10-Day Bolivia Itinerary: La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Sucre and the Uyuni Salt Flats

Photo: Luca Galuzzi, CC BY-SA 2.5

Jet Set LatAM · Itinerary

Bolivia is one of South America’s most dramatic and least crowded countries: a capital strung across a canyon, a sacred lake at the top of the world and a salt flat so vast it mirrors the sky. Ten days lets you see the highlights without rushing — and building it as a custom, privately guided trip makes the altitude and distances far easier.

Before you plan: altitude

La Paz sits around 3,600 meters, and most of this route stays high. Plan an easy first day, drink plenty of water and talk to your doctor about altitude. Domestic flights save long overland hours.

Days 1–2: La Paz

Ride Mi Teleférico, the city’s cable-car network and one of the largest urban systems in the world, for sweeping views over the canyon. Wander the Witches’ Market, visit the Valle de la Luna rock formations and book a special dinner at Gustu, the restaurant that helped put Bolivian cuisine on the map. Stay somewhere comfortable and design-led — our Atix Hotel La Paz review is a good start.

Days 3–4: Lake Titicaca

Drive to Copacabana, crossing the Strait of Tiquina by ferry, with an optional stop at the Tiwanaku ruins. Take a boat to Isla del Sol, legendary birthplace of the Inca, to walk ancient terraces and watch the light on the water. Return to La Paz.

Days 5–6: Sucre

Fly to Sucre, the whitewashed colonial city and Bolivia’s constitutional capital. Slow down in its plazas, museums and markets; it is one of the most graceful cities in South America.

Day 7: Potosí

On the way toward Uyuni, stop in Potosí, whose silver mines once funded an empire. A guided visit adds depth to the country’s history.

Days 8–10: Uyuni salt flats

Base yourself near Colchani, the gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, and spend two full days exploring: endless white horizons, cactus-covered islands, high-altitude lagoons with flamingos and some of the clearest night skies on Earth. Salt hotels and high-end camps make the remote stay comfortable. Fly back to La Paz to depart.

When to go

The dry months, roughly May to October, bring clear skies and easier travel (and cold nights). From about January to March, rain can flood the salt flats into a giant mirror — magical, but some routes may be limited.

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Where to stay

Mix a design hotel in La Paz, a lakeside lodge near Titicaca, a colonial stay in Sucre and a salt hotel in Uyuni. The flight search and live accommodation map below help you plan.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Bolivia?

Ten days covers La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Sucre and Uyuni at a comfortable pace.

What is the best time to visit the Uyuni salt flats?

May to October for clear skies; January to March for the mirror effect.

Is altitude a problem in Bolivia?

It can be. Acclimatize slowly, hydrate and seek medical advice before you go.

Should I book a custom tour?

For comfort and logistics at altitude, a private, tailor-made trip is the easiest way to see Bolivia.

Keep reading

• Christmas in Bolivia

Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you book or buy through them, Jet Set LatAM may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This is a researched editorial guide; details, hours, prices and travel advisories change, so confirm before you go.