13-Day Bolivia Adventure: Uyuni, Andes & Madidi Park
Explore Bolivia in 13 days! Visit La Paz, trek the Andes, see Uyuni’s salt flats & experience Madidi National Park’s biodiversity. Plan now!
ADVENTURESOUTH AMERICAEXPENSIVE
About
An adventurous 12-day trip through Bolivia, offering an unforgettable journey across breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Begin your journey in La Paz, exploring the vibrant markets and unique cityscape. Continue to the Uyuni Salt Flats, experiencing its surreal beauty. Discover Lake Poopó's pristine surroundings and its importance to local communities. Trek through the rugged Andes and venture into the Madidi National Park for a deeper connection with Bolivia's stunning biodiversity. This trip is designed to immerse you in Bolivia’s natural wonders while embracing its vibrant culture.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in La Paz, explore Witches' Market, and acclimate to the altitude.
DAY 2 - City Of Contrasts
Ride the Mi Teleférico, visit Valle de la Luna, and savor local cuisine.
DAY 3 - To Laka Titicaca
Day trip to Copacabana, visit Isla del Sol, and hike ancient Inca trails.
DAY 4 - Laka Titicaca
Hike to Cerro Calvario for a view of the lake, explore the surroundings, and get ready to travel
DAY 5 - Journey To Lake Poopò
Welcome to Lake Poopó, explore the wetlands, and interact with local communities.
DAY 6 - Uyuni Bound
Take a bus to Uyuni, relax, and prepare for the Salt Flats adventure.
DAY 7 - Uyuni Salt Flats
Explore the dazzling Salar de Uyuni, Incahuasi Island, and stunning sunset views.
DAY 8 - From Uyuni To La Paz
Take a flight to La Paz, enjoy the city life or the surroundings, and prepare for the jungle
DAY 9 - Madidi National Park
Begin your 3 days journey to the Amazon Forest with a local guide
DAY 10 - Into The Jungle
Hike in the jungle, and do many activities as per your guided tour
DAY 11 - Back to La Paz
Hike through the rainforest, spot wildlife, and prepare to go back to La Paz
DAY 12 - Last Day - La Paz
Get ready to fly, use your last moments for shopping or extra exploring
DAY 13 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$880
$1490
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $10-30 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Shared Vans, Buses, Flights...
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$110-330
$180-300
$330-500
$240-360
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
May to October
During the dry season, Bolivia experiences sunny days with little to no rain. In high-altitude areas such as La Paz, Uyuni, and Potosí, daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, particularly in the mountains. In contrast, the lowlands and tropical regions, such as Santa Cruz and the Madidi National Park, enjoy warmer conditions with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C and moderate humidity.
This period is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Bolivia’s diverse landscapes. Andean trails like the Choro Trek and the shores of Lake Titicaca are more accessible due to clear skies and dry paths. The Uyuni Salt Flats offer an otherworldly experience with their hexagonal salt formations, visible only during this dry spell, creating breathtaking views for photographers. In the Amazonian regions, lower river levels concentrate wildlife along the shores, making it easier to spot animals such as jaguars, pink dolphins, and capybaras. The dry season also aligns with key cultural events like the Gran Poder Festival in La Paz (May or June) and the Virgen de Urkupiña celebration in Cochabamba in August, providing opportunities to immerse yourself in Bolivian traditions.
November to April
The rainy season ushers in higher temperatures and frequent rainfall, especially in the lowlands and jungle regions. High-altitude areas like La Paz and Uyuni remain cooler, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, while the plains and tropical zones can reach 25°C to 35°C. The rains bring a lush vibrancy to Bolivia’s landscapes, though they can complicate travel in remote areas due to muddy roads and occasional flooding.
One of the most magical phenomena during this season is the "mirror effect" at the Uyuni Salt Flats. Rainwater creates a reflective surface, transforming the flats into a surreal, dreamlike expanse, perfect for photography and unforgettable experiences. The verdant greenery of Bolivia's tropical regions is especially stunning during this time, making areas like the Yungas and Chapare ideal destinations for nature lovers. Although road access to remote areas may be more challenging, the jungle teems with life, and the swollen rivers allow for immersive exploration of places like Madidi National Park or the Pampas in Rurrenabaque, where you can spot aquatic wildlife and vibrant bird species.
This season is also an excellent time to explore Bolivia's cultural and historical cities with fewer crowds. Colonial gems such as Sucre and Potosí offer a quieter and more intimate experience, allowing travelers to delve into the country’s rich history and charm.
Summary Recommendations
Best Overall Period: May to October
Dry weather and easier access to remote areas make this the ideal time for an adventurous trip.
Alternative: November to December
Experience the Salt Flats’ reflective water effect and vibrant landscapes, with some wet season challenges.
