Explore Bolivia to Brazil

Intrepid Travel · 31 days

4.3

2 Reviews

View Map

Duration

31 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore South America on this 31-day tour.

Highlights

Take a unique route from La Paz to Rio de Janeiro, stopping at tiny villages and indigenous towns along the way to get an authentic view of South America.
Hit the off-road on a two-day 4WD adventure across the largest salt flats in the world – Uyuni – exploring cactus islands, train cemeteries and mineral lakes teeming with flamingos.
Harness your inner gaucho during a three-day stay at an estancia in Uruguay. Ride horses relax in nature or get involved with activties – it’s up to you.
The mighty Iguazu Falls straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil, and this tour includes a visit to both sides for a complete experience.
Spend a day in Tilcara, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Argentina that is surrounded by steep and spectacular gorges and mountains.

Trip Details

Duration

31 days

Transportation

4x4,Boat,Bus,Coach,Ferry,Minibus,Overnight bus,Plane,Private vehicle,Public bus,Taxi,Van

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

La Paz, Argentina

Finishes

Rio de Janeiro, Argentina

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: La Paz

Welcome to Bolivia! Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, feel free to explore the side streets of La Paz, or alternatively, venture out of the city in search of crisp mountain air. You could hop on a local bus out to the extraordinary landscape of Moon Valley – this maze of canyons and colossal clay spires, make for staggering views. Alternatively, why not take a cable car to the Mercado de Hechiceria (Witches Market)? Though we can’t guarantee the potions, incantations and voodoo dolls will work their magic, the experience is fascinating, and the locals will be happy to tell you about their significance. After your meeting this evening, you might like to head out with your new travel buddies for a group dinner.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: La Paz

Today, you’re free to discover La Paz at your own pace. Perhaps visit the Museo de la Coca, which isn’t too far from your hotel. This unusual museum delves into the history of the coca plant that grows in the region – a plant that’s played a huge role in the rise and fall of governments, and was one of the original ingredients in one of the world’s favourite soft drinks. You may also like to check out the cuisine scene in La Paz on a food tour – taste fish fresh from Lake Titicaca as well as a variety of intense flavours on a chocolate stop. Late in the afternoon, leave La Paz on an overnight bus to Sucre (approximately 11 to12 hours).

Optional Activities:

La Paz - Visit to the 'Witches Market' - Free
La Paz - Coca Museum (15 BOB)
La Paz - Tiawanaku Tour (50 USD)
La Paz City Tour & Moon Valley (40 USD)

Accommodation:

Overnight Bus (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Sucre

On arrival in Sucre, drop off your luggage at the hotel before heading out to explore in your own time. Bolivia’s World Heritage-listed capital is a hub of local cultures and Spanish colonial architecture. You might like to visit the Museo de la Recoleta – a 400-year-old convent which provides great views over the city and is home to a fascinating collection of sculptures and paintings. If you have time, head to the Plaza 25 de Mayo to rub shoulders with Sucre's affluent residents and check out the extravagant interior of the Senora de la Merced.

Optional Activities:

Museo de la Recoleta (15 BOB)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Sucre

Enjoy another free day to see the sights of Sucre. Resting in a mountainous valley and overflowing with white-washed buildings and well-preserved architecture, Sucre is not only Bolivia’s official capital city, but also the most beautiful. Wander the pretty streets and snap photos of the quaint houses and medieval churches, or for something more active, hike along the pre-Inca path known as the Chataquila trek – which is mostly downhill and offers stunning views of the surrounding Andes. For something completely different, discover a prehistoric landscape and compare shoe sizes with a dinosaur at Cal Orcko, where footprints millions of years old have been preserved. This is the largest collection of dinosaur footprints in the world, with over 12,000 of them. There’s also a food culture in Sucre, so enjoy some delicious empanadas at a restaurant or a fresh juice at the Central Market.

Optional Activities:

Sucre - Dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko (Admission Fee) (70 BOB)
Sucre - Casa de la Libertad (30 BOB)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Potosi

This morning, take a local bus to the colonial mining town of Potosi (approximately 3–4 hours) – once the wealthiest city in the Americas thanks to its location at the base of silver ore-rich Cerro Rico (Rich Hill). The discovery and extraction of the silver led to a financial boom for the Spanish empire; however, the city’s riches quickly diminished and its citizens soon slipped into poverty once the silver dried up. A tour and brief history of Cerro Rico is definitely a highlight to consider here. Another place of interest is the Santa Teresa Convent Museum, where you can observe the art and treasures on display inside the convent’s original walls.

