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With snow-covered peaks, salt flats and tropical valleys, Bolivia is one of South America’s great trekking destinations. Its main routes lie at high altitude, with peaks rising above 6,000 metres. Good acclimatisation and suitable gear are essential for hiking in Bolivia.
Key takeaways:
- The Cordillera Real, Altiplano and Yungas are Bolivia’s main trekking regions.
- Huayna Potosí (6,088 m), the Choro Trail and the Salar de Uyuni offer very different experiences.
- Gear suited to intense cold and high-altitude UV exposure is essential.
- Gradual acclimatisation is necessary above 3,000 metres.
A country of altitude and contrasts
The main trekking regions
Bolivia has an exceptional variety of landscapes. In the west, the Cordillera Real is the setting for high-mountain treks: peaks regularly reach 5,000 metres, and some exceed 6,000 metres. In the south-west, the Altiplano’s high plateaus, colourful lagoons, volcanoes and desert expanses reveal another side of the country. The Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is one of its most iconic landscapes. Finally, the Yungas form a transition between the cold highlands of the Altiplano and the Amazonian lowlands, where the mountains gradually give way to green valleys.
Exceptional variety across the altitudes
Within a few dozen kilometres, the landscape shifts from icy high mountains to subtropical valleys. Trekking in Bolivia also offers a chance to learn about local Aymara and Quechua cultures, which remain prominent in the Andean regions, on routes through areas that are still largely unspoilt and sparsely developed.
The best time to hike in Bolivia
Bolivia has two main seasons: the dry season from May to October and the rainy season from November to March. Go between May and October for the best conditions: rainfall is rare, trails are passable and views of the peaks are clear.
The top trekking routes in Bolivia
Climbing Huayna Potosí
In the Cordillera Real, Huayna Potosí rises to 6,088 metres and is among the world’s most accessible 6,000-metre peaks. The standard guided ascent takes two days and includes an introduction to using crampons and an ice axe. It is accessible to those without mountaineering experience, but remains demanding: the altitude and glacier conditions require thorough preparation and prior acclimatisation.
The Choro Trail
Accessible from La Paz, the Choro Trail is often named among South America’s most scenic treks. The 50-kilometre route takes 3 to 4 days. It starts at nearly 4,900 metres in the Cordillera Real and descends gradually towards the Yungas, at around 1,200 metres. Following an ancient pre-Columbian path, it passes through dramatically different landscapes, from high Andean peaks to subtropical valleys.
The Takesi Trail
Part of the network of Inca routes, the Takesi Trail covers 40 kilometres over 2 to 3 days, crossing high-altitude passes before descending through increasingly dense vegetation. Remains of paved paths and historic stone structures mark the route.
Exploring the Salar de Uyuni on foot
Exploring the Salar de Uyuni is not a conventional trek covering dozens of kilometres. Guided tours last 1 to 3 days and combine the world’s largest salt flat (3,650 m) with Sud Lípez, which rises to 5,000 metres. You’ll walk across the salt flat and see Incahuasi Island and its giant cacti, the colourful lagoons of the Altiplano, geysers and hot springs.
For more route ideas at altitude or in different climates, explore our guides to trekking in Sri Lanka and trekking in Namibia, as well as our full selection of trekking trips.
Gear up for Bolivia’s high altitudes
The three-layer system
The main challenge when trekking in Bolivia is protecting yourself from the cold, wind and very intense UV radiation at the same time. Above 4,000 metres, sun exposure is particularly strong. At night, temperatures can fall to -15 °C in some areas. A three-layer system is the most effective solution: a breathable base layer (ideally merino wool), an insulating midlayer and a waterproof, windproof outer layer.
Technical UV-protective shirt
Midlayer for extreme cold
Hiking boots
For a trek in the Cordillera Real, rugged terrain and cold conditions call for sturdy, waterproof high-cut boots. In the Yungas, a lighter, more breathable pair is better suited to the region’s warm, humid climate.
Protection from the sun and night-time cold
At high altitude, pack category 4 sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip protection and a hat. For nights in a mountain refuge or tent, a sleeping bag with a comfort rating of at least -15 °C is essential on the highest routes. For early-morning ascents such as Huayna Potosí, pack glove liners, warm gloves, a beanie and a neck gaiter to protect your extremities.
Practical advice for hiking in Bolivia
Altitude acclimatisation
Altitude is the main challenge when trekking in Bolivia. Above 3,000 metres, do not increase your sleeping altitude by more than 500 metres per day. At around 3,500 metres, La Paz is a good place to acclimatise: plan to spend two to three nights there before heading for the peaks. Ascending too quickly puts you at risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS), known as “soroche” in Bolivia. Headaches, nausea, fatigue and disturbed sleep are the first signs. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Coca leaves and medication
Coca leaves are part of Andean culture and are legally consumed in Bolivia, either chewed or brewed as tea. They help ease the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS), but are no substitute for gradual acclimatisation. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a medication option, to be considered only on medical advice before departure.
Guides and agencies
Few trails in Bolivia are waymarked. For the ascent of Huayna Potosí, a guide or specialist agency is essential: the route requires preparation for using crampons and an ice axe. A guide is not compulsory for the Choro Trail or Takesi Trail, but can help with navigation and logistics. In the Salar de Uyuni, a driver-guide is almost essential for safety: mobile coverage is limited, and it is easy to lose your bearings on the salt flat.
Safety
Never hike alone in remote high-mountain areas. Always tell someone close to you and your accommodation where you’re going and when you expect to return. Carry extra water and food, as well as a means of communication, whenever you venture away from populated areas. Bolivia has routes for all levels, from ancient pre-Columbian paths to 6,000-metre summits.
