Backpacking Bolivia: Our Tips

Why Go Backpacking Bolivia

Bolivia is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of breathtaking natural wonders and rich cultural heritage, yet it often remains off the radar for many backpackers.

From the otherworldly landscapes of the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, to the vibrant Indigenous cultures (the largest percentage of the Indigenous population in South America) found in its cities and rural areas, Bolivia invites travelers to immerse themselves in its diverse beauty. La Paz, the highest capital in the world, and the colonial charm of Sucre showcase the country’s rich history.

With its stunning biodiversity, particularly in places like Madidi National Park, and a wealth of adventure activities such as trekking and hiking, Bolivia provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment—all at an affordable price. Bolivia is still a relatively unknown tourist destination, which makes it a hidden gem for those looking to explore beyond the typical backpacker trails. Read this post to get to know why we loved backpacking Bolivia (and stayed three months)!

Regions of Bolivia

Lake Titicaca and Copacabana

In the north of the country just over the border with Peru, you can find Copacabana as the Bolivian gateway to Lake Titicaca, the heighest navigable lake in the world, at 3,810m (12,500 feet). Copacabana is smaller than Puno on the Peruvian side and we liked it better, and is a classic stop point on the way to/from Peru. Our highlight in this region was Isla del Sol a laid-back island on Lake Titicaca which feels like a mixture between Mediterranean and Altiplano. Read here our guide about Isla del Sol.

La Paz and Cordillera Real

La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, is nestled in a deep valley surrounded by the stunning Cordillera Real, a mountain range in the Andes brimming with mountains over 6000m high. Sitting at an altitude of around 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), La Paz is one of the highest cities in the world, offering dramatic views of the towering peaks that encircle it. The steep streets together with the altitude makes breathing difficult especially if you go to El Alto (altitude about 4150m).

Home to almost 2 million people (together with El Alto), this city is loud, chaotic, and loco. When we arrived the first time we were directly caught in some demonstrations, which are not uncommon here.

The Cordillera Real itself is home to some of Bolivia’s most iconic mountains, such as Illimani and Huayna Potosí, both of which are visible from the city. This mountain range, with its glacial valleys, high-altitude lakes, and diverse ecosystems, forms a striking backdrop to the vibrant, bustling city. The blend of indigenous culture and colonial history in La Paz, combined with the rugged beauty of the Cordillera Real, makes it a unique and visually stunning destination. Visitors can explore the city’s markets, ride the iconic cable car system, and venture into the surrounding mountains for trekking and mountaineering adventures. Read here on how to climb Pico Austria or do the El Choro Trek when backpacking Bolivia.

Rurrenabaque: Pampas & Jungle

Rurrenabaque is a small, bustling town in the lowlands of northern Bolivia, located at the edge of the Madidi National Park and near the junction of the Beni and Tuichi rivers. This gateway to Bolivia’s Amazonian rainforest offers access to both the Pampas (tropical wetlands) and the Selva (rainforest) regions. Rurrenabaque is a laid-back, rural town with around 30,000 residents that has gained international attention for its proximity to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, where palm-fringed streets and wooden houses blend with the surrounding jungle. A hammock is a must. More about Rurrenabaque: Rurrenabaque: Bolivia’s Gateway to the Jungle.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Samaipata

While we did not visit Santa Cruz, it is Bolivia’s largest city and its economic powerhouse, located in the eastern lowlands of the country. With a population of over 2 million people only in the city itself, Santa Cruz is a rapidly growing urban center, known for its modern infrastructure and commercial activity. Unlike La Paz, Santa Cruz has a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather year-round, which contrasts sharply with the high-altitude cold of the Andean cities and attracts many expats to migrate there. The city is Bolivia’s main hub for agriculture, industry, and business, with expansive areas dedicated to farming, especially soy, sugarcane, and cattle. Santa Cruz also serves as a gateway to Bolivia’s Amazon region and to Brazil and Paraguay.

About a 3-hour drive and 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Santa Cruz, the small town of Samaipata offers a completely different experience. Located in the foothills of the Andes at an altitude of about 1,700 meters (5,577 feet), Samaipata is a peaceful, picturesque destination known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The town is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine rivers, making it a popular spot for hiking, eco-tourism, and relaxation. Read here about the Codo de los Andes, an amazing day hike. Samaipata is also home to the Fuerte de Samaipata, an ancient pre-Columbian archaeological site that was once a center of the indigenous Chané culture, later used by the Incas. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and features an impressive rock fortress with intricate carvings and terraces. Today, Samaipata is known as a quiet, charming escape from the hustle of the larger cities, attracting tourists with its laid-back atmosphere, outdoor activities, and historical intrigue. Read our full guide about Samaipata: Bolivia Samaipata – A guide to visit the hippie-town

Sucre and Surroundings

Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is a beautiful colonial city located in the south-central part of the country, at an altitude of about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Sucre has a rich cultural and historical significance, having been the site where Bolivia declared its independence in 1825. With a population of around 300,000, Sucre is often considered Bolivia’s most picturesque city, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We loved the city and spent a lot of time trying all the great cafes of the city. Read more here: Best Cafés in Bolivia.

The surroundings of Sucre are equally captivating, with a range of natural wonders and historical sites to explore. One of the most striking features of the region is the Maragua Crater, located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of the city. This massive geological feature is an ancient impact crater that is thought to have formed millions of years ago. The Maragua Crater is part of the Isla de Cañas Protected Area, a unique landscape with impressive rock formations, rolling hills, and lush valleys. The crater’s circular structure is home to several small indigenous communities, and the area is rich in both natural beauty and cultural significance. Read here on how to hike the Maragua Crater in 3 days: How to do the Maragua Crater Hike without a Guide (2024).

Cochabamba

At around 2500m (8400 feet) altitude, Cochabamba is a vibrant city in central Bolivia, known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild, temperate climate. Located in a fertile valley surrounded by the Andes, Cochabamba has a population of about 700,000 and is a major cultural and agricultural hub and hip culinary scene (especially ice cream!). We visited Cochabamba mainly because we did a meditation course here.

Many people backpacking in Bolivia come to visit the Torotoro National Park, showcasing caves and dinosaur footprints, and Laguna Angostura, a peaceful lake perfect for outdoor activities.

Potosí

Potosí is a historic city in southern Bolivia, famous for its rich mining heritage and colonial architecture. Located at an altitude of about 4,090 meters (13,420 feet), it is one of the highest cities in the world. Potosí was once one of the wealthiest cities in the Americas due to the vast silver deposits found in the nearby Cerro Rico mountain, which was mined extensively from the 16th century onward. The mountain’s silver helped fuel the Spanish Empire, but also led to the exploitation of indigenous and slave labor, making the city a symbol of both wealth and suffering.

The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with well-preserved colonial buildings, including the Santa Teresa Convent and the Potosí Cathedral. The Casa de la Moneda, the old mint where Spanish coins were once struck from the mined silver, is another major attraction.

Beyond its history, Potosí offers visitors a chance to explore the nearby Cerro Rico mines, where modern-day miners still extract minerals, often under harsh conditions. We were debating several days if we wanted to visit the mines but decided in the end against it.

Uyuni and the Salt Flats

Uyuni is a small town in southwest Bolivia, most famous as the gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world. At an altitude of about 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), Uyuni is a remote and often surreal destination, attracting travelers from around the world who come to experience the vast, otherworldly landscape of the salt flats.

The Salar de Uyuni stretches over 10,000 square kilometers (3,900 square miles) and is made up of a thick crust of salt, formed from ancient lakes that evaporated millions of years ago. In the dry season, the flats appear as an endless, stark white expanse, creating a stunning visual effect, especially during sunrise and sunset. When covered with a thin layer of water, the salt flats form a massive, reflective mirror, creating one of the most photogenic and surreal landscapes on the planet.

Read all our tips for the tour here: Salar de Uyuni Bolivia: Here are our Tips for a Successful Trip.

A trip in the Salar is a classic transition point for backpackers continuing their journey to Chile, with tours including transportation to San Pedro de Atacama.

Sajama National Park

Sajama National Park, located in western Bolivia near the Chilean border, is a stunning natural reserve known for its dramatic landscapes, towering snow-capped peaks, and unique biodiversity. At the heart of the park lies the majestic Sajama volcano, Bolivia’s highest peak at 6,542 meters (21,463 feet). The park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from high-altitude puna grasslands to alpine forests, and is home to rare wildlife such as the Andean fox, vicuñas (cameloids from the llama family), and condors. It also features hot springs and geysers, making it a serene yet captivating destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Find out how to do a multiday hike in the national park: Lagunas de Altura Hike – Sajama National Park Bolivia.

Sajama is near the Chilean border and can be a getaway point to Chile’s Lauca national park and further beach town of Arica.

Tarija

The Tarija region, located in southern Bolivia, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a touch of the “wild west” spirit. At an altitude of around 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level, Tarija enjoys a temperate climate with warm days and cool nights, creating perfect conditions for agriculture, especially wine production. The region’s rugged landscapes, with rolling hills, vast vineyards, and the dramatic foothills of the Andes, evoke a sense of frontier adventure, as if time has stood still in certain parts of the region.

We did not visit Tarija, but we enjoyed the wine of the region which can be found in a lot of mercados and supermarkets throughout Bolivia.

