Full Day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda

The full-day tour to Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda in Bolivia promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the country’s breathtaking landscapes. Departing from La Paz, travelers will embark on a journey filled with awe-inspiring vistas, historic sites, and a serene hike to a stunning emerald-colored lake. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a focus on exploration, this highly-rated tour caters to adventure-seekers seeking to enjoy Bolivia’s natural wonders. What makes this experience truly remarkable, however, is the chance to witness the harmonious coexistence of the region’s rich cultural heritage and its captivating natural beauty.

This experience made our list of the 19 Best Full-Day Tours In La Paz.

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers a private transportation experience to visit Mirador Jilarata, Cementerio de Milluni, and the highlight, a 1-hour hike to the serene Laguna Esmeralda.

• The tour includes breathtaking vistas of Nevado Charquini, Chacaltaya mountain, and Huayna Potosi, as well as the emerald-colored Laguna Esmeralda.

• Participants can expect knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, coffee/tea, snacks, and a provided eco-friendly trekking poles for the hike.

• A moderate fitness level is recommended, and acclimatization to the high altitude in La Paz is advised before the tour.

• The tour is highly rated by 37 reviewers, with an overall 5.0 rating, making it a popular choice for exploring the scenic landscapes around La Paz.

Tour Overview

The Full Day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda offers an immersive exploration of Bolivia’s breathtaking natural landscapes, taking visitors on a journey to iconic landmarks and stunning vistas.

The tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours, including transportation and activities, and departs from central locations in La Paz.

With a private vehicle, travelers will be able to visit the Mirador Jilarata for views of the Nevado Charquini, Chacaltaya mountain, and Huayna Potosi. This is followed by a hike to the Laguna Esmeralda, a stunning emerald-colored lake.

The tour is highly rated, with 37 reviews and an overall 5.0 rating, making it a must-do experience for those seeking to explore Bolivia’s natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

Private transport takes travelers for approximately 2 hours to the first attraction on this tour. Pickup is available from hotels, hostels, or guesthouses in central La Paz, Miraflores, and Sop, with the meeting point at Plaza Mayor de San Francisco in La Paz.

The first stop is the Mirador Jilarata, which offers a 30-minute viewpoint of Nevado Charquini, Chacaltaya mountain, and Huayna Potosí.

Next, visitors explore the Cementerio de Milluni, a historical cemetery significant to Bolivia’s history, for another 30 minutes.

The tour then continues to the highlight, Laguna Esmeralda, where travelers embark on a 1-hour hike to the stunning emerald-colored lagoon, spending an additional hour taking in the scenery and enjoying snacks.

Transportation Details

For this tour, private transport is provided to take travelers from central La Paz, Miraflores, and Sop to the first attraction, which is approximately a 2-hour journey. Pickup is available from hotels, hostels, or guesthouses, with the meeting point at Plaza Mayor de San Francisco in La Paz. The transportation allows for a comfortable and convenient way to reach the various stops along the itinerary.

Transportation Highlights
Private Transport	Pickup Locations	Meeting Point
2-Hour Journey	Central La Paz,	Plaza Mayor de
to First Attraction	Miraflores, Sop	San Francisco

Attractions Visited

Tour participants visit several notable attractions during the full-day excursion, starting with the Mirador Jilarata. This scenic overlook provides breathtaking vistas of the Nevado Charquini, Chacaltaya mountain, and Huayna Potosi.

Travelers then explore the historical Cementerio de Milluni, a significant site in Bolivia’s history, before embarking on a 1-hour hike to the serene Laguna Esmeralda. Here, they can enjoy the stunning emerald-colored lake and its picturesque surroundings while taking a break to refuel with snacks and hot drinks.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, ensuring participants gain a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes various amenities to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience for travelers, such as private transportation, coffee/tea, snacks, and eco-friendly trekking poles. The tour also provides a delicious lunch to fuel the exploration. Plus, all necessary entrance fees are covered, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

Included	Excluded
Private transportation	Gratuities
Coffee/tea	Travel insurance
Snacks	Personal expenses
Eco trekking poles	Additional food/drinks

While the tour is designed for moderate fitness levels, it is important to note that it is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant travelers.

Physical Requirements

A moderate physical fitness level is recommended for participants, as the tour involves a 1-hour hike to reach the Laguna Esmeralda.

It’s not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. The terrain can be challenging, with some steep and uneven sections.

Participants should be prepared for changes in altitude and weather conditions, as the tour takes place at high elevations. It’s advised to acclimatize to the altitude before the hike to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

The tour operator can provide eco trekking poles to assist during the hike. Overall, a reasonable level of physical fitness and preparation is required to fully enjoy this scenic and immersive tour.

Traveler Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive experiences have been reported by travelers who’ve embarked on this tour, with the majority of reviews praising the scenic vistas and knowledgeable guides who provide insights in both Spanish and English.

The tour is described as well-organized with friendly and professional service, allowing participants to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.

While some travelers have experienced altitude sickness, the tour provider recommends acclimatizing to the elevation before the hike for a more enjoyable experience.

Booking and Preparation

To book the Full Day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda, travelers can either contact the tour provider directly or reserve their spot through an online platform.

Upon making the reservation, participants should ensure they meet the physical requirements for the hike, as the tour may not be suitable for those with serious medical conditions or limited mobility.

Plus, it’s recommended that travelers acclimatize to the high altitude in La Paz for a few days before embarking on the tour to minimize the risk of altitude sickness during the excursion.

Following these simple booking and preparation steps will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes snacks and hot drinks, but allowing participants to bring additional provisions can help them feel more comfortable and prepared during the activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company may be able to offer an extended tour duration, but customers should inquire about this option. Additional time and costs would likely be required for any extensions beyond the standard 8-9 hour tour duration.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Children?

There may be discounts available for groups or children on this tour. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about any group rates or child pricing that could apply to their booking. The operator can provide the specific discount information.

How Often Does the Tour Depart and What Is the Schedule?

The tour departs daily according to the information available. The schedule typically involves pickup from central locations in the morning and a return in the late afternoon or evening, though the exact timing may vary.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour operator can likely customize the itinerary to include additional sites, though this may incur an extra charge. Guests should discuss their preferences with the tour operator to see what’s feasible within the tour’s duration and logistics.

Recap

The Full Day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda offers an unforgettable adventure in Bolivia’s stunning landscapes.

Featuring private transportation, breathtaking viewpoints, a historic cemetery, and a scenic hike to the serene Laguna Esmeralda, this highly-rated tour caters to adventure enthusiasts.

With a focus on comfort and exploration, it’s the perfect way to experience Bolivia’s natural beauty and learn from knowledgeable guides.