Active Adventure in Bolivia - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Welcome to Bolivia! You’ll arrive in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a city of 1.5 million inhabitants. Considered Bolivia's commercial center, it's located at a staggering 1,312 feet (400 meters) above sea level. You can relax at the hotel and go for a dip in the pool before embarking on a guided city tour in the afternoon. You'll learn about how the city was founded by the Spanish in the 16th century and visit Plaza 24 de Septiembre, the central square, home to the stately Metropolitan Cathedral. 

Day 2: Go on an Architecture Tour in Cochabamba

This morning, a driver will pick you up and take you to the airport for a short flight to Cochabamba. In the afternoon, you will head off on a guided architecture tour to visit the Plaza 14 de Septiembre, a leafy plaza commemorating Cochabamba's independence from colonial rule. You'll also visit Cochabamba's own Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian and the Portales Palace. The palace, which dates back to the 1920s, features a design inspired by the Vatican City and gardens inspired by the palace gardens at Versailles. In the evening, head out to a local restaurant to try a few Bolivian dishes.

Day 3: Enjoy a Caving Excursion

Leave Cochabamba this morning for an expedition to Torotoro National Park, a must-see destination for adventure lovers and natural history enthusiasts. On the four-hour journey to the park, you'll be able to see incredible landscapes outside your window, from high desert plateaus to green riverways. When you reach the small town of Torotoro, you'll check in to the hotel and have lunch. Then you will set off to visit the Umajalanta Cavern, a long, deep cave featuring stalagmite and stalactite rock formations and several waterfalls.

This outing is suited to adventurous travelers—be prepared to get wet and dirty as you crawl through dark and narrow spaces! A helmet and headlamp will be provided for you. Alternate activities may be arranged for those who prefer not to go caving.

Day 4: Explore Torotoro National Park

You will spend all day hiking through Torotoro's vibrantly hued mountains, underground tunnels, and the impressive Torotoro Canyon. At the bottom of the canyon, you'll find a lagoon that's perfect for a midday dip. Closer to the village, you will walk alongside large, well-preserved dinosaur footprints. After you're finished exploring, return to your hotel to relax.

Day 5: Hike to El Vergel Canyon

Today is your last day in Torotoro National Park. You'll enjoy a half-day hike, descending more than 100 steps to the bottom of El Vergel Canyon, where you'll be rewarded with lush greenery, local wildlife, small waterfalls, and cool temperatures. You may spot more dinosaur prints here, too. After your hike, you'll have lunch in Torotoro before a driver picks you up and drives you back to Cochabamba for the night.

Day 6: Discover La Paz on a Walking Tour

Make your way to the airport this morning to board your short flight to La Paz. A local guide will meet you at the airport in La Paz to take you on a tour around the city. You will visit the famous Witches Market, where you can purchase medicinal herbs, and stop at the San Francisco Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the city. You’ll see the main square, Plaza Murillo, continuing onward to the southern neighborhoods and a fascinating geological anomaly called Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) because of its bizarre, moon-like surface. End with a cable car ride, taking in panoramic views of La Paz. 

Day 7: Depart Bolivia 

It's time to say goodbye to Bolivia! A driver will pick you up at your hotel after breakfast and make sure you get to the airport on time for your international flight back home. Safe travels!

More Great 7-Day Bolivia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Bolivia? Check out these other 7-day Bolivia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.