Tours Culture & history Guided tours Landmarks & monuments Neighborhood tours Day Trips From Factory & workshop tours Day trips Archaeology Sightseeing Architecture Religious & spiritual activities Museums & exhibitions Private tours UNESCO sites Churches & cathedrals Educational activities

Discover Potosí on a full-day tour of the Cerro Rico mines and the city. Explore the mines, visit the Casa de la Moneda, and admire the San Lorenzo Church.

Highlights

• Journey into the depths of Cerro Rico, the mountain that shaped Potosí’s destiny
• Visit the local miner’s market and buy gifts for the miners as a gesture of appreciation
• Explore the Casa de la Moneda, Bolivia’s most important museum
• Admire the intricate mestizo-Baroque façade of the San Lorenzo Church
• Climb to the rooftop of the Convent of San Francisco for panoramic views

Description

Begin your day with a sobering yet enlightening journey into the depths of Cerro Rico, the mountain that shaped Potosí’s destiny. Known as the 'Mountain that Eats Men,' this iconic site was once the world’s largest silver deposit, bankrolling the Spanish crown for centuries. Today, miners still extract minerals under harsh conditions, preserving centuries-old traditions. Before entering the mines, stop at a market to buy gifts for the miners, such as coca leaves, dynamite (optional), or soft drinks—a gesture of appreciation for their hospitality. Equipped with helmets, headlamps, and protective clothing, your guide (often a former miner) will explain safety protocols and mining techniques. Venture into narrow, dimly lit tunnels, witnessing firsthand the challenging conditions miners endure. Meet workers, learn about their daily struggles, and hear stories of Pachamama (Mother Earth) rituals for protection. Encounter the eerie yet revered statue of El Tío, the devil-like deity miners believe controls the mountain’s bounty. After lunch (not included), shift focus to Potosí’s opulent colonial past with a guided walk through its grand plazas, churches, and museums. Once one of the wealthiest cities in the world, Potosí’s architecture reflects its golden age, blending Baroque and Indigenous influences. Explore Bolivia’s most important museum, where silver was minted into coins for the Spanish Empire. See original machinery, colonial art, and learn about the mint’s dark history of forced labor. Admire the intricate mestizo-Baroque façade, a masterpiece of Indigenous stonework blending Christian and Andean symbolism. Visit the heart of Potosí, surrounded by ornate buildings like the Cathedral and City Hall. Climb to the rooftop of the Convent of San Francisco for panoramic views of Cerro Rico and the city. Learn about the convent’s role in Potosí’s social history. Visit artisans crafting traditional Potosí silverware or sample salteñas (Bolivian pastries) at a bustling market.

Includes

Cerro Rico Mine Tour Potosí City Tour Local Miner’s Market Visit Safety Gear & Briefing Underground Exploration El Tío Shrine Casa de la Moneda (National Mint) San Lorenzo Church Plaza 10 de Noviembre Convent of San Francisco Local Markets & Workshops

Important Information

• This tour involves physical exertion (crawling, climbing, and walking on uneven terrain). Not recommended for claustrophobic visitors or those with respiratory issues due to dust and altitude (Potosí sits at 4,090m / 13,420ft). A portion of your tour fee supports local mining communities.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund