Potosí

21 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

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Walk the centre: Potosí's colonial core around Plaza 10 de Noviembre is compact, so walking is easiest, just take it slowly at this altitude.
Use micros and shared taxis: Small buses and colectivos run fixed routes between the centre and outer barrios; ask locals which number passes your stop.
Book buses at the terminal: Long-distance buses to Uyuni, Sucre and La Paz leave from the bus terminal; buy tickets a day ahead in busy seasons.

Choose mine tours carefully: Cerro Rico mines are working mines with real risks; go with an established cooperative-linked operator that supplies helmets, lamps and boots.
Respect the altitude: At over 4,000 metres, altitude sickness is the biggest risk; rest on arrival, drink water and avoid heavy drinking the first days.
Watch bags at the terminal: Bus stations and crowded markets attract pickpockets; keep valuables in front and use registered taxis at night.

Eat the almuerzo: Set lunches with soup and a main are filling and cheap at local comedores and in the Mercado Central.
Pay in bolivianos: Carry small notes, as many shops and taxis struggle with change and cards are not widely accepted.
Combine with Sucre: Sucre is a short bus ride away and has more budget lodging choices; many travellers base there and visit Potosí as a trip.

Pack for cold: Nights are freezing much of the year, especially in the dry winter from May to August, so bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves.
Layer up by day: Sunshine feels warm at midday but shade is chilly; wear layers you can peel off and put back on quickly.
Protect from strong sun: High-altitude UV is intense, so wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat even on cool, cloudy days.

Learn the silver story: Visit the Casa Nacional de Moneda, the old royal mint, to understand how Cerro Rico's silver shaped Potosí and the Spanish empire.
Respect El Tío: Miners make offerings of coca leaves and alcohol to El Tío, the spirit of the mine; observe quietly and ask before taking photos.
Try salteñas: These juicy baked empanadas are a mid-morning tradition; eat them upright so the broth doesn't spill.

Bring gifts for miners: On mine tours, buying coca leaves, drinks or gloves at the miners' market is a welcome gesture for the workers you meet.
Drink coca tea: Mate de coca is offered in many hotels and cafes and is a local remedy for altitude fatigue.
Plan heated rooms: Many cheap rooms lack heating; ask about heaters or extra blankets before you book.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 1

🕘 9:30–17:00📍 5 stops