cuzco.

Days 5-7: Back to La Paz and towards Rurrenabaque, in the jungle

On day 5 of your 2 week Bolivia travel itinerary, head back to La Paz, and afterwards, take a night bus to Rurrenabaque, north-east of La Paz. Or, depending on the day, you may find flights to Rurrenabaque, as well. Rurrenabaque is a perfect gateway to exploring some of the Amazon rainforest on Bolivian side.

I recommend using one of the local tour operators at Rurrenabaque and taking a boat tour up Beni and Tuichi rivers, towards Madidi National Park. This is a place of extraordinary biodiversity, as well as several indigenous communities. Connected with other nearby national parks, Madidi is part of one of the largest protected areas in the world. It takes about three hours on the rivers to reach Madidi Jungle Eco Lodge, one great option for staying overnight in the jungle. They have knowledgeable local guides, and basic but nice accommodation.

On day 7, you could return by boat back to Rurrenabaque. From there, I suggest taking the overnight bus back to La Paz, to fly to Sucre the following day – or if there’s availability, to fly straight from Rurrenabaque to Sucre. If this all sounds like too much of a hassle, you can easily find a 3 day/2 night roundtrip tour from La Paz at extremely affordable prices!

Day 8: Explore Sucre

No Bolivia travel itinerary would be complete without Sucre, the constitutional capital of the country. Sucre was founded already in the 16th century, and it has since then been an important city in terms of the political climate of Bolivia. For example, Bolivia’s constitution was written at Sucre. However, Sucre is also incredibly beautiful. Many of the city’s streets are lined with fascinating buildings that blend the traditional architecture of these regions with the Spanish colonial styles. This has gained the city a UNESCO World Heritage status.

Day 9: From Sucre to Potosí

I can recommend stopping at Potosí on the way from Sucre to Uyuni. It is about 3 hours by bus from Sucre to Potosí. Potosí is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes, and it is best known for its long silver mining history. This “silver town” is located at over 4,000 m of altitude.

It is lovely to walk around the historic city centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find stunning Spanish colonial architecture here. It is also possible to visit the active silver mines to get acquainted with this practice – Cerro Rico mountain and mine is the most famous one, overlooking the city. This is another extreme Bolivia experience, and not for the faint-hearted!

Days 10-13: Salar de Uyuni and the surrounding Altiplano

Take an early bus from Potosí to Uyuni, in Bolivia’s southern highlands. Uyuni is the closest town to Salar de Uyuni salt flats, the largest salt flat desert in the world and a magical place to visit. Uyuni is, thus, also a great place to stock up at before heading to explore the salt flats.

Explore the white expanses of salt at Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni consists of endless fields of white, made of salt, with expansive horizons, clear night skies, and peculiar “islands” filled with the most imagination-stirring plants. The area is also dotted with unique rock formations. Technically speaking, you could explore Salar de Uyuni on your own. However, it’s not recommended, as there aren’t roads everywhere and navigating can get challenging. Unquestionably, the best way to navigate this area is on a guided tour, as you pretty much can’t access the best sites without your own 4×4.

Adventure in the highlands surrounding Salar de Uyuni, and Siloli Desert

I recommend continuing with your local guide to do a longer 4×4 tour in the surrounding Altiplano and Siloli Desert. The Bolivian Altiplano is actually the most vast high plateau in the world outside of Tibet. In this region southwest of Salar de Uyuni, you’ll find geysers, stunning rock formations, and for example, hot springs. Termas de Polques is a lovely warm spring with mineral-rich water, where you can soak in the warmth amidst the (often snowy) highlands. Laguna Colorada is a red-ish lagoon where you can admire the landscape and flamingoes that live here. You can also sleep in a salt hotel for a night – I love the Hotel Luna Salada, its truly a magical place.

Days 13-14: Returning home

An optional extra: Santa Cruz

On Day 12 or 13, you might want to consider flying to Santa Cruz for a day, to explore this colorful Bolivian city. It’s yet another gem where you can visit historical places and beautiful gardens, and of course enjoy delicious, traditional Bolivian foods. You might be able to fly back to your home country from Santa Cruz.

Or, explore more of Cochabamba before heading home

However, if you need to return to Cochabamba for your return flight, I can also suggest taking a night bus from Uyuni to Cochabamba. It’s a good 10 hours, depending on the bus, and a bit bumpy at times. But the trip is quite memorable, and a good way to get back to Cochabamba. This way you could still have a day or two to visit more lovely places in Cochabamba.

For example, you could take the two-hour drive to Villa Tunari over the mountains. You could enjoy a little bit more of tropical jungle life here, and visit for example Inti Wara Yassi wildlife rescue and education centre to learn more about Bolivian wildlife.

Sadly, this marks the end of your two week Bolivia travel itinerary. But if you’re itching for more of South America, why not continue to the magical Salta, in northern Argentina, or Peru?

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