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Discover Bolivia's immense landscapes, ancient history and colonial cities
The group flights are scheduled to arrive into Santa Cruz early this morning. Upon arrival we will transfer (approx. 3 hours) to our first hotel located on the border of Amboro N.P. Please note that the road to the entrance to the hotel is unpaved and we´ll be taking a 4x4 vehicles for the last stretch of this journey (approx. 30 mins). After checking into our hotel we will have lunch and afterwards we will have the afternoon at leisure. For those wanting to stretch their legs, we will have some optional walks on offer. *Accommodation: Refugio de los Volcanes (or similar)*
This morning we have an early start and we set out on foot for a day walk (approx. 4 - 6 hours). We will see Giant tree ferns which reach up to an impressive thirteen metres tall and visit a viewpoint which unveils a panorama of sheer sandstone cliffs rising high above an endless expanse of tropical jungle. Amboró National Park is vast, containing some 830 bird species (including Cock of the rocks, Blue horned curassows, hummingbirds, toucans and macaws) - we may see a few of these with the help of our local guides who will also identify some of the endemic plants. Elusive mammals (ocelots, Spectacled bears, tapirs, jaguars and pumas to name a few) also reside within Amboró but we are not likely to see them, especially in the daytime. Afterwards we have an opportunity to shower and have lunch before we transfer to the little-visited laidback town of Samaipata (approx. 1.5 hours) and check into our hotel for the next 2 nights. On route we will visit Las Cuevas Waterfalls, where it is possible to take a quick swim in the clear water if you wish. The evening is free for you to explore the town or rest after this morning’s walk. *Accommodation: Hotel Quinta Pirai, Samaipata (or similar) *
This morning we visit ‘El Fuerte de Samaipata’ (or Samaipata Fort), a Pre-Columbian archaeological site of UNESCO World Heritage status, located about 10km outside the town. The hilltop ruins form an excellent vantage point over the picturesque valley and although no standing structures remain, excavations (which continue today) have revealed over five-hundred dwellings. It incorporates buildings from three different cultures: Chanè, Inca, and Spanish. The main site is a gigantic stone slab (over 100m in length), covered in Inca and Pre-Inca carvings of geometric shapes and animal figures, thought to have been of religious/ceremonial significance. We will also visit the museum which contains artefacts from El Fuerte. **Accommodation: Hotel Quinta Pirai, Samaipata (or similar) **
After breakfast we make our way back to Santa Cruz airport (approx. 4.5hrs drive). In the afternoon we fly to Bolivia’s capital, Sucre (approx. 45min flight), which with its narrow streets and fine colonial white-washed buildings, is often said to be Bolivia’s most beautiful city; protected by its UNESCO status. *Accommodation: Capital Plaza Hotel (or similar) *
After breakfast we’ll embark on a guided tour of the sights, including La Recoleta viewpoint, monastery and museum of indigenous art, situated at the base of Churuquella Mountain overlooking the city. We’ll visit the main square, ‘Plaza 25 de Mayo’ and adjacent historic Casa de la Libertad (House of Liberty) where Simon Bolivar signed the Act of Independence in 1825. Following on from this we’ll come to the San Francisco Basilica, complete with its ‘freedom bell’, so named as it was allegedly rung so hard to mark Bolivian independence that it broke! A stroll through the manicured Bolivar Park and cemetery are also part of the tour. *Accommodation: Capital Plaza Hotel (or similar) *
After breakfast we drive (approx. 3.5 hours) to Potosí. You will notice the increase in elevation as Potosí lies at 4,060m. This afternoon we have a tour of the city, which was the centre of the silver rush in the 16th century. The silver was mined from nearby Cerro Rico (‘rich mountain’) and was predominantly used to make coins but also other objects as it was so plentiful. Potosí developed into a large and prosperous city with thousands of colonial buildings. The consequences for the indigenous miners and African slaves, however, were tragic – some estimates speculate that there were as many as nine million casualties. *Accommodation: Hostal Patrimonio (or similar)*
This morning we have a tour to the entrance of the Cerro Rico mine. We will have an explanation about the mine and its importance from a former miner. In the afternoon we drive to Uyuni town (approx. 4 hours driving) with some wonderful landscapes on the way. *Accommodation: Hotel Palacio de Sal (or similar) *
