From Puno: Tour to La Paz, Uyuni Salt Flat & Aymara Route
Macrodistrito Centro, Bolivia
Embark on a 3-day journey from Puno to explore La Paz, marvel in the world's largest salt flat, Uyuni and discover the enigmatic Aymara Route. Guide for the entire excursion. lunch on the second day.
Overview
This 3-day guided tour from Puno explores Bolivia's La Paz, the Uyuni Salt Flat, and Peru’s Aymara Route, suitable for travelers interested in culture, history, and natural landscapes.
Highlights
- Explore La Paz’s cable car system and colonial landmarks
- Discover the vast Uyuni Salt Flat and surrounding attractions
- Enjoy a traditional regional lunch in the salt desert
- Learn about the history and culture of the Aymara Route
- Tour accompanied by a professional Tourist Guide
Description
Start your tour with a 9 am hotel pickup in Puno, crossing into Bolivia. Arrive in La Paz around 3 pm after a lunch stop (own expense). Take a guided tour of La Paz’s cable car system and colonial quarter including the Church of San Francisco, Murillo Square, Our Lady of La Paz Cathedral, and the Legislative and Government Palace. After dinner on your own, board an overnight bus to Uyuni.
Day two begins with an early arrival in Uyuni. Have breakfast at a local restaurant before boarding a 4x4 SUV for the Uyuni Salt Flat excursion. Visit the Uyuni Train Cemetery and Colchani town to learn about salt extraction and see Playa Blanca Hotel’s salt infrastructure. Enjoy a traditional regional lunch, then explore Incahuasi Island with its giant cacti. Return to Uyuni town for dinner and shopping before catching the overnight bus back to La Paz.
On day three, arrive in La Paz at 5 am and transfer to Desaguadero to cross back into Peru. After breakfast (own expense), begin the Aymara Route starting at Pomata with a visit to the colonial Santiago Apostol Church. Continue to Juli, known as Little Rome, visiting either the Church of San Juan de Letrán or Our Lady of the Assumption depending on availability.
Next, visit the Portal of Aramu Muro (“Door of the Gods”), a rock-carved site associated with local myths and spiritual experiences. Then explore the archaeological site of Molloko, a funerary center showing a fusion of Inca and Lupaka cultures. Conclude with a visit to Chucuito’s main square featuring the Solar Clock, Church of La Asunción, Missionary Cross, and Inkauyo Temple of Inca Fertility. Return to Puno, arriving at your hotel around 2 pm.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Puno
- Private transport between Puno, La Paz, and back
- Shared overnight bus tickets La Paz – Uyuni – La Paz
- Uyuni Salt Flat excursion by 4x4 SUV
- English and Spanish-speaking guide
- Lunch on the second day in Uyuni
- Entry tickets to included sites
Excludes
- Breakfast and dinner throughout the tour
- Lunch on the first and third days
- Pillows and personal items
- Gratuities
Important Information
- Guides speak English and Spanish; sometimes both languages are used during the tour
- La Paz to Uyuni transfers are by shared sleeper bus
- Transportation on the Salar is shared 4x4 SUVs seating 6 to 8 passengers
- Passengers must respect assigned seating; extra space requires coordination and additional payment
- Children under 5 travel free on an adult’s lap but without separate services; parents assume all responsibility and costs
- Entry to churches and cathedrals depends on availability
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and warm layers. Book in advance, especially during the dry season from May to October.