Avoid if Possible: January to March
Heavy rains can disrupt travel, especially in remote areas.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Arrive at El Alto International Airport, one of the world’s highest airports. Upon landing, take an official taxi or airport shuttle (approx. €10-15) to your accommodation in the city center. Choose a budget-friendly guesthouse in the Sopocachi or San Pedro area for easy access to markets and attractions. Spend the day exploring gently: visit the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas) for unique souvenirs and Calle Jaén for its colonial architecture. Combat altitude sickness by staying hydrated and enjoying a warm coca tea.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
DAY 2
Start your day by riding Mi Teleférico, La Paz's cable car system, for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Andes (ticket: €1 per line). Take the yellow line to reach Valle de la Luna, located about 10 km from the city center. Use a local taxi or a shared van (trufi) for the 30-minute ride. Explore the otherworldly clay formations and enjoy a light hike. For lunch, try a local restaurant serving salteñas, a savory Bolivian pastry. Spend your afternoon strolling through Plaza Murillo, and finish with dinner in a local eatery like Namas Té or Ali Pacha.
CITY OF CONTRASTS
DAY 3
Take a tourist bus from La Paz to Copacabana (approx. 4 hours, €10-15). These buses depart from the city center, often near the main bus terminal. Upon arrival, visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, a prominent pilgrimage site. Board a boat (30 minutes, €2-3) to Isla del Sol, the mythical birthplace of the Inca sun god. Spend the afternoon hiking the Inca Steps and exploring the Chincana ruins. Return to Copacabana by boat and stay overnight in a lakeside guesthouse.
TO LAKE TITICACA
DAY 4
Begin your morning with a hike up Cerro Calvario, a hill overlooking Copacabana. The trail is dotted with stations of the cross and is a popular pilgrimage site. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot for quiet reflection and stunning photos.
Take a bus from Copacabana to Oruro (approx. 6-7 hours, €10-15). Enjoy the evening in a local restaurant
LAKE TITICACA
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options in Oruro, close to the bus station, after the long trip
DAY 5
From Oruro, hire a private taxi (approx. €30) or join a shared van to reach the shores of Lake Poopó, about 1 hour away. Explore the wetlands, a sanctuary for migratory birds, and learn about the lake’s cultural significance from local guides. Stay in a simple guesthouse in a nearby village like Machacamarca, where you can interact with indigenous communities.
JOURNEY TO LAKE POOPO
DAY 6
Travel to Uyuni via bus from Oruro (approx. 5 hours, €25). This scenic journey offers glimpses of Bolivia’s high-altitude landscapes. Upon arrival in Uyuni, check into a budget-friendly hostel. Rest and prepare for the following day’s adventure to the Salar de Uyuni. Spend your evening strolling through Uyuni’s quiet streets and enjoy a casual dinner at Minuteman Pizza or another local eatery.
UYUNI BOUND
DAY 7
Join a guided tour of the Salar de Uyuni (approx. €50 for a full-day tour). Visit the Train Cemetery, Colchani village, and learn about salt harvesting. Continue to the surreal Incahuasi Island, home to giant cacti and panoramic views of the endless salt flats. Capture stunning photos during the sunset before returning to Uyuni for the night. Opt for a hot drink at a local café before turning in.
UYUNI SALT FLATS ADVENTURE
DAY 8
Take a morning flight from Uyuni to La Paz. Upon arrival, enjoy the day at leisure, revisiting attractions or exploring new ones. Visit the Coca Museum to learn about this culturally significant plant, or shop for textiles and handicrafts in San Francisco Market. Enjoy a quiet evening in the Sopocachi district with dinner at a modern Bolivian restaurant like Gustu.
FROM UYUNI TO LA PAZ
DAY 9
Begin your 3-day guided tour to Madidi National Park from La Paz, with transportation included. Travel deep into the Amazon rainforest and arrive at your eco-lodge, where you’ll be welcomed with a warm meal. Spend the afternoon exploring the jungle on a guided hike, spotting wildlife like monkeys, toucans, and vibrant butterflies. Relax in the evening with dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the rainforest.
MADIDI NATIONAL PARK
DAY 10
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Madidi National Park. Start the day with a guided trek through lush jungle trails, learning about medicinal plants and the traditions of local indigenous communities. In the afternoon, enjoy a canoe ride along the rivers, watching for caimans, capybaras, and exotic birds. Participate in cultural activities offered at the eco-lodge, such as crafting or cooking demonstrations. End the day with a night walk to observe the nocturnal animals of the rainforest.
INTO THE JUNGLE
DAY 11
Conclude your Amazon adventure with a peaceful morning in Madidi National Park. After breakfast, enjoy a final jungle walk or boat ride before beginning your return trip to La Paz. Upon arrival in the city, spend your last evening revisiting your favorite spots or relaxing in your accommodation. Celebrate the end of your trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant like Popular Cocina Boliviana or Gustu.
RETURN TO LA PAZ
DAY 12
Spend your last partial day around La Paz and use it as a jolly based on the timeline of your flight back
RETURN TO LA PAZ
DAY 13
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back