We spend today on the salt flats. Pyramids of salt are mounded up and in the dry season the ground is desiccated and hexagonal tiles of salt form as far as the eye can see. There are wonderful photo opportunities and we'll have time today to create some fun pictures. In the middle of the salt flats we come to Incahuasi Island, known for its giant cacti and unusual fossils. This small island on the middle of the salt flats is an amazing sight and we have the chance to walk across it for 360 views from the top. After more photo opportunities, we'll make our way to a spot to watch the sun come down and watch the light cast shadows and reflections on the water. Today's driving time is approx. 5-6 hours. *Accommodation: Hotel Palacio de Sal (or similar) *
This morning after an early breakfast we will head south towards the Bolivian border with Chile. Firstly, we will make a quick stop in San Cristobal town, which is one of Bolivia's largest silver mining facilities. We will not enter the mine but will have a quick explanation of the history of the mine. Afterwards we will drive to the Turkiri Lagoon where we will get to see a variety of local flora and fauna (mainly birds). We will continue heading south with beautiful sights of the Ollagüe Volcano until we arrive at the lakes of Cañapa, Hedionda and Honda. Flamingo breeding grounds are found here and we’re certain to see flocks of them at the lagoons, as well as possibly vicunas and Andean geese. Before we arrive at our hotel for the night, we will drive to the Siloli desert and view the Mountain of seven colours at the national park `Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve'. Today's driving time is approx. 6-7 hours. *Accommodation: Hotel Tayka del Desierto/Mallku Cueva Hotel (or similar)*
A different highlight awaits today as our 4WD adventure brings us into Eduardo Avaroa National Park. Our first stop is at Laguna Colorada, the colours of the lake are a result of algae or the chemical composition. Afterwards we will visit Sol de Mañana geysers (4,926m), meaning 'morning sun'. This sulphur spring field is one of the few places where you can get up close to volcanic (hydrothermal) activity. Across this expanse, lie boiling mud lakes and steam pools, and there are several geyser-like features where pressurised steam spouts up to fifty metres into the air! Set against a backdrop of volcanoes and mountains. is Polques Thermal Baths, where those who can brave the cold air temperatures before getting into the warm waters can enjoy a dip. Later we will visit Laguna Verde (green lagoon) and Laguna Blanca (white lagoon). Today's driving time is approx. 8-9 hours. *Accommodation: Hotel Tayka del Desierto/Mallku Cueva Hotel (or similar)*
After breakfast we will start making our way back to Uyuni airport and fly to La Paz. We leave the amazing landscapes of Uyuni and fly to La Paz (3,640m), the highest administrative capital in the world. We begin the tour by riding the innovative cable car system for views over the entire city. Afterwards we will get back on the bus and head to the main square, Plaza Murillo, in the old town, where we find the Presidential Palace, government congress buildings, and the Cathedral. Next, we visit the Basilica of San Francisco, famed for its mestizo-baroque façade depicting masks, dragons, tropical birds and snakes. *Accommodation: Hotel Qantu (or similar) *
We drive towards Copacabana, crossing the Tiquina Strait by boat (a short, ten minute ride) and following the shores of Lake Titicaca for much of the journey (the total drive time is approx. 4.5 hours). On arrival at Copacabana we board another boat and travel for an hour to Lake Titicaca’s beautiful Isla del Sol, disembarking at Pillkokaina port where we ascend to the Sun Temple. We will walk (approx. 1.5 hours) to our eco-lodge, which allows us to take in the stunning surroundings; deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca in contrast to the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real. From the lodge the setting sun in the west casts a lovely light across the mountains ahead. Your main luggage will be left on the transport (which we leave at Copacabana) so you need only take an overnight bag to Isla del Sol. We recommend keeping any valuables with you. *Accommodation: Ecolodge La Estancia (or similar) *
Today has been left free to enjoy walking around this beautiful island or we can organise an optional boat trip to another highlight of this area: Moon Island. *Accommodation: Ecolodge La Estancia (or similar)*
After breakfast we will walk to the Fountain of Eternal Youth before we make the same return journey back (by boat to Copacabana, bus and then a short ferry ride across the Tiquina Strait) and head towards the Pre-Columbian ruins of Tiwanaku, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approx. 3.5hrs driving). Founded around 1500BC, Tiwanaku became the capital of a massive empire that lasted almost a thousand years, developing into a sophisticated urban ceremonial complex. After lunch we have a guided visit of the site. In the late afternoon we drive approximately one hour and a half to the airport in La Paz and then have an evening flight back to Santa Cruz. *Accommodation: Armonia Hotel (or similar) *
For those travelling on a land only basis, the tour ends after breakfast. The group flight is scheduled to depart very early this morning.
