Altiplano Day Trips: 5 Must-See Tours and Adventures

So, you’re planning a trip to the Altiplano? That high plateau in South America, stretching across parts of Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile, it’s just almost unreal with its landscapes and fascinating culture. Very often, people find themselves using cities like La Paz or Puno as base camps. From those places, it’s pretty simple to strike out on all kinds of adventures. If you are sort of strapped for time or just want a taste of what the Altiplano has to offer, you can go on a day trip. A day trip lets you see some really incredible sights. Day trips make seeing remote spots much simpler, too.

Lake Titicaca and the Uros Floating Islands

Okay, first up, there’s Lake Titicaca, that big, deep lake in the Andes. A visit there simply isn’t complete without a trip to the Uros Floating Islands. Those islands, so intricately crafted by the Uros people, they’re completely made from reeds! The experience there, it’s like, stepping into a completely different era. You actually learn about how the Uros people construct and maintain these floating homes, something you definitely won’t forget. You get a first hand understanding about their traditional way of life there, it’s pretty eye opening. That, mixed with the incredible views of Lake Titicaca? It’s the kind of day that really sticks with you.

Many tours, that begin from Puno, generally include a boat trip to the islands, a guided explanation by locals and sometimes, a chance to purchase handmade crafts. It might sound touristy, yet it’s an important part of supporting the Uros community. I was there last year and so vividly, I recall being shown how they constantly add new layers of reeds. I recall being impressed by that because, those new layers keep the islands afloat, yet it really is like a living, breathing piece of art. The vibrant colours of the textiles and the friendly smiles? Those genuinely add something to the day’s atmosphere.

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Tiwanaku: Exploring Pre-Inca Ruins

Then, just slightly outside of La Paz, there’s Tiwanaku, that old pre-Inca archaeological spot. If you are remotely interested in history or archaeology, so it is almost a must see. These ruins, a place that includes the Gate of the Sun and the Akapana pyramid, they showcase the skill and knowledge of the Tiwanaku civilization, you see. Very old stonework and the sheer scale of the place really show how influential this culture once was. Guides tend to share info regarding the history of the site and the interpretations of the symbols and structures, which, in turn, bring the ruins to life.

One standout memory I have, it’s that time I wandered through the Kalasasaya complex. Standing next to those massive stones, the ones that were placed so precisely, it, yet, gave me this sense of awe for the civilization. Think about them moving those stones centuries ago. Really imagine them without current technology and that’s a bit mind-blowing, you know? So, for anybody curious regarding the past, Tiwanaku can definitely deliver an enriching experience.

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Salar de Uyuni: The World’s Largest Salt Flat (from Uyuni)

Speaking of otherworldly experiences, that Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat in Bolivia, it should definitely be on your list. While a multiple day adventure definitely provides the most thorough experience, you really can get a solid introduction through a well planned day trip originating from the town of Uyuni, it’s true! Just think of the flat, bright white landscape that seems to stretch forever. It creates these really surreal photo opportunities.

While I think I remember it, what really made it stand out? The feeling of total isolation mixed with the unbelievable views, you know? Most day tours take you to Incahuasi Island. That, like your own island of rocks and giant cacti, that actually stands in the middle of the salt flat, that adds a special touch. And so, too, it’s almost when the wet season comes around. The salt flat actually becomes a giant mirror. It reflects the sky and the clouds and, honestly, transforms the area into something magical.

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Valley of the Souls (Valle de las Animas)

For something just a bit different, see about visiting the Valle de las Animas close to La Paz, also called Valley of the Souls. The area is riddled with these tall, pointy rock formations, created via wind and erosion. This actually forms something of an impressive, eerie landscape. This can be really evocative. In particular, the local legends, relating to spirits, kind of enhance the place’s atmosphere.

One afternoon, very, very late, as I was there I almost remember wandering through these formations when the sun started to set. Those shadows made those spires look almost ghost like. Actually it felt like I had been transported into some alternate universe. Bring your camera! In fact, because the vistas here offer unique photographic chances that shouldn’t be skipped, even if the spot may be off the usual tourist trail.

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Copacabana and Isla del Sol (Lake Titicaca)

Okay, and then to end the tour, there’s Copacabana and Isla del Sol on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca, right? Copacabana is actually a charming town known for its basilica and lively atmosphere. From there, that, yet, gets you to Isla del Sol. This is considered to be the birthplace of the Inca sun god. Isla del Sol, it boasts a combination of stunning landscapes, old ruins and serene hiking trails.

Last summer, after hiking from the north part of the island down to the south, stopping at various ruins, as I remember, the views just kept getting more spectacular. The feeling you get being on that island, surrounded with that clear water, there are so very many peaceful moments, you see. Copacabana can really act like the perfect jump-off point. That can easily combine culture and nature right into one memorable day.

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