Altiplano Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Altiplano with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Altiplano

Altiplano is a high plateau region located in Bolivia, South America, covering an area of approximately 200,000 square kilometers. It is known for its unique Andean culture, magnificent landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The region attracts outdoor enthusiasts and cultural enthusiasts alike, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know for planning a trip to Altiplano.

List of Places to Visit in Altiplano

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tiwanaku Archaeological Site: This is one of the most significant ruins in South America and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site dates back to 400 B.C. and is home to numerous temples, palaces, and plazas.

  • La Paz Witches’ Market: A market where you can find interesting items such as dried llama fetuses, traditional clothing, and herbal remedies, among others.

Natural Attractions of Altiplano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Salar de Uyuni: The largest salt flat in the world, spanning over 10,000 square kilometers. The area is famous for its otherworldly landscape and offers unique opportunities for photography and outdoor activities like hiking.

  • Lake Titicaca: It is the highest navigable lake in the world and straddles the border between Bolivia and Peru. The area is famous for its picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Altiplano

  • The Inca Trail: One of the most famous hiking trails in South America, this trail is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

  • Yunga Cruz Trek: A more challenging hike that crosses the Andes mountain range and passes through valleys and high-altitude lakes that offer stunning views.

Best Things to Do in Altiplano: Activities and Tours

  • Mountain Biking: One way of exploring the beautiful Andean landscapes is by mountain biking. The region has numerous trails and routes for biking enthusiasts.

  • Horseback Riding: This is a unique way to experience the natural beauty and stunning views of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Altiplano

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in La Paz: City Tour
Day 2-3 Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca Tour
Day 4-5 Salar de Uyuni Tour
Day 6 Yunga Cruz Trek: Hiking
Day 7 Departure from La Paz

Food and Drink Scene of Altiplano

Must-Try Dishes

  • Salteñas: These are turnovers filled with a variety of meats, potatoes, and veggies, and are typically eaten for breakfast or as a midday snack.

  • Pachamanca: A traditional dish cooked over hot stones and involves meat, potatoes, and veggies and is served with a spicy peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Coca Tea: This tea is made from coca leaves and is popular among the locals as a way to help with altitude sickness.

  • Chicha: A fermented corn drink that is typically consumed during social events such as festivals.

Where to Stay in Altiplano: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Luna Salada Hotel: A unique hotel that is made entirely of salt and is located near Salar de Uyuni.

  • Casa de la Luna: A family-run guesthouse in Copacabana, near Lake Titicaca, that offers traditional accommodation and home-cooked meals.

What to Buy in Altiplano: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Alpaca Wool Products: The region is famous for its high-quality alpaca wool products like scarves, blankets, and sweaters.

  • Silver Jewellery: The region has numerous artisans who make beautiful silver jewelry with traditional designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Altiplano

Altiplano is known for its unique Andean culture, which is a blend of the indigenous and Spanish cultures. The people are friendly, welcoming, and proud of their heritage. Some of the customs of the region include:

  • Aymara Music and Dance: Traditional music and dance that has been handed down from generation to generation.

  • Aymara Language: Aymara is the main language spoken in the region and is a testament to the deep cultural roots of the people.

Best Time to Visit Altiplano

The best time to visit Altiplano is during the dry season, which is from June to September. This period offers sunny days, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures, which are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Altiplano

Do:

  • Try to learn a few words or phrases of Aymara.

  • Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people or their property.

Don’t:

  • Buy or consume cocaine, which is illegal and can lead to severe consequences.

  • Be disrespectful of the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Altiplano

Altiplano is generally a safe region, but it is always important to practice common sense and take precautions like:

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

  • Keep your belongings safe and do not carry large amounts of cash.

Health in Altiplano

Altitude sickness is a common issue for visitors to the region due to the high altitude. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. It is essential to take it easy during the first few days to adjust to the altitude and to stay well-hydrated.

Getting to Altiplano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Altiplano

The main airport near Altiplano is El Alto International Airport, which is located in La Paz. The airport is well-connected to major cities in South America and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Altiplano

La Paz Bus Terminal is the main bus station near Altiplano and connects the region to other major cities and towns in Bolivia and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Renting a car or hiring a private driver is also an option for travelers who want to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Altiplano

The best way to get around Altiplano is by booking a tour with a reputable tour operator. The region has numerous operators who offer tours to the most popular attractions and destinations.

Where to Go Next from Altiplano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sucre: The constitutional capital of Bolivia, famous for its beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife.

  • Potosi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its silver mines and colonial architecture.

Conclusion

Altiplano is an exceptional travel destination that offers a unique cultural and outdoor experience. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip with ease, knowing the top things to do, places to visit, and where to stay. Don’t miss the chance to explore this awe-inspiring region.

The Salar de Uyuni salt flat The Salar de Uyuni salt flat


    La Paz (department, Bolivia)
    Oruro (department)
    Potosí (department)
    Salar de Uyuni