* 10 nights hotels, 2 nights salts hotel and 2 nights eco-lodge
* Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
* Time spent at altitude
* Travel by private minibus, 4WD, boat and 3 internal flights
* Some long drives and early starts
* Day walk in Amboró N.P
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners are included.
Some of the lunches are box lunches whilst others are restaurant
meals. Where meals are not included your leader will be able to recommend a
variety of local restaurants.
Drinking water will be provided in large containers to minimise the amount of
single-use plastic bottles; please bring a refillable bottle with you.
Bolivian cuisine is a fusion between Spanish and Andean traditions and varies
from one region to another. In the lowlands fruit, vegetables, yucca and
fish are abundant whereas in the altiplano these are less readily available
and there are more spiced dishes to combat the cold. Bolivian cuisine has a
reputation for its meat dishes but corn (maize), quinoa and potatoes are also
part of the staple diet.
Common street food and snacks include ‘salteñas’ (baked pastries filled
with spiced meat or vegetables), ‘buñuelos’ (sweet or savoury bread –
often stuffed with cheese) and ‘papas rellenas’ (deep-fried battered
stuffed potatoes).
Popular main dishes include ‘pique a lo macho’ (a kind of beef stir-fry,
served with chunky chips), ‘picante de pollo’ (spicy chicken) and
‘tucumanas’ (a sort of pasty). In Sucre try ‘mondongo’ (a dish made
of chicharron – crispy fried pork usually accompanied by corn, potatoes and
a rich chilli sauce) and in La Paz check out a ‘sandwich de chola’ (pork
sandwich).
* 10 nights hotels, 2 nights salts hotel and 2 nights eco-lodge
* Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Min. age 16 yrs
* Time spent at altitude
* Travel by private minibus, 4WD, boat and 3 internal flights
* Some long drives and early starts
* Day walk in Amboró N.P
Bolivia is less developed than many of its South American counterparts and
things do not always happen as planned; expect the unexpected and approach
travel here with an adventurous spirit.
There is a daywalk through the jungle of Amboró National Park and a walk to
our lodge at the top of Isla del Sol. The sightseeing around archaeological
sites and tours of some of the cities may involve walking up and down steep
streets or on uneven steps/ground. As such, you should have a good level of
mobility and a reasonable level of fitness.
Although graded Leisurely/Moderate (level 2), the altitude can make physical
activity feel more tiring than at sea level. As this trip spends considerable
time at altitude we ask you to refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip
Notes for more information and advice on how to limit the effects of altitude
sickness. The tour allows for gradual acclimatisation, spending two days in
Sucre (2,800m) before continuing to Potosí (4,060m), Salar de Uyuni (ranging
from between 3,650m and 4,850m), La Paz (3,640m) and the Isla del Sol
(4,000m). The maximum altitude on this trip is 4,850m at Sol de Mañana –
please ensure that your insurance covers you up to this altitude.
Due to the altitude you should expect some low temperatures, particularly
during the Salar de Uyuni adventure when it regularly falls well below
freezing at night.
There are some long drives during the tour and in Uyuni you will spend a
considerable amount of time in the 4WD vehicle, although there will be
plenty of stops to enjoy the landscape, take photos, and to explore on
foot.
Samaipata is little-visited and accommodation and facilities here and also in
Uyuni town are basic.
Strikes are not uncommon in Bolivia and whilst these are generally peaceful
protests, they can result in roadblocks and disruption to travel. In this
event, your leader will amend your itinerary if necessary to minimise any
impact on the itinerary.
Hotels, Salt Hotel & Eco-lodge
10 nights hotels, 2 nights salt hotel and 2 nights eco-lodge – all nights
based on twin-share with en suite facilities.
