San Pedro de Buena Vista
Potosí Department, Yungas region
Remote colonial mining town offering authentic Andean culture and panoramic cloud forest views.
Logistics: Accessible by 4x4 from Potosí, approximately 3 hours.
Updated: 2025-10
Highlights
Bolivia — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Bolivia with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Did you know?
<p>Bolivia invites you to step into a land where the sky meets the earth in a dramatic dance of color and culture. Explore the mirror‑like Salar de Uyuni, wander the turquoise shores of Lake Titicaca, and hike the mist‑shrouded peaks of the Cordillera Real. In Madidi National Park, taste the wild flavors of the jungle and hear the calls of countless birds. Visit the ancient stone city of Tiwanaku and the silver‑glinting streets of Potosí, each echoing a rich history. These are the things to do in Bolivia that blend adventure with wonder. As you wander, you’ll feel the country’s adventurous vibe and leave with stories that inspire others. Discover the highlights of Bolivia and let curiosity guide your next step.</p>
Why go — quick legend
- Salar de Uyuni — Stunning mirror effect after rains, endless salt flats, u…
- Lake Titicaca — Highest navigable lake, floating islands, rich indigenous…
- Madidi National Park — World class biodiversity, rare mammals, pristine rivers, …
- Cordillera Real — Spectacular peaks, glaciers, challenging climbs, breathta…
- Tiwanaku — Ancient ruins, monumental stonework, archaeological insig…
- Potosí — Explore the historic silver mint and climb Cerro Rico for…
- Isla del Sol — Hike rugged trails, visit ancient Inca ruins, and taste l…
- Sucre — Stroll colonial plazas, admire preserved architecture, an…
- Uyuni — Witness the world’s largest salt flat and its surreal, mi…
- Oruro — Experience the vibrant Carnival, explore colonial churche…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Salar de Uyuni — Stunning mirror effect after rains, endless salt flats, u…
- Lake Titicaca — Highest navigable lake, floating islands, rich indigenous…
- Madidi National Park — World class biodiversity, rare mammals, pristine rivers, …
- Cordillera Real — Spectacular peaks, glaciers, challenging climbs, breathta…
- Tiwanaku — Ancient ruins, monumental stonework, archaeological insig…
- Potosí — Explore the historic silver mint and climb Cerro Rico for…
- Isla del Sol — Hike rugged trails, visit ancient Inca ruins, and taste l…
- Sucre — Stroll colonial plazas, admire preserved architecture, an…
- Uyuni — Witness the world’s largest salt flat and its surreal, mi…
- Oruro — Experience the vibrant Carnival, explore colonial churche…
Bolivia — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
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| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Municipio Colcha K · Potosí | Stunning mirror effect after rains, endless salt flats, unique wildlife, and surreal landscapes. | World's biggest salt flat, geological archive of ancient lake, vital salt source, cultural icon. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
| Highest navigable lake, floating islands, rich indigenous culture, panoramic Andean vistas. | Biggest South American lake, sacred to pre Columbian peoples, key trade route across Andes. | — (natural) | Outdoor | |
Municipio Ixiamas · La Paz | World class biodiversity, rare mammals, pristine rivers, immersive jungle trekking. | Greatest Amazonian conservation zone, critical habitat for endangered species, research hub. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Municipio Quime · La Paz | Spectacular peaks, glaciers, challenging climbs, breathtaking sunrise views over La Paz. | Glaciated range near equator, vital water source, geological marker of Andean uplift. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Tiahuanacu · La Paz | Ancient ruins, monumental stonework, archaeological insights, cultural heritage of pre Inca civilization. | Most significant pre Columbian complex, advanced engineering, cosmological center, influence on Inca. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Potosí · Potosí | Explore the historic silver mint and climb Cerro Rico for panoramic Andean views. | Potos 's colonial mint fueled Spanish empire; its high altitude mining shaped global economics. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Provincia Manco Kapac · La Paz | Hike rugged trails, visit ancient Inca ruins, and taste local farm to table cuisine. | Island preserves Inca heritage and unique high altitude ecosystems, sustaining 800 families. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Municipio Sucre · Chuquisaca | Stroll colonial plazas, admire preserved architecture, and sample Quechua Aymara street food. | Sucre hosts Bolivia's constitutional history and vibrant indigenous culture, reflecting Andean identity. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Uyuni · Potosí | Witness the world’s largest salt flat and its surreal, mirror like landscapes. | Uyuni’s salt flats illustrate geological processes and support diverse desert wildlife. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Municipio Oruro · Oruro | Experience the vibrant Carnival, explore colonial churches, and taste traditional Andean dishes. | Oruro blends mining heritage with cultural festivals, showcasing Altiplano’s social resilience. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Madidi National Park
Pando Department, Amazonian basin
World‑class biodiversity, remote river trekking, and indigenous cultural immersion.
