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Bolivia, a land of breathtaking contrasts and untamed beauty, beckons the adventurous spirit. From the dizzying heights of La Paz, nestled within a dramatic Andean valley, to the surreal expanse of the Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flats, this South American gem offers a truly unique travel experience. With Oasis Overland, you'll embark on an immersive journey, venturing beyond the typical tourist trail, and diving deep into the heart of Bolivian culture and landscapes. Expect vibrant markets, ancient traditions, and awe-inspiring natural wonders, all encountered within the camaraderie of an overland expedition.
La Paz
From the Peru border, it is a day’s drive to the capital of Bolivia - La Paz. This is a great place to visit a 'peña' club, dedicated to Andean folk music, and perhaps buy some souvenirs in one of the authentic markets such as the witches’ market. It’s also well worth while exploring the city using the network of cable cars stretching up the hillsides.
La Paz to Uyuni
Leaving La Paz we enter real Bolivia, where the Aymara and Quechua Indians scrape a living from their small plots of land in the harsh climate and paved roads are virtually non-existent. A couple of day’s driving and overnight bush camp bring us to one of Bolivia’s most beautiful cities, Sucre. Known as the ‘4 Names City’ because of its long and varied history, the city is at a lower altitude than La Paz and enjoys a warmer and greener climate. The Cretaceous Park is well worth a visit, as you can see and learn about the thousands of remarkable dinosaur footprints discovered here, including the largest ever found, from a Titanosaur weighing over 70 tonnes!.
A short drive then brings us to Potosi. At over 4000m it is the highest city of its size in the world and 400 years ago it was the largest city in all the Americas. Vast amounts of silver were extracted from Potosi and shipped to Spain in years gone by. The adventurous may take the opportunity to go down one of these mines where mining techniques have remained unchanged for centuries, though read up on safety concerns first. Visiting the ancient mint or having a tour around the Casa Nacional de Moneda (National Money House) also provides a good look into Potosi's and Bolivia's past.
Leaving the bleak Altiplano we arrive at the shimmering white Salt Flats of Uyuni. With no roads and only vague tracks to follow, taking an optional jeep trip out onto the salt flats and salt lakes makes for an unforgettable experience.
Oasis Overland Trips that include Bolivia
Experience Bolivia on the classic overland route from Quito to Rio:
QUITO TO RIO (114 DAYS) KINGDOMS & CARNIVALS
For those of you who enjoy a challenge, join us for an overland expedition which takes you to some of the most remote places you will ever be privileged to visit. Discover the true South America with a trip that is tough but extremely rewarding! Endure bumpy rides, back to basics camping and cooking in extreme conditions whilst experiencing the beautiful landscapes and getting to know the amazing people you meet along the way. As we reach our final destination why not reward yourself by joining in with Rio's carnival spirit, in time for their legendary carnival or New Year's Eve celebrations.
Or as part of a shorter adventure from Lima to Santiago:
LIMA TO SANTIAGO (39 DAYS) THE CORDILLERAS
Make memories that will last a lifetime with our 39 day trail along the coastlines, mountains and the altiplano of South America. Travel to the mysterious Nazca Lines and the beautiful city of Arequipa before climbing into the Andes. Witness ancient Incan archaeological sights such as famous Machu Picchu at the end of the Inca Trail. In Bolivia we see the striking natural landscape of the vast Salt Flats and learn about the cultures of the indigenous people who live here. Get your blood pumping with a selection of adrenaline fuelled activities such as sandboarding in the Peruvian desert, before exploring the wine district of northern Argentina, the local colonial towns and the great bars and restaurants of Lima and Santiago. With a taste of everything, this tour gives you the opportunity to get a real feel for South American culture.