The hotels usually used are listed within the itinerary and below, however
occasionally these may vary by departure date due to availability. The
hotels are generally a 3-star local rating and have been carefully selected
for their location, quality and character. Accommodation standards in
Bolivia are generally lower than their South American counterparts and
standards of accommodation on this trip vary from one location to another.
Our hotel in Santa Cruz is new and contemporary in style; rooms have
air-conditioning and there is an outdoor swimming pool. Accommodation choice
within Samaipata is limited and so we stay at Quinta Pirai Cabanas, located
on a hillside with views over the valley, about a few kilometres from town -
it's fairly simple accommodation but has a pool and lovely gardens, so is a
very tranquil spot. Capital Plaza Hotel in Sucre is a family-run hotel of
colonial style. The large converted colonial house has a covered roof terrace
and the rooms are furnished with antique furniture. In Potosí, our
accommodation is simple but has character and is close to the town centre.
Salar de Uyuni tours have a reputation for being a bit of a hardship but we
have selected some of the better hotels available. Probably the highlight
will be our night at the Hotel Palacio de Sal, a unique property that is
entirely built with salt, from the walls, floors and ceilings to the
furniture and sculptures! It has hot water and heating (electric/central
depending on the room), a games room, and a viewing room to observe the
starry nights, sunsets and sunrises across the salt flats.
In La Paz we stay in the comfortable Hotel Qantu located on a busy street but
close to the famous Witches Market and around the corner from the Basilica
of San Francisco.
Should you wish to extend your stay, Exodus can also arrange extra nights in
Santa Cruz for you before or after the tour. Single supplements should be
requested at the time of booking and are subject to availability.
All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners are included.
Some of the lunches are box lunches whilst others are restaurant
meals. Where meals are not included your leader will be able to recommend a
variety of local restaurants.
Drinking water will be provided in large containers to minimise the amount of
single-use plastic bottles; please bring a refillable bottle with you.
Bolivian cuisine is a fusion between Spanish and Andean traditions and varies
from one region to another. In the lowlands fruit, vegetables, yucca and
fish are abundant whereas in the altiplano these are less readily available
and there are more spiced dishes to combat the cold. Bolivian cuisine has a
reputation for its meat dishes but corn (maize), quinoa and potatoes are also
part of the staple diet.
Common street food and snacks include ‘salteñas’ (baked pastries filled
with spiced meat or vegetables), ‘buñuelos’ (sweet or savoury bread –
often stuffed with cheese) and ‘papas rellenas’ (deep-fried battered
stuffed potatoes).
Popular main dishes include ‘pique a lo macho’ (a kind of beef stir-fry,
served with chunky chips), ‘picante de pollo’ (spicy chicken) and
‘tucumanas’ (a sort of pasty). In Sucre try ‘mondongo’ (a dish made
of chicharron – crispy fried pork usually accompanied by corn, potatoes and
a rich chilli sauce) and in La Paz check out a ‘sandwich de chola’ (pork
sandwich).
A variety of transport is used during this tour and vehicle types may vary
depending on group size: travel is by boat, 4WD, private minibus/coach and
three internal flights.
In Uyuni we spend three days exploring the salt flats and Avaroa National
Park by 4WD. There will usually be 4 passengers per vehicle.
The boat from Copacabana to/from Isla del Sol is a private boat. Crossing the
Tiquina Strait is done on a shared ferry service.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 17 Days*
The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the day before
Day 1 of the itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of Air Europa (depending on
availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend
you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm
up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and
cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure.
Internal flights during the trip are with either Boliviana de Aviación
Airlines or Amazonas Airlines, depending on availability.
*Travelling land only: 15 days starting in Santa Cruz and ending in La Paz*
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Samaitapa on the evening
of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are
provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks
before departure.
The dry season in Bolivia is generally from May to October, and the wet
season from November to March.
Days are slightly shorter in the dry (winter) season, humidity is lower and
more pleasant in the lowlands, and temperatures cooler (especially in the
highlands); cold fronts coming from Patagonia are possible, particularly
between May and August. During August and September, Bolivian farmers burn
overgrown forest areas and the resulting smoke can be quite thick in some
locations.
We do not operate this itinerary in the wet (summer) season.
Differences in topography and climate separate Bolivia’s lowlands and
highlands into distinct areas. Weather conditions vary significantly from
region to region.
*Lowlands, including Santa Cruz* - A humid tropical climate with clear-cut
wet and dry seasons and an average temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). One of the
wettest regions in Bolivia, the rainy season extending from late September to
May, sees an annual rainfall average between 1000 and 4000 mm (40 –
150″). The heavy rainfall is caused by winds blowing in from the Amazon
rainforest. From the month of May there is less rain and more blue sky due to
drier winds.
*Altiplano (highlands), including Lake Titicaca, La Paz, Sucre, Potosí and
Uyuni - *Climate varies from cool and humid to semi-arid. The average annual
temperature ranges from 15 to 27°C (60 – 80ºF) but in the dry season its
more likely to be 10 to 15°C with the coldest temperatures occurring in the
south-western portion of the Altiplano during the months of June and July.
Nights can get very chilly, dropping to around 0 °C. In Salar de Uyuni,
night-time temperatures in the dry season may fall as low as -15°C
(particularly from May to August). Between April and September there is a
chance of snow, especially to the north of the highlands, but it is not very
common. The unrelenting rainy season occurs between December and March, but
we do not run any departures as getting around can be difficult and
treacherous.
For your stay on Isla del Sol your main luggage will be stored with our main
transportation and you will need to take a small overnight bag with you for
the night.
You will encounter a range of temperatures throughout the holiday and the
best solution is to bring lots of layers so you can take them on and off as
needed. Below is not an exhaustive packing list but some essential items you
should take in addition to your normal daily clothing.
Daypack/rucksack
Water bottle
High SPF suncream and lip balm (the sun is strong at altitude)
Sunglasses (UV blocking) - the salt flats give off a dazzling glare when it
is sunny
Sunhat/cap
Woolly hat, gloves and thick bed socks
Thermal leggings/top
Warm jumper/fleece - it can get very cold at night in the highlands/Uyuni
Waterproof/windproof jacket - even if it doesn't rain this will add warmth
Down/synthetic insulated jacket (particularly if travelling from May-August)
Swimwear and a sarong/thin towel - there is usually the chance to swim in the
lagoons in Uyuni
Insect repellent - for the lowlands; Amboro, Samaipata, Santa Cruz
T-shirts
Long-sleeved shirt - to protect against mosquitos and the sun
Lightweight trousers
Walking boots/shoes
Sandals/flip-flops
A copy of your passport - it is advisable to carry a copy with you in Bolivia
Camera
Hand sanitiser
Head torch/flashlight
Personal music player/tablet/book
A pack of playing cards/travel games
Small change is useful in Bolivia and may be needed for things such as using
public toilets throughout the itinerary (usually 1 or 2 BOB).
Food, drinks and similar incidentals can vary in price enormously. Allow
about US$15-20 per person for each meal that is not included in the price of
the tour, to eat at good restaurants. Cheaper food is abundant at small
cafes, although sanitary conditions at these places cannot be guaranteed.
Bottled water and soft drinks are readily available for the equivalent of
around US$1-2/GB£1 (or less) each.
For the domestic flight from Uyuni to La Paz, airport tax of US$1.60 (BOB11)
is payable at the airport in cash. Please ensure you have some change with
you for this.
**
*Optional Excursions*
Prices of excursions vary depending on the number of people taking part. The
prices given within these Trip Notes are intended as a guideline only as
prices may change throughout the season. Prices will be more for smaller
group sizes and less for larger group sizes.
For some activities, a minimum number of participants may be required. Some
activities may not always be possible due to weather, seasonality, national
holidays, or unforeseen circumstances.
Exodus encourages customers to tip local support staff if they would like to.
In Bolivia, it has become customary for local staff to receive tips and these
tips can be an important source of extra income for hard-working crew.
Whether to tip and how much to tip should be a personal decision. We suggest
around US$ 2 - 4 per day for the guide, around US$ 2 per day for local guides
and US$ 1 – 2 per day for the driver.
On this trip, we also recommend running a tipping kitty. A tipping kitty
means we tip as a group, and individuals don’t need to worry about giving
out small tips to various people who have helped during the trip (i.e.
drivers, local guides, boatmen, hotel staff). The contribution per person
per day we suggest is US$5.
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Visas or vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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