Best Hikes in Bolivia

Here is a list of our favorite hikes we did in Bolivia:

• Multidayhike next to Sucre (possible without your own tent): How to do the Maragua Crater Hike without a Guide (2024)
• Multidayhike from La Paz: El Choro Trek Bolivia: How to do it Self-Guided (2024)
• Also next to La Paz: How to hike the Condoriri Trek and climb Pico Austria without a Guide
• Dayhike from Samaipata: Codo de los Andes Hike without Guide
• Multidayhike in the Sajama National Park: Lagunas de Altura Hike – Sajama National Park Bolivia

Accommodation for Backpackers in Bolivia

Bolivia offers a wide range of accommodations suited for backpackers, making it easy to find budget-friendly options. Hostels are abundant in major cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Uyuni but we did not find a lot of options that have a kitchen for the guests. Read her our guide in hostels with a kitchen in Bolivia.

In addition to hostels, backpackers can find guesthouses and budget hotels, often featuring private rooms at reasonable rates. In rural areas, some communities offer homestays, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture while supporting the community.

Camping is also an option in certain national parks and remote areas, providing a more adventurous experience.

Cost of Backpacking in Bolivia

Backpacking in Bolivia is generally very affordable, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers. Daily expenses can be quite low, a private double room is typically around 100 – 140 Bolivianos (we didn’t stay in dorms in Bolivia). Meals at local eateries cost just a few dollars (Menu del Dia 10-20 BOB), and street food is even cheaper (Saltenas, Empanadas or Cunapes for 3-6 BOB). Transportation, whether by bus or shared taxi, is also inexpensive – shared collectives in the cities cost 1-2 BOB. Activities, such as tours to the Uyuni Salt Flats or visits to national parks, can vary in price but often remain budget-friendly with an average of 800 BOB for a 3-day, all-included tour. Overall, backpackers can expect to spend around $15 to $50 per day, depending on personal preferences and activities.

The current dollar crisis in Bolivia created a parallel exchange rate to the official rate, so it's worth to bring Dollars to Bolivia.

Best Time to Visit Bolivia

The best time to visit Bolivia largely depends on the region and activities you’re interested in. Generally, the dry season from May to October is ideal for most travelers, especially for exploring the highlands, including places like La Paz and the Uyuni Salt Flats. During these months, the weather is cooler and more stable.

For the Amazon region, the wet season from November to March is also a good time to visit, as the rainforest is lush and wildlife is more active, though some areas may be harder to access due to rain. Take into account the rain also brings mosquitoes.

We traveled in Bolivia from the middle of August to the middle of November where we already had some rain.

What to Pack

When packing for a trip to Bolivia, it’s important to consider the country’s diverse climates and activities. Here are some essentials:

1. Layered Clothing: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing for the warmer regions, and warmer layers for the highlands, where temperatures can drop significantly at night.
2. Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential for exploring the diverse landscapes, along with sandals for casual wear.
3. Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho is crucial, especially if visiting during the wet season.
4. Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The high altitude means stronger UV rays, so protection against the sun is important.
5. Personal Items: Don’t forget toiletries, a refillable water bottle, and a small first aid kit.
6. Electronics: A power adapter and a portable charger will be useful, especially in remote areas. The standard voltage in Bolivia is 230 volts (V) at a frequency of 50 hertz (Hz)
7. Backpack: A comfortable, medium-sized backpack is ideal for day trips and longer treks.
8. Camping and Hiking gear: Only if you plan to go for multi-day hikes like El Choro. It might also be possible to rent gear or just go with a tour company but we brought our own gear.
9. Dollars or Euros: To make more of your money than with the official exchange rate.

How to get around: Local Transportation in Bolivia

Transportation in Bolivia offers a variety of options for travelers, each suited to different needs and budgets. Long-distance buses are the most common way to travel between cities, providing an affordable and relatively comfortable means of transport, with services ranging from basic to more luxurious options. For shorter distances, shared taxis, or “trufis,” are popular and economical, especially in urban areas.

In cities like La Paz, public transportation includes buses and the innovative Mi Teleférico cable car system, which offers stunning views while efficiently connecting different neighborhoods. While road conditions can vary, many routes are well-maintained, and traveling by bus can be a scenic experience.

Overall, while traveling in Bolivia can sometimes be slow, the affordability and variety of transportation options make it accessible for backpackers. See here how to plan longer bus rides.

Visa Requirements for Bolivia

Visa requirements for Bolivia vary depending on your nationality. Many South American countries, as well as some European nations, do not require a visa for short stays, typically up to 90 days. Travelers from the United States, Israel, Canada, Australia, and several Asian countries need to obtain a visa in advance or pay a fee upon arrival, which can be for up to 90 days as well. (We applied for a Visa for Shir in Cusco for 30 days, and then extended it by 60 days in Sucre).

It’s essential to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and proof of onward travel. Additionally, some travelers may be asked for a yellow fever vaccination certificate, especially if arriving from an endemic area. It’s advisable to check the latest requirements on the official Bolivian government website or through the nearest consulate, as regulations can change.