Logistics: Reachable via La Paz to Rurrenabaque flight, then 4x4 to park entrance.
Updated: 2025-10
Valle de la Luna
Cochabamba Department, near Cochabamba city
Unique lunar‑like landscape, scenic hiking, and local folklore.
Logistics: Drive 30 minutes from Cochabamba, guided tours available.
Updated: 2025-10
When to go
High Altitude HikingApr–Jun, Sep–Oct: Ideal for trekking with mild temperatures, low cloud cover, and fewer tourists, giving clear views of the Andes and Salar de Uyuni.
City ExplorationOct–Nov, Mar–Apr: Pleasant weather, moderate humidity, and off‑peak prices make urban sightseeing and cultural festivals enjoyable.
Amazon RainforestDec–Feb, Jun–Jul: Warm, humid conditions support abundant wildlife, while the dry season reduces mosquitoes and the rainy season offers lush scenery.
Winter SportsJun–Jul, Aug: Snowy peaks, crisp air, and limited crowds create perfect conditions for skiing and mountaineering.
Festivals & CultureFeb–Mar, Aug–Sep: Celebrations like Carnaval and Inti Raymi coincide with mild temperatures and lower accommodation rates.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Family picks
Three kid-friendly wins—mix of attractions, activities, or stays
Salar de Uyuni
$$Uyuni
Attraction5–12Updated: 2025-10-08
Stunning salt flats with mirror effect; kids love the vast landscape and simple walking.
Logistics: Take a 2‑day guided tour from Uyuni; bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Strollers not recommended.
Lake Titicaca Boat Tour
$Copacabana
Activity5–12Updated: 2025-10-08
Family‑friendly boat ride to Uros floating islands; kids enjoy the unique culture and simple boat ride.
Logistics: Book a 3‑hour tour from Copacabana; bring snacks, sun protection, and a light jacket.
La Paz City Walking Tour
$La Paz
Activity5–12Updated: 2025-10-08
Short guided walk through markets and plazas; kids see colorful street art and local life.
Logistics: Start at Plaza Murillo; 1‑hour walk, stroller‑friendly. Bring water and a hat.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Bolivia offers vibrant culture but travelers should stay alert to petty theft, road safety, altitude effects, and seasonal weather.
- Petty theft in crowded tourist spots
- Unpredictable road conditions
- Altitude sickness at high elevations
- Seasonal flooding in lowlands
- Tourist scams in markets
- Extreme UV exposure at altitude
How to travel it safely
- Keep valuables in a hotel safe or hidden pouch.
- Use reputable transport companies and avoid unmarked taxis.
- Acclimate gradually; stay hydrated and rest at lower altitudes first.
- Carry a small first aid kit and altitude medication if advised.
- Check weather forecasts; avoid hiking during heavy rain.
- Be cautious of friendly strangers offering unsolicited help.
- Verify prices before buying souvenirs to avoid overcharging.
- Use local emergency number 911 or 112 for urgent help.
Emergency: If you need help, dial 911 or 112.
Information is current as of 2025; verify locally.
Top links
Accurate, high-signal sources for Bolivia.
Published: Oct 9, 2025•Updated: Oct 9, 2025