Salar de Uyuni and South Lipez Adventure

General Description

This region is one of the most spectacular natural attractions of Bolivia. Its isolation has preserved this marvel under an almost unchanged ecology. This is a fascinating area surrounded by deserts and extinct volcanoes in contrast with multicoloured lagoons with rare flamingos, hot springs, fumaroles, geysers, boiling mud pools, steaming streams, wind-eroded rocks ..... James and Chilean flamingos, wild llamas, vicunas and vizcachas are seen much more than human beings in this unspoiled region. The clear air is bitterly cold and night-temperatures can drop below -20 C. At this altitude (above 4000 metres), the purity of the atmosphere and the night-sky lighted with millions of stars is an invitation to the most peaceful dreams.

The Uyuni Salt Desert, an area of aggressive beauty, lies towards the South of the central high-plateau. It is situated in the lowest part of the plateau (3.656 m. above sea level). In the summer the Uyuni Salt marsh is a huge lake half the size of Belgium with a depth of 60 to 80 cm. In the winter the water evaporates, leaving a snowy blanket of salt.

The Laguna Verde a green lake surrounded by volcanoes, and Laguna Colorada, which changes its colour from red to blue back and forth every day, are one of Bolivia's most spectacular and most isolated marvels. The rare James flamingos, along with the more common Chilean and Andean flamingos, breed and live in their waters.

The South Lipez is home of the Chipayas, a forgotten tribe living in isolation whose origins are unknown. They are the oldest and purest living civilization in the Americas and their traditions and costumes have been unaffected by modern ages.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Starting from La Paz we drive towards Oruro, the mining city of Bolivia. Our journey continues towards Lake Popoo and finally finishes at Challapata Village. Simple hotel accommodation (D)

Day 2:
Today we drive through salt deserts towards Jirira village on the foothills of Thunupa Volcano and on the shore of the Uyuni Salt Flat. On the way, visit of Quillacas Sanctuary and the small salt lake known as Garci Mendoza. Lodging in local family houses. (B L)

Day 3:
Today we enjoy a nice trek towards the summit of Thunupa Volcano, offering wonderful views from the summit. Return to Jirira.(B L)

Day 4:
Morning trek (10 km) towards "Lomo de Pescado" Island, lost in the middle of the salt flat and covered with giant cactus. Later on, we continue our trip to San Juan Village where we visit the pre-Columbian tombs. Lodging in basic accommodation (B L)

Day 5:
We drive parallel to the western volcanoes on the border with Chile enjoying spectacular landscapes. We stop to observe the strange "Damas de Piedra" rock formations and to observe pink flamingos feeding in high altitude volcanic water lagoons. Overnight in Camp (B L D)

Day 6:
In the morning we have a bath in the hot springs located below a beautiful volcano overlooking a frozen lagoon (see picture on top of the page!). We then reach the place called Sol de Manana to observe thick fumaroles and geysers. Later on, we arrive to Laguna Colorada an then to Laguna Verde on the foothills of Llicancabur Volcano (5800 m) on the border with Chile. We continue afterwards to Quetena Village. Overnight in Camp (B L D)

Day 7:
We spend the day climbing the Uturuncu Volcano (6000 metres), an easy climb with no glaciers. We continue afterwards to Mallku Village. Overnight in Camp (B L D)

Day 8:
A 5 hour drive takes us back to Uyuni. Overnight in Pampa Colorada Hotel (B L)

Day 9:
Overland drive to Potosi through the stupendous Andean Range, crossing Indian villages and mining areas. Potosi is the highest city of the world (4200 metres) and is doted with an exceptional historical heritage. In the afternoon, visit of the rich colonial centre of Potosi. Overnight in hotel. (B L)

Day 10:
An unforgettable visit to the Cerro Rico overlooking the city. The silver mine of the Cerro consecrated Potosi as the richest city on Earth during the Spanish Colonisation. Nowadays, the silver has gone but mining activities still go on. Miners excavate in terrible conditions the Cerro in search for lead, mercury and other mineral. In the afternoon, visit of the Casa de la Moneda and drive to Sucre, the official and constitutional Capital of Bolivia. Overnight in hotel. (B).

Day 11:
Visit of Sucre, classified as "World Heritage Sites" by the Unesco for its colonial architecture. Overnight in hotel. (B).

Day 12:
Transfer to the airport for your flight out or continuation of your holidays in Bolivia. (B).

General Information and Price

Rated: Moderate

Accommodation at selected economic class hotel (with private facilities in town only). Superior and deluxe class available upon request.

Tour Tariff - Private Departures
N° of Participants	2	3	4
USD	$ 1680	$ 1425	$ 1275
EUR	€ 1394	€ 1182	€ 1058
GBP	£ 940	£ 798	£ 714

(*) Price last updated on 06 April 2005. Current price may vary due to elements out of our control, so please always check by sending us a
quotation request
(**) Discount for larger groups



Included in price:
Lodging in hotel in double room with private facilities in town, in shared accomodation in basic hostels (without private facilities) or in Camp out of the beaten tracks, transport and transfers, bilingual experienced guides, meals as specified, camping equipment

Not included:
Meals not stated in itinerary, items of personal nature, domestic flights, sleeping bag, tips, beverages.