Optional Activities:

Potosi - Santa Teresa Convent Museum (33 BOB)
Potosi - National Mint of Bolivia (60 BOB)
Potosi - Cerro Rico mine tour (150 BOB)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Uyuni

Today, leave Potosi behind and travel to the city of Uyuni (driving time approximately 3–4 hours). This remote town sits on the edge of the high Altiplano – a wilderness area extending for hundreds of kilometres towards the border with Argentina and Chile. Apart from being a gateway to the Salt Flats, Uyuni also happens to sit above the world’s largest lithium reserve of about 100 million tons! While it won’t help you if you’ve arrived with a flat battery, Uyuni’s lithium, once extracted, could potentially provide enough fuel for the entire planet’s smart phones and electric cars for the next century. Enjoy free time on arrival – perhaps take the opportunity to rest up before you kick off your exciting excursion to Salar de Uyuni tomorrow.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Salar de Uyuni

Depart Uyuni this morning and venture out on a three-day 4WD excursion – be prepared for a busy few days ahead. The first stop will be Cementerio de Trenes (the Train Cemetery) for an eerie look at abandoned locomotives that have been engulfed by the desert. Then, continue on to the highlight of Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni – the world’s largest salt flats. This vast desert-like landscape of blinding white salt and cactus-studded islands is the remains of a dried-up prehistoric lake. The desolate and dehydrated eco-system hosts very little wildlife, however it is home to pink flamingos. Make the most of your time on the salt flats, pose for some snaps and explore Inca Wasi – an island covered in cacti and coral-like structures.

Included Activities:

Salt flats - Visit to 'Fish Island/Inca Wasi'
Uyuni - Colchani Salt Factory Visit

Accommodation:

Dormitory (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Salar de Uyuni

After breakfast, hit the road through the incredible wilderness of the Andean Desert. Pass by Chiguana Salt Lake, the active Ollague Volcano and other small lakes of various colours – perhaps with a streak of pink if flamingos are nearby! Continue to the Siloli Desert – known for its seven-coloured mountain and Arbol de Piedra (Stone Tree) rock formation. You’ll also visit an Andean wildlife reserve (Reserva de Eduardo Avaroa) and hike around the Laguna Colorada (Red Lake) – keep an eye out for llamas, vicunas and foxes along the way. After a big day, head to your accommodation in a local community (either Huayllajara or Polques) for a well-earned rest and an included dinner

Included Activities:

Eduardo Avaroa National Reserve - Altiplano tour including Laguna Colorada

Accommodation:

Dormitory (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Uyuni

Rise early to try to catch the sunrise over the surrounding geysers. These bubbling fumaroles are especially active in the morning thanks to the cold air. There may also be an opportunity to visit a hot spring for an optional morning dip. After, drive through more barren landscapes – some of which are frequently compared to Salvador Dali’s paintings – to the strikingly green Laguna Verde, Valle de Rocas (Rock Valley) and the San Cristobal mining town. You’ll return to Uyuni around 5 pm to spend the night at your leisure. After a few days in the desert, you may want to check out a local restaurant with your group for an optional dinner and drinks.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Uyuni – Tilcara

Rise and shine and prepare for a long travel day as you cross the border into Argentina. Set off at 6 am from Uyuni town to La Quiaca. Arriving around 1.30 pm, cross into Argentina by foot and then jump in a taxi to the bus station. You’ll have a chance to stop briefly for lunch with your group, before jumping on another bus to Tilcara, arriving at approximately 6 pm. Nothing is planned on arrival, but if you’re not too exhausted from today’s journey, perhaps head out for dinner – your group leader will be able to point you in the right direction for a feed.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Tilcara

Today is a free day to explore this dusty and enchanting town. Nestled in the mountain valley of Quebrada de Humahuaca, Tilcara is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Argentina with an indigenous culture dating back more than 10,000 years – and the influx of tourists hasn’t stopped the age-old customs and rituals from flourishing. You might like to marvel at the pre-Inca ruins at Pucara de Tilcara, or perhaps venture out of town and check out the colourful hills of Purmamarca. If you’re keen for an authentic lunch, visit the vibrant local market, Mercado Municipal de Tilcara, to try some local street food favourites, like the traditional empanada.Your tour leader will be able to provide suggestions and help you make the best of your time here.

Optional Activities:

Quebrada de Humahuaca - Free
Purmamarca Town - Free
Garganta del diablo (Devil's Throat Waterfall) - Free
Quebrada de las Señoritas & Hornocal Hill (45 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12-14: Buenos Aires

This morning, enjoy a relaxed morning in Tilcara before you are transferred to Jujuy for an evening flight to Buenos Aires. Fiery Latin passion, European elegance and superb cuisine combine to make Buenos Aires one of the world's most enthralling cities. You’ve got the next few days to choose your own adventure – nibble on alfajores, wander San Telmo's cobblestone streets, talk football with Portenos (people from Buenos Aires) in a cafe or get a history lesson at the quirky Museo Evita. Alternatively, you might like to walk among the tombs at the La Recoleta Cemetery – the final resting place of Eva Peron – or check out some of the great museums in the Recoleta district. Visit the neighbourhood of La Boca, home to the colourful Caminito artists’ street and world-renowned soccer team, Boca Juniors. The hottest spot in town is Palermo's Plaza Serrano, so why not head out in the evening for a tango with the locals. There are so many things to see and do in Buenos Aires, it's simply a matter of trying to fit them all in.

