Planning a vacation for your family can be a challenge, especially if you are trying to make memories that will last for everyone. Popular spots in town or an hour or so drive away can get boring after a while, and time may fly by too fast before you finally consider not putting off such a unique experience.
One spot that you need to visit for this occasion as soon as possible is Bolivia. This South American country is full of locations to explore that are sure to entertain both parents and children. Some options provide an educational experience, while others focus on the thrills. Here are some reasons for why Bolivia should be on your family’s bucket list this year. Of course, the fact that it makes our list of top safest countries to visit in South America as well as safest places to visit in South America makes it more appealing.
1. La Paz
The great part about cities is the load of avenues you can take to have a good time. That is clearly demonstrated with La Paz, the highest administrative capital of the world. The museums have plenty of artifacts to check out, and Cholita wrestling should be a hit with the kids.
The must-do attraction, however, in La Paz is Mi Teleferico, the world’s largest cable car system. You’ll get amazing views of the city and mountains in the area. Just make sure that no one in the family is afraid of heights.
2. Salar de Uyuni
Some of the best sites are those that are only accessed close to nature. If your family is used to hikes through the mountains close to home, then you should visit Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world, so that you can add some uniqueness to your photo collection.
You won’t have to go on any intense hiking trails at this site, which used to be the home of a prehistoric lake. It doesn’t hurt to stop by when it’s raining, as the water on the surface produces a mirror reflection that makes you feel like you’re walking in the sky.
3. Pampas Tours
Bolivia is home to a variety of areas that help you experience the best of the outdoors. One example is the Pampas, which let you explore the lower wetlands of the Amazon. Boats are the easiest way to get around this area, especially if you want to stay dry.
Tours give you the chance to come across different forms of wildlife, such as monkeys, pink river dolphins, alligators, turtles, and anacondas. With the right distance, you can get these creatures and your family in the same photo.
4. Tandem Paragliding
A lack of fear when it comes to heights will ensure that your family has an amazing time in Bolivia. One way in which it comes in handy is with paragliding, and flights are available for those who want to go in pairs.
This can help in case you have one person in your group who is still trying to get used to heights, as flying through the air with someone who is used to it can reassure them. Flights are also best done in the mornings if you want to avoid the wind.
5. Yungas
Another spot that brings you close to nature is the Yungas. This band of forest is situated right between the Amazon and Andres mountains, which makes it the perfect place for those trying to get away from the noise and business of the city life.
The trails take you along the sides of mountains, giving your group amazing views of the mountains and valleys below. You can choose between walking tours if you want to take it easy or go biking if you want to make the visit a little more fun.
6. Tiwanaku
Visiting another country allows you to explore what was left behind by the previous civilizations that called it home. If you want to give your kids a history lesson, then an afternoon at Tiwanaku should be at the top of your to-do list.
This archeological site gives visitors a look at what Bolivia was like pre-Columbian times. The buildings, statues, and forms of art display what was locally deemed valuable, and the Cordillera Real mountain range in the back adds to the view.
7. Chacaltaya Mountain
One of the great things about mountains is the view you get at the top as reward for the journey you made to the top. This list includes Chacaltaya Mountain, which provides the chance to feel like you are on top of the world.
Both hiking and biking trails are available in case you and the family want to get a workout in during the day. Going early in the morning is the smart move if you want to avoid getting too hot under the sun in the afternoon.
8. Moon Valley
It’s one thing for a natural wonder to make you feel like you’re far from civilization, but it’s another thing when it makes you feel like you’re on another planet. That’s where Valle de la Luna, or Moon Valley in English, comes in.
The landscape makes you feel like you’re on the moon, providing plenty of formations to check out and use as shade on a sunny day. This valley is also only an hour drive away from La Paz, which gives you time for a night back in the city.
9. Palca Canyon
Some areas in nature include spots at different heights and lengths so that you always have something to do during your visit. One place on this list that centers around exploration of the outdoors is Palca Canyon.
The nearby town of Palca provides plenty of information on how to go about traveling through the canyons and mountains. You’ll feel like you’re in a desert one minute, and then the jungle the next, and then closer to the snow-covered mountains later on.
10. Lake Titicaca
In case you’re wondering what other giant natural wonder Bolivia is the home to, another one you should check out is Lake Titicaca. This is one of the biggest lakes in South America, as well as the highest navigable body of water the world has to offer.
You’ll be able to see mountains and towns in the distance as you look across the lake, as well as those nearby. There are several islands you can visit during your stay, and you can participate in La Candelaria, a Catholic feast dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Pick a date to visit Bolivia as soon as possible so that you’re family can enjoy a variety of adventures together.
