Bolivia is the second country we visited after Peru in our 3 months long South America trip, we spent about 1 week in Bolivia. It feels really out-of-the-earth venturing into the captivating lands of Bolivia and the awe-inspiring Atacama Desert (in Chile). From the bustling streets of La Paz to the mesmerizing salt flats of Uyuni, and the breathtaking beauty of San Pedro de Atacama, this journey is filled with picturesque landscapes. Join us as we recount our travels through these enchanting destinations.
La Paz
We took a bus by Boliviahop from Puno to La Paz, crossing the border at Copacabana. Although we had just a day in this vibrant city, it left an indelible mark on our hearts. We meandered through bustling markets, mesmerized by the colorful array of local crafts and vibrant textiles. And oh, the buses! They were like running artifacts, adorned with vintage designs and vibrant hues. For a brief moment you might even think you have taken the time machine.
It’s ashamed that we didn’t plan much time in La Paz, if I would plan for my next trip, I would choose to fly to La Paz, for it’s airport being one of the highest in the world!
The Salt Flats of Uyuni
Our journey continued as we hopped on a bus to Uyuni, the gateway to the mesmerizing salt flats. We enjoyed the services provided by Todo Turismo.
Uyuni is a quiet tourist town, eager without anticipation, we signed up for a tour from one of the local agency to continue our trip.
There are a number of agencies and tours of choice, there are photography tours aiming to capture the sunrise or sunset scenery at the salt flats. As well as the scenary with water, which give the famous view of “mirror of the sky”‘. For range of tours available you may have a look at the PlanetD website.
We chose a cross border trip from Uyuni to Atacama desert without return, which is one of the most popular tour. Typically the first day it includes a visit to a salt factory, the train cemetery, Incahuasi Island for an elevated view of the salt flat, and of course inside the salt flat. The first night usually ends with a stay in a “salt hotel“. The second day is no less surprising. The tour unfolded like a cinematic masterpiece. Every moment was a feast for the eyes, as we soaked in the boundless beauty of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, which is lesser known to us. It’s one of my favorite part of our entire South America trip. For more details of a similar tour itinerary, you can find more here.
What adds the mixed feeling to us is that this was not just another tour visiting more otherworldly landscapes, but also we forged friendships that would forever hold a special place in our hearts. We are super lucky to have met fun tourmates that we spent hours capturing creative pictures for each other, for this being an extraordinarily scenic tour. Yet, amidst the laughter, a pang of sadness struck when one of our dear friends succumbed to the altitude’s adverse effects, compelling them to make the journey back.
The Scenic Marvels: Atacama Desert
San Pedro de Atacama welcomed us with its arid embrace, where even wet towels hung out to dry were swiftly transformed by the desert’s relentless dryness.
Another thing to note is the cost of the tours you find in the small tourist town of San Pedro de Atacama, quite a contrast compared with Uyuni. There are so many things you can do in the area hence there’s a wide range of tours available. Besides, the tour agencies and the price of a similar package varied greatly too, do try to research more before you make any decisions.
As for us, the only regret is, again, we didn’t plan the stay to be long enough. We only managed to join one tour to visit the Altiplano Lagoon. We loved it so much that everywhere we turned, there was a postcard-worthy vista that beckoned us to stay a little longer.
Here’s a few links that I think could help your research on the activities available,
1. Atacama Desert Tours by Tierra Hotel
2. Tours by TravelCoachChile
Our escapade through Bolivia and the Atacama Desert was a journey of discovery, connection, and natural wonders. From the bustling markets of La Paz to the surreal landscapes of the salt flats and the awe-inspiring vistas of the Atacama Desert, every step of the way left an indelible imprint on our souls. As we bid farewell to these enchanting destinations, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the unforgettable experiences, the friendships we forged, and the immeasurable beauty of South America. Until our next adventure, ¡hasta luego!