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Peru and Bolivia
Two nations sitting at high altitudes and steeped in rich Andean history, Peru and Bolivia are the perfect duo of destinations for anyone seeking a genuine South American experience. The great Lake Titicaca lies on their mutual border at an elevation of 3,800m, but the world’s highest navigable body of water isn't all that they share. Parallels can be seen between the customs and ancestral outfits of their indigenous peoples, who still adhere to ancient traditions that predate the arrival of the Spanish during the 16th Century. Echoes of Spanish colonialism also resonate through the cities of both Peru and Bolivia.
The ancient history of both nations is still there to be experienced at sites like the world-renowned Machu Picchu as well as more humble remnants such as Isla del Sol’s tumbling stone buildings. Both countries boast natural beauty in abundance - Peru through locations like the untamed wilderness of the Amazon jungle and the frosted peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and Bolivia through the surreal crystalised expanse of the Uyuni salt flats and rainbow of placid high altitude lakes in the southwest. Each of Peru and Bolivia’s main sights are well worth visiting in their own right, but combining the two into a single trip not only allows one to experience the greatest locations from each country, it also gives travellers the opportunity to appreciate the nuances that make these two Andean nations unique.
Group Tours of Peru and Bolivia
Andes & Coastal Highlights
Duration:21 Days
Route:Lima to Santiago
Tour Code:HAC
South America Express
Duration:26 Days
Route:lima to Rio de Janeiro
Tour Code:HSE
Best time to travel to Peru and Bolivia
The most popular time of the year to visit these two nations is between May and September, when temperatures are at their lowest but there is little to no rainfall. Due to there being less cloud cover, visibility is best during these months, making it a very popular time to visit Machu Picchu.
The wet season falls between November and March, which can make hiking that bit tougher (and wetter!) but smaller crowds add to the appeal of visiting at this time. During the month of February the Inca Trail is closed for safety reasons and is repaired for trekkers visiting during the following season. Machu Picchu is still open to those travelling there by train however.
Conditions during the shoulder season months of April and October are unpredictable, with downpours one day and clear skies the next. Therefore visiting during these months can prove risky but again, crowds will be somewhat thinner.
It is also important to note the varying conditions between Peru and Bolivia’s different regions. The Amazonian regions see rainfall of varying degrees throughout the year, whilst parts of Peru’s desertous southern region see next to no annual rainfall. Research the conditions in the regions that you are looking to visit - its important to pack appropriately for a region that sees such a broad variety of climates.
Top Tip
The Uyuni Salt Flats can get very cold and the accommodation here tends to be very basic with limited facilities. Remember to pack layers if you’re visiting Bolivia on a tour!
Main sights in Bolivia
Uyuni Salt Flats
Lap Paz
Lagoons of Bolivian Altiplano
Torotoro National Park
Cordillera Real
(Valley of the Moon)
Potosi
Cusco and La Paz - High altitude havens
Neither of these cities located in the Andean heights of their respective nations are their country’s official capital but when travelling in Peru and Bolivia, you can be sure that these are the two cities that you will hear mentioned most by fellow travellers. Both are perched over 3,000 metres above sea level, surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery and harbour an energetic buzz of excitement.
Cusco
Elevation:3,399m
Population:420,000
Founded:1100
Key Sights:
Qurikancha, Plaza de Armas, Saksayhuaman, San Pedro Market, San Blas
La Paz
Elevation:3,640m
Population:780,000
Founded:1548
Key Sights:
The Witches Market, San Francisco Cathedral, Presidential Palace, San Pedro Prison
Tailor-made Tours to Peru and Bolivia
Anyone looking to tour Peru and Bolivia with a personalised touch should browse our Tailor-made tours to the region. These tours act as itinerary ideas that can be adjusted to meet the needs of any traveller wishing to experience Peru and Bolivia on their own unique trip. Contact our Tailor-made Team to enquire about how we can create the perfect private tour for you.
Highlights of South America
Duration:15 Days
Route:Lima to Rio de Janeiro
Tour Code:TSHSA
Indigenous people
One of the most alluring features of Peru and Bolivia are their welcoming citizens. Much of each nation’s population is made up of a large proportion of indigenous people, whose families have lived in the region since before records began. Statistics suggest that roughly 60% of Bolivia’s population is made up of inidigenous people, whilst in Peru they make up just under half of the population. Not only are these communities extremely welcoming to those exploring their country but they still adhere to customs that offer a window in the region’s exotic history.
The vibrant rainbow of colours in each and every traditional outfit reflects the rich and varied history that each of these communities has experienced in order to retain such an incredible connection with their homeland for thousands of years. Travelling through Peru and Bolivia you will discover the cultural nuances that differentiate each group from another. Travellers are sure to come across communities such as direct descendants of the Incas themselves in the form of the Quechua, or Aymaran ladies wearing pristine bowler hats in Bolivia - a lasting echo of the old European influences still present in South America. The Witches Market in La Paz presents an ideal opportunity for travellers to gain an impression of the eccentric traditions that are still vital in modern day Bolivia, most notably the llama foetuses that are buried under homes for good luck. The hundreds of different cultures are sure to enthrall visitors, whether they have a casual interest or a keen passion for anthropology.
The array of indigenous peoples thriving in this region of the Andes is one of the area’s primary draws. It is a true cultural melting pot waiting to be discovered and most locals are only too happy to share their stories with you, such is their pride in the magnificent history of their people - and rightfully so!
Peru and Bolivia Blogs
Bolivia: the ultimate cultural adventure
Nestled in the dramatic Andes mountains is Bolivia, one of South America’s poorest but also most fascinating countries to travel. From the magnificent Salar de Uyuni salt flats, to La Paz, one of the highest cities in the world, Bolivia is a real assault on the senses. Life in Bolivia is different in so many ways and at times it can be an adventure like no other– a simple 2 hour bus journey may end up taking an entire day (usually due to a DYI road blockade), but you will never be bored and you will leave with endless memories.
What you should know before travelling to Lake Titicaca
The Inca believed Lake Titicaca to be the birthplace of the sun. When you look at the stunning scenery of the lake, it is easy to understand why. We have compiled some of the answers for frequently asked questions when planning a trip to Lake Titicaca.
How big is Lake Titicaca?
At over 8000 square kilometers Lake Titicaca is the largest lake in South America and, at an altitude in excess of 3,800 metres, the highest navigable lake in the world.
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