Potosí: Cerro Rico Mine and City Tour Guided Combo
Oropeza Province, Bolivia
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.
Experience a guided tour of Cerro Rico and Potosí’s historic sites, ideal for active travelers interested in mining heritage and colonial history.
Begin with a guided descent into Cerro Rico, the mountain that shaped Potosí’s economy through silver mining. Miners still work under challenging conditions, preserving centuries-old techniques. Before entering the mine, visit a local market to purchase gifts for the miners, such as coca leaves or soft drinks, as a traditional sign of respect.
Equipped with safety gear, follow your guide—often a former miner—through narrow, dimly lit tunnels. Learn about mining practices, daily miner life, and Pachamama rituals. Observe the El Tío shrine, a deity believed to govern the mountain’s wealth.
After the underground tour, explore Potosí’s colonial heritage on a walking tour covering historic plazas, churches, and museums. Visit the Casa de la Moneda, Bolivia’s National Mint, to see original equipment and learn about its history of silver production and forced labor.
Admire the mestizo-Baroque façade of San Lorenzo Church, notable for its fusion of Indigenous and Christian symbolism. Walk through Plaza 10 de Noviembre and climb to the Convent of San Francisco rooftop to view both the city and Cerro Rico. Discover local artisans crafting traditional silverware and sample regional pastries like salteñas at nearby markets.
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
Excludes
- Lunch
Important Information
- The tour requires physical effort including crawling, climbing, and walking on uneven terrain.
- Not recommended for individuals with claustrophobia or respiratory issues due to dust and high altitude (Potosí is at 4,090m / 13,420ft).
- A portion of the tour fee supports local mining communities.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
For the best experience, wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring water. Morning departures are recommended to avoid afternoon weather changes in Potosí.
