Exploration of La Paz and Tiwanaku From Puno (Full Day)

Uncover the rich cultural tapestry of Bolivia on a full-day exploration from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku. Explore the vibrant colonial architecture and hidden gems of La Paz, from the Neoclassical Cathedral to the bustling Witches Market. Then, journey to the ancient archaeological site of Tiwanaku, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, where you’ll marvel at the Kalasasaya temple and Sun Gate. This immersive experience promises to unveil the captivating history and stunning landscapes that make Bolivia a truly unique destination. Discover why this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the heart of South American culture.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Puno to La Paz, Bolivia, including guided exploration of the colonial quarter, key landmarks, and the ancient Tiwanaku archaeological site.
• Tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, bilingual guide, and travel insurance, but excludes entrance fees and extra expenses.
• Itinerary covers a 4-hour journey to the Peru-Bolivia border, free time for lunch and visits in La Paz, and return to Puno by 2-3 PM.
• Tour not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or health conditions due to extensive walking and high-altitude exposure.
• Participants must have a valid passport or ID card, and are advised to bring recommended items such as sunglasses, sun hat, and camera.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Offering a full-day exploration from Puno to La Paz via the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku, this tour is priced from $490.00 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, the tour also provides a reserve now & pay later option.

Covering the journey to the border between Peru and Bolivia, a 4-hour trip to La Paz, and a guided tour of the city’s highlights, the tour package includes hotel pick-up, transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and travel insurance.

However, entrance fees and extra expenses are excluded from the price.

Suitable for most participants, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments, visual impairments, or medical conditions.

Itinerary Details

The day begins with an early morning pick-up around 4:00 am, followed by a 4-hour journey to the border between Peru and Bolivia at Desaguadero.

After crossing the border, the tour continues with a guided exploration of La Paz, highlighting the colonial quarter, Avenida 16 de Julio, and the Neoclassical Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in Murillo Square.

Next, the itinerary includes:

1. Free time for lunch

2. A visit to the Santo Domingo Convent and the Witches Market

3. A bus trip to the Tiwanaku archaeological site to tour highlights like the Kalasasaya temple, Akapana pyramid, and Sun Gate.

The tour then returns to Puno, arriving between 2:00 and 3:00 PM.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation by bus or minibus, and an English and Spanish-speaking guide. Meals and travel insurance are also provided. However, entrance fees and any extra expenses are not included in the price. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included and excluded:

Inclusions	Exclusions
Hotel pick-up	Entrance fees
Transportation	Extra expenses
English & Spanish guide
Meals
Travel insurance

The tour provides a comprehensive package, covering the key aspects of the journey, while allowing participants to manage their own additional costs. This ensures a well-rounded experience within the stated price.

Participant Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for certain participants. Specifically, it isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, those with pre-existing medical conditions, or participants over the age of 95.

The tour involves extensive walking, navigating uneven terrain, and exposure to high altitudes, which could pose challenges for those with physical limitations or health concerns. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, the tour operator has set these restrictions in place.

Key considerations for potential participants include:

1. Physical mobility and ability to navigate uneven surfaces.

2. Tolerance for high-altitude environments.

3. Overall health and medical conditions.

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Important Information

Travelers must bring their passport or ID card on this tour. Participants should also pack sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and sunscreen.

Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour. Ensuring the correct contact number with country code for WhatsApp is essential, as the tour operator may need to reach participants for last-minute updates or changes.

Travelers are advised to check availability via email before booking, especially for last-minute reservations. This full-day exploration from Puno to La Paz via Tiwanaku requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Following the tour guidelines and being prepared can help participants make the most of this exciting adventure.

Border Crossing and Transportation

Early in the morning, participants depart Puno and make the 4-hour journey across the border into Bolivia at Desaguadero. The crossing is straightforward, with travelers passing through both Peruvian and Bolivian immigration checkpoints.

Once in Bolivia, the tour continues by bus or minibus to La Paz. The journey offers stunning views of the Andean landscape.

Upon arrival in La Paz, the group embarks on a guided tour of the city’s highlights, including:

1. The colonial quarter

2. Avenida 16 de Julio and Avenida Mariscal Gamaara

3. The Neoclassical Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in Murillo Square

This seamless border crossing and transportation set the stage for a comprehensive exploration of La Paz and the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku.

Guided Tour of La Paz

The guided tour of La Paz showcases the city’s colonial heritage and modern vibrancy, starting with a visit to the Neoclassical Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in the heart of Murillo Square. Guests will then explore the iconic Avenida 16 de Julio and Avenida Mariscal Gámarra, taking in the bustling energy of this high-altitude metropolis. The tour also includes a stop at the Santo Domingo Convent and the lively Witches Market, where visitors can browse an array of traditional medicinal herbs and crafts.

Highlights of La Paz Tour
Neoclassical Cathedral	Murillo Square
Avenida 16 de Julio	Bustling Avenues
Santo Domingo Convent	Witches Market
Avenida Mariscal Gámarra	Traditional Crafts
Vibrant City Atmosphere	Colonial Heritage

Exploration of Tiwanaku Site

From the bustling streets of La Paz, the tour transports visitors to the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku, an archaeological wonder that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bolivia.

At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors will explore the highlights of the ruins, including:

1. The Kalasasaya temple, a raised platform with massive stone monoliths.

2. The Akapana pyramid, an intriguing stepped pyramid structure.

3. The Sun Gate, a magnificent stone archway believed to have had astronomical significance.

The tour also includes the opportunity to see intricate queros (ceremonial drinking vessels) and huaco-portraits, providing a deeper understanding of the Tiwanaku civilization’s artistic and technological accomplishments.

This immersive experience transports visitors back in time, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for Bolivia’s ancient wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Vegetarian Meal Option Available?

Yes, the tour includes meals, and vegetarian options are available. Travelers with dietary requirements can notify the tour operator in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Can I Bring a Small Carry-On Bag on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring a small carry-on bag on the tour. The tour provider allows participants to bring personal belongings like a day pack or small suitcase as long as it doesn’t interfere with the group’s mobility.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Any Other Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in both English and Spanish. Participants can communicate with the guide in either language throughout the day-long excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Students can receive a 10% discount with valid student ID, and seniors aged 65+ can get a 5% discount. These discounted rates are available at the time of booking.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring La Paz on My Own?

The tour provides around 2-3 hours of free time in La Paz, allowing you to explore the city’s colonial quarter, Avenida 16 de Julio, and Avenida Mariscal Gamaara at your own pace before continuing on to the Tiwanaku archaeological site.

Recap

This full-day exploration from Puno offers a captivating immersion in Bolivia’s cultural heritage.

Visitors will discover the vibrant city of La Paz, marvel at the ancient wonders of Tiwanaku, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.

With an expert guide, travelers can make the most of this opportunity to uncover the unique charms of this remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: