Bolivia and Peru Tours
Traveling to Bolivia and Peru: An Overview
Planning a tour of Peru and Bolivia is easy and convenient, thanks to frequent flights and buses connecting the most popular destinations in both countries. However, for a smooth, enjoyable trip, it helps to carefully consider your itinerary and transportation options.
Getting from Bolivia and Peru
A combined trip of Bolivia and Peru often begins or ends in La Paz or Cusco, respectively. The two cities are approximately 529 kilometers (328 miles) apart and linked by a highway that runs along some of the most stunning Andean landscapes. Alternatively, regular flights operate between major airports like Santa Cruz Viru Viru International or El Alto International in Bolivia and Aeroporto Internazionale Jorge Chávez near Lima or Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International in Peru. Flights from Lima to La Paz average just under two hours, while the bus journey from La Paz to Cusco takes 13 to 16 hours, offering travelers choices based on budget, time, and personal preferences.
Best time to visit Bolivia and Peru
The best time to plan your Bolivia and Peru tour is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this period, both countries experience clear weather conditions and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing. But remember popular destinations like Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca can be crowded in July and August, which are generally considered high-season months. If you plan to visit during these months, it is advisable to book your accommodations and tours in advance.
For more detailed information, check out our guide on the best time to visit Bolivia and the best time to visit Peru.
Highlights of Bolivia and Peru Trip
- On your La Paz tour, wander through the iconic Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas) and the colorful San Pedro Market in Cusco.
- Discover the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the Amazon rainforest on thrilling safari tours of the Bolivian Pampas and Tambopata National Reserve in Peru.
- Explore the remains of ancient civilizations at sites such as Tiwanaku in Bolivia and the Sacred Valley in Peru, both of which offer valuable insights into pre-Columbian cultures.
- Be tempted by the rich culinary scene in Arequipa and Lima, which offers a unique mix of Andean, European, and Asian ingredients that perfectly encapsulate the multicultural soul of both countries.
- Get your adrenaline pumping with outdoor activities like zip-lining amidst the red rocks of Peñas, facing the majesty of the Cordillera Real, or windsurfing in Pacasmayo.
- Admire the splendid colonial architecture of Sucre and Trujillo, a tapestry of Baroque churches, grand plazas, and elegant palaces.
- Take advantage of iconic rail routes such as Peru's Andes Explorer or Bolivia's Death Road Train to experience the wild and rugged beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Bolivian highlands.
Bolivia and Peru Travel Tips
- Take some time to acclimatize before exploring high-altitude destinations such as La Paz and Cusco. A good idea is to spend a few days in low-altitude cities such as Arequipa or Sucre. Also, ensure adequate hydration, abstain from alcohol and, if necessary, consult a health professional to obtain medication against mountain sickness.
- Opt for local modes of transportation like micros (minibusses) in Bolivia and colectivos (shared vans) in Peru for a more authentic and cost-effective travel experience.
- Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower rates, especially if you want to visit popular sites such as Machu Picchu or Tiwanaku. Another useful tip is to aim for early morning or late afternoon entry to avoid the influx of tourists and savor quieter moments among the ancient ruins.
- Consider booking escorted tours to Peru and Bolivia, as they will allow you to interact with locals, sample regional specialties, and participate in traditional activities, thus ensuring a more immersive and authentic travel experience.
- Make sure to only drink bottled or boiled water during your tours of Bolivia and Peru to avoid gastrointestinal issues, and opt for cooked or peeled fruits and vegetables to minimize the risk of contamination, which is quite common, especially in rural villages in the Andes.
At a Glance: Bolivia Vs Peru
| Bolivia | Peru | |
| Annual visitors | Approximately 1.5 million | Approximately 2.5 million |
| Ideal duration | At least 10 days | At least 2 weeks, ideally 20 days |
| Transportation | Bolivia is reasonably well-connected to Europe and the Americas, with several airlines offering direct and connecting flights between Bolivia and major cities in the region. Buses, colectivos (shared taxis), and minibuses are popular modes of transportation for shorter distances within cities and towns. | Peru offers direct flights to both major European and American cities, as well as connecting flights available via major hubs such as Miami, Bogotá, Lima, and São Paulo. Buses and trains are widely used to travel between cities, and to rural areas across the country. |
| Top destinations | Sucre, La Paz, Salar de Uyuni, Tiwanaku, Potosi, Madidi National Park. | Lima, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacsayhuamán, Lake Titicaca, Sacred Valley. |
| Top activities |
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| Affordability |
USD 50 per day on average. Bolivia offers lower prices on accommodations and activities, especially compared to neighboring countries, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking to explore South America on a budget. However, Bolivia may have less developed tourism infrastructure and fewer luxury amenities than its neighbors. |
USD 60 per day on average. Compared to neighboring South American countries, Peru tends to have a slightly higher cost of travel, especially in popular tourist areas such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley. However, higher rates may be justified by the superior level of tourism infrastructure. |
FAQs for Bolivia and Peru Tours
1. What are the visa and entry requirements for Bolivia and Peru?
Most travelers, including those from the United States, Canada, EU countries, Australia, and New Zealand, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days, but they must have passports with at least six months' validity beyond the scheduled departure date.
2. What is the currency in Bolivia and Peru? Where can you exchange money?
In Bolivia, the currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB), and in Peru, the currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Major banks in both countries offer currency exchange services at competitive rates, but they may charge a commission or fee for the service. The same goes for exchange offices (Casas de Cambio) and street money changers (be sure to negotiate with them for a favorable rate). Also carry cash in US dollars, which is widely accepted.