Optional Activities:

Buenos Aires - Polo day (185 USD)
Buenos Aires - Ateneo Bookshop - Free
Buenos Aires - Tango Show and Dinner (120 USD)
Buenos Aires - Recoleta Cemetry (5 USD)
Buenos Aires - Football game (subject to availability) from (120 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 2)
(Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Buenos Aires

After a free morning at leisure, you'll head out this afternoon on an orientation walk around Buenos Aires’ Microcentro district. Pass by historic buildings along the Avenida de Mayo, including the Casa Rosada (Argentina's government house) and perhaps have a coffee in the traditional Cafe Tortoni. Stroll around the picturesque streets of San Telmo and its antique markets. You'll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to prepare for the rest of your adventure.

Included Activities:

Buenos Aires - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Buenos Aires - Polo day (185 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Colonia del Sacramento

The morning is free to explore Buenos Aires. Later cross the Rio de la Plata (River Plate) to Colonia del Sacramento by ferry (approximately 1.5 hours). On arrival, enjoy free time to explore this charming colonial city, known as the oldest in Uruguay. The World Heritage-listed Barrio Historico (Old Quarter) is a great place to start. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and rub shoulders with locals as they sip their yerba mate (tea). Listen to the noisy parakeets in the Plaza Mayor, or comb Colonia’s small museums. For great views over the city, climb to the top of a 19th-century lighthouse that’s still in operation.

Optional Activities:

Colonia - Lighthouse visit (35 UYU)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Colonia del Sacramento / Estancia Stay

Today enjoy a free morning in Colonia De Sacramento to continue exploring the town. Colonia was also settled by Swiss immigrants and is home to a unique local Swiss cheese that you can choose to try in the local market. In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred towards Mercedes village for your estancia stay where you can get to know your hosts.

Included Activities:

Estancia Stay - 3-Night Stay on an Estancia

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Estancia Stay

Spend a couple of days experiencing life on a Uruguayan estancia. Although you’re welcome to relax and explore your surroundings at your leisure, you can also get involved with activities at the ranch such as empanada making or a game of football or volley ball. You can even enjoy some music around the campfire! The digs aren’t fancy, but the incredible surroundings and hospitality are something special. Enjoy home-cooked meals including a traditional Asado (BBQ) and the chance to ride horses, in true gaucho (cowboy) style.

Optional Activities:

Estancia - Horse riding - Free

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Estancia Stay

Spend the day taking in the gorgeous views across the estancia. Continue to explore your surroundings at leisure and perhaps even make your way into nearby Mercedes Town for a river walk and ice cream.

Optional Activities:

Estancia - Horse riding - Free

Accommodation:

Estancia (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Overnight Bus - Iguazu Falls

In the morning bid farewell to your hosts. Travel to the Uruguay/Argentinian border (1.5 hours). Cross the border to Argentina. Board a 16-hour overnight bus to Puerto Iguazu.

Accommodation:

Overnight Bus (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Iguazu Falls (Brazilian Side)

As soon as you arrive at Puerto Iguazu bus station this morning, take a minivan across the border into Brazil and head straight to the national park to witness the majestic Foz do Iguacu/Iguazu Falls. After some time spent admiring this force of nature, head to your hotel in Foz do Iguacu. Enjoy free time for the rest of the day.

Included Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Brazilian side of the falls

Optional Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Bird Park (160 BRL)
Iguazu Falls - Helicopter ride (610 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Iguazu Falls (Argentinian side)

Return to Argentina today to see Iguazu Falls from a different angle. Following a series of boardwalks, it’s possible to get so close to the thundering waters that you can almost touch them. At over two-kilometres long, Iguazu Falls are made up of over 270 separate cascades, with some reaching up to 80 metres in height. For a more exhilarating experience, take an optional Zodiac boat ride to the base of the falls! In the afternoon return to your accommodation in Foz do Iguacu in Brazil.

