The warmth and more humid air are immediately noticeable for travellers arriving from the highlands. No fixed activities are needed on the first afternoon. A short walk around the central square gives a first impression of Bolivia’s largest lowland city, but the real contrast comes the next day when the journey leaves the city and begins to climb towards Samaipata.

At El Fuerte de Samaipata, a large worked rock and remains from several cultural periods occupy a prominent site above the valleys. The guide explains what is known about the site’s religious and administrative functions without filling the gaps with speculation. After the visit, continue to Samaipata, a small town with a relaxed rhythm and cooler evening temperatures.

A nature excursion may head towards the forests of the Amboró region or viewpoints where condors are sometimes seen. A slower alternative combines the town, surrounding landscape and a local vineyard. Roads into some natural areas require a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a local guide. The day’s walk or excursion is selected according to the season and preferred level of fitness.

The journey returns through the lowlands towards Santa Cruz. A stop can be added along the way if the flight schedule allows, but traffic approaching the city can be slow and connections are therefore planned with plenty of time.

The transfer goes to the airport for the flight to Sucre. After landing, a transfer continues to the accommodation.

A transfer from the airport takes you to a hotel in or near the historic centre. Sucre is still at considerable altitude, but the climate is milder than in La Paz and Potosí.

Casa de la Libertad, the churches and the old university quarter provide the historical framework. The visit continues to Recoleta or a market, where daily life becomes more visible. A textile museum can be added for travellers interested in the weaving traditions and symbolism of the surrounding region. The pace is comfortable and much of the day can be explored on foot.

The journey then continues to the airport, Potosí or another destination. Winding roads through southern Bolivia often take longer than the map suggests, so transfers allow extra time and regular stops.

The journey continues through the Bolivian highlands towards Uyuni. This section can be travelled by road or combined with a flight, depending on dates and available connections.

After a briefing in Uyuni, luggage is loaded into a four-wheel-drive vehicle and the journey heads out towards the salt flat. Within the first few hours the landscape opens out and distance takes on an entirely different scale. Roads and buildings disappear and the horizon becomes almost unbroken.

Volcanoes are scattered across the horizon and the colours of the lagoons shift with their mineral and algae content and with the light. Flamingos are often seen in the right season, but vehicles and visitors keep their distance to avoid disturbing the birds.

This is a long day and much of the route is at high altitude. Regular stops are needed both to experience the landscape and to allow the body time to adjust. Accommodation in the evening is simple but warm and functional.

The route then continues between Laguna Colorada, desert formations, hot springs and other sites that are open and safe that day. Wind and cold make short walks more demanding than they appear on the map. The final part of the route is adapted according to whether the journey returns to Uyuni or continues towards Chile.

The journey then continues towards Uyuni or the Chilean border. Travellers continuing to San Pedro de Atacama normally change vehicles at the border.

The transfer goes to the airport for the flight to La Paz. After landing, a transfer continues to the accommodation.

The transfer follows the road down through the immense valley towards the hotel. Altitude is the first practical factor to take into account. Rest, water and perhaps a short walk near the hotel are enough after arrival if you feel well.

The older quarters contain markets, churches and narrow streets, while the cable car carries you above the rooftops towards higher neighbourhoods and El Alto. The view makes the city’s geography understandable in a way no map can.

At street level, the guide provides context for modern Bolivia, Aymara culture, migration and everyday life. If weather and energy permit, a short visit to Valle de la Luna or another viewpoint can be added. The pace remains unhurried with regular breaks.

With a later departure there may be time for a museum, handicrafts or a short walk. Traffic in La Paz and El Alto can be unpredictable, so departure is planned with plenty of time before a flight or a longer road journey.

From the hotel in La Paz, a transfer goes to the airport for the journey home to Scandinavia. Exact flight times and connections are shown in the final itinerary.

Arrival in Scandinavia after the overnight flight.