Best of Bolivia in 2 Weeks
Vertigo and claustrophobia are unwelcome conditions in a country where altitude is measured in gasps of air and your bus seat might be a stranger's lap. Fear of flying will disappear once you experience the kamikaze road network of potholes and deep ravines. Indeed, it's best to fly to get the most from your time here, but make sure you always reconfirm your confirmation.
Days 1-2: Arrive in La Paz -- Soak up the atmosphere (and frequent rain showers) of a bustling market city lost in time. Mingle with the throngs of Indians in bowler hats and petticoats as you browse for something exotic at the witch doctors' market. Next, stop off at the Museo de la Coca and chew the infamous cud. Stay at the well-located El Rey Palace Hotel, but dine at the Hotel Presidente; its restaurant, La Bella Vista, has a bird's-eye view of this chaotic city. The next day explore the historical Plaza Murillo and the fascinating textile exhibit at the Museo Nacional de Etnografia y Folklore. Catch some live music and dance at a peña such as Casa de Corregidor.
Day 3: A Daredevil Mountain Ride -- Bike down the most dangerous road in the world from La Paz to Coroico, or if that's too dramatic, just watch the beautiful scenery from the security of a tour bus (not much safer, in fact).
Day 4: Tiwanaku -- This pre-Inca city of monoliths and underground temples is a day trip from La Paz and well worth the journey.
Day 5: Copacabana and Lake Titicaca -- Take a taxi to the highest navigable lake in the world. Relax on Bolivia's only beach before visiting Copacabana Cathedral. Here you can see a colorful procession of new cars, trucks, and buses getting blessed with beer and holy water (weekends only). Lunch on fresh trout at La Orilla before taking a gentle hike to the Inca ruins of Asiento del Inca. Relax in a hammock at the artfully laid-back Hostal la Cupola.
Days 6-7: Empire of the Sun -- Catch a ferry to Isla del Sol, the dazzling birthplace of the Inca gods, staying 2 nights at Posada del Inca. Dip into the gentle rhythm of island life, exploring the many ruins and enjoying the spectacular sunsets.
Days 8-10: Cochabamba -- Drag yourself from your island hideaway and take a taxi back to La Paz, where you can catch a plane to Cochabamba. Stay at the lovely Hacienda de Kaluyo. When you tire of enjoying this splendid resort, take a taxi to see the biggest Jesus in the world, followed by a tour of a tin magnate's palace, Palacio Portales.
Days 11-13: Santa Cruz de la Sierra -- Leave the Andes behind and descend into Bolivia's brand of brash tropicalismo. Stay at the very comfortable Hotel Los Tajibos, but get out and explore the city's hinterland of Inca ruins, Jesuit missions, and subtropical woodlands. Bird-watching in Amboro National Park is highly recommended.
Day 14: Return to La Paz -- Enjoy your final day shopping for genuine handicrafts at bargain prices on Calle Sagárnaga. Have lunch at the colonial-style Surucachi restaurant before catching a flight from La Paz airport.