Included Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Tour of the Argentinian side of the falls

Optional Activities:

Iguazu Falls - Zodiac ride up to the falls (90 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Rio de Janeiro

Take an included flight to Rio de Janeiro. Settle into your hotel room then head out with your leader for an orientation walk. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe head to Copacabana or Ipanema Beach or, if the time of year is right, check out a soccer game at the famous Maracana Stadium. You might like to take the tramcar up to the hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa or head up Corcovado Mountain, where you’ll find sweeping views over Rio from the foot of the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Optional Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain 3 (Admission Fee) (160 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent) (400 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee (67 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar (20 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance) (82 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Rio de Janeiro

Bem-vindo! Welcome to Brazil. Your experience begins at 1 pm today with a leader-led orientation walk around Rio. In the evening, there will be an important meeting at 6 pm where you’ll talk through the details of your Brazilian adventure. Rio locals like to say that 'God made the world in six days, the seventh he devoted to Rio'. In this heaving metropolis, set against Guanabara Bay and surrounded by the slopes of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, it's hard not to be caught up in the passion of the city's residents, known as Cariocas. Known for both the glitz and glamour of Carnaval and the contrasting image of the favelas, Rio is a fascinating and diverse centre of all things colour. Tonight, after your briefing, why not keep the introductions going with an optional welcome dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25-26: Paraty

This morning, take a shared transfer from Rio to Paraty (approximately 4 .5 hours). The remainder of today and rest of tomorrow are yours to explore Paraty. Admire the architecture as you wander along the town’s cobbled, pedestrian-only streets, which become partly covered in seawater at high tide. You might prefer to explore the rainforest trails in the surrounding national park, which is rich in wildlife and waterfalls. Otherwise, a boat trip on the island-studded bay for scenic views along the coast could be on the cards, or join an excursion to the nearby village of Trindade, which boasts some of Brazil’s best beaches. The best thing is you get to decide.

Optional Activities:

Paraty - Boat trip (220 BRL)
Paraty - Trindade excursion (150 BRL)
Paraty - Cachaca Walking Tour (100 BRL)
Paraty - Jeep Tour (150 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 2)

Day 27: Ilha Grande

Today, jump on a shared transfer to Angra followed by a ferry to the island getaway of Ilha Grande, taking approximately 5 hours, in total. This paradise of pristine beaches and rainforest has been largely untouched by development. Previously a pirate's lair, a leper colony and a prison for violent criminals, the island has a fascinating history to uncover. The ruins of the prison can still be seen today. Once you’ve arrived and got your bearings, head to the beach – it’s calling your name.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28-29: Ilha Grande

Rise and shine in paradise, ready to enjoy two full free days exploring Ilha Grande. Wander along rainforest trails to beautiful and remote beaches – Lopes Mendes and Aventureiro Beach are two of the best. You could book yourself in on an optional boat trip out to the Blue Lagoon, beach-hopping through Ilha Grande Bay along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for fresh seafood, and to swim and snorkel in the clear water. Or just plonk yourself on the beach with a good book and laze the day away. In the evening, why not meet up with some of your travel pals and relax with a caipirinha at a restaurant or bar in Vila do Abraao – the island’s main town.

Optional Activities:

Ilha Grande - Blue Lagoon boat trip (250 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 2)

Day 30: Rio de Janeiro

Bid farewell to this slice of heaven as you board a boat to the small port of Mangaratiba today, and from here, take a minivan back to Rio de Janeiro. The total journey should take about 3.5 hours, so you should be back in Rio in the early to mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore the city or simply hit up Copacabana and relax. Tonight, get together with your travel crew for a night of food, drinks and some samba – speak to your local leader who’ll have some great recommendations for what to do tonight.

Optional Activities:

Rio de Janeiro - Sugarloaf Mountain 3 (Admission Fee) (160 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Botanical Gardens admission fee (67 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Santa Teresa tramcar (20 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Maracana football game (schedule dependent) (400 BRL)
Rio de Janeiro - Christ the Redeemer (entrance) (82 BRL)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 31: Rio de Janeiro

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time, provided you comply with the hotel’s internal check-out policies. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to continue soaking up the sun in Rio, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $8,325

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 31 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Explore South America on this 31-day tour.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 01 Jan 2027

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

James

Traveled, January 2024

02/15/2024

If you have never travelled with Intepid Travel before , definitely use them , their guides are excellent and knowledgeable and become friends !

4.5

henriette

Traveled, December 2024

02/15/2024

This trip is deftly not for everyone there are many small and bigger things that the intrepid can easily do to make this trip much more convertible couple of things to memo no bed sheet on the bed, put 7 adults in a jeep for the whole day travel, quality and food safety for the meals that are include in the trip is not excepted lot of this places not have electricity and meat etc are outside the fridge for many hrs before repaired. there are many long public bus rides on this trip with two overnight ones and no stops. There are many wonderful cities and beautiful countries to explore on this trip but keep in mind it is very different

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now