Puno | Excursion to La Paz and Tiwanaku | Full Day

Set out on a captivating one-day excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku. You’ll experience a scenic drive, assist with immigration, and explore colonial wonders and ancient archaeological sites. This intimate group tour offers a chance to learn about the rich history and culture of these remarkable destinations. Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover the treasures that await.

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Key Points

One-day excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku, costing $490 per person with a group size limited to 15 participants.
Early morning pickup at 4:00 am, followed by a 4-hour drive to the Bolivia-Peru border and crossing assistance.
Guided tour of La Paz’s colonial heritage, including the iconic San Francisco Church and the Witches’ Market.
Exploration of the ancient Tiwanaku archaeological site, featuring the Temple of Kalasasaya and the Gate of the Sun.
Recommended items to bring include passport, sunglasses, sun hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Excursion

This one-day excursion takes travelers from Puno to the remarkable cities of La Paz and Tiwanaku.

The tour lasts 1 day and costs from $490 per person, with a group size limited to 15 participants. Available in Spanish and English, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is at 4:00 am, followed by a 4-hour drive to the border. The guided tour in La Paz showcases the colonial quarter, historic center, and the renowned Witches’ Market.

Afterward, the group visits the archaeological site of Tiwanaku before returning to Puno by 3-4 pm.

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Early Departure and Border Crossing

The day starts early with pickup at your hotel around 4:00 am.

You’ll travel for 4 hours to the border town of Desaguadero. Here, you’ll meet your guide and cross into Bolivia. The border crossing is straightforward, with your guide handling immigration and customs.

Once in Bolivia, you’ll continue your journey to La Paz. Along the way, take in the stunning Andean landscapes. The drive offers a glimpse of rural Bolivian life.

The stunning Andean landscapes and glimpses of rural Bolivian life await as you continue your journey to La Paz.

Arriving in La Paz, you’ll be awed by the city’s dramatic setting, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains.

Exploring the Colonial Wonders of La Paz

Upon arrival in La Paz, the guided tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich colonial heritage.

The exploration begins in the historic downtown, showcasing the 16 de Julio avenue and the Mariscal Gamarra avenue.

Next, the group visits the iconic San Francisco Church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

The final stop is the Witches’ Market, where indigenous vendors offer traditional medicines, textiles, and other handcrafted goods.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into La Paz’s unique blend of Spanish colonial influences and indigenous Aymara culture, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and present.

Discovering the Archaeological Site of Tiwanaku

After exploring the colonial wonders of La Paz, the excursion continues to the archaeological site of Tiwanaku. This ancient civilization, dating back to 1500 BC, offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can marvel at the Temple of Kalasasaya, the pyramid of Akapana, the Gate of the Sun, and the ceremonial vessels (queros) and huaco portraits. The site provides a fascinating insight into the architectural and artistic achievements of the Tiwanaku people.

| Tiwanaku Site Highlights | Key Features |

|————————–|————–|

| Temple of Kalasasaya | Monumental gateway and temple complex |

| Pyramid of Akapana | Stepped pyramid with underground tunnels |

| Gate of the Sun | Intricately carved stone gateway |

| Ceremonial Vessels | Elaborately decorated ceramic vessels |

| Huaco Portraits | Sculpted stone heads depicting individuals |

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Important Items to Bring

Visitors should pack a few essential items for the excursion. A passport is a must, as you’ll be crossing the border into Bolivia.

A passport is a must when crossing the border into Bolivia for the excursion.

Sunglasses and a sun hat will protect you from the bright sun. Bring biodegradable sunscreen to shield your skin. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial, as you’ll be exploring historic sites.

Avoid packing alcohol and drugs, as they’re not allowed. For last-minute inquiries, contact the supplier via email to check availability.

One or two days before the tour, reach out on WhatsApp to confirm the pickup time. With these items in tow, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.

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Restrictions and Last-Minute Reservations

Travelers should be aware that alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted on the excursion. This rule is strictly enforced for the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

For last-minute reservations, it’s recommended to check availability with the supplier via email. This is particularly important, as the group size is limited to 15 people.

Guests are advised to contact the provider via WhatsApp one or two days before the tour to confirm the pickup time. This ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventures exploring the wonders of La Paz and the archaeological site of Tiwanaku.

Booking and Payment Options

Customers can reserve their spot on the excursion without any upfront payment.

To book the tour, follow these easy steps:

Check availability for the desired starting times.
Select the number of participants and preferred tour date.
Complete the booking process online.
Pay for the tour at least 24 hours before the departure date.

Flexible booking options and secure payment methods ensure a seamless experience.

With no need for advance payment, travelers can easily plan their Puno adventure.

Explore La Paz and the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku at your convenience.

Tour Duration, Group Size, and Languages

The excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku is a 1-day tour that lasts from pickup at 4:00 am until return between 14:00 and 15:00.

The group size is limited to just 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Limited to just 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience during the excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku.

Languages offered are Spanish and English, catering to a diverse audience.

Whether you’re looking for an insightful cultural exploration or simply seeking an adventurous day trip, this excursion offers a well-rounded itinerary packed into a convenient 1-day format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows participants to bring their own food and drinks, though meals not mentioned in the inclusions are at an extra cost. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

The tour may not be fully accessible for people with disabilities. Visitors should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs or accommodations required. The itinerary involves walking and visiting archaeological sites that may have limited accessibility.

Do I Need to Obtain a Visa for This Excursion?

The excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku doesn’t require a visa for Bolivian citizens. However, travelers from other countries should check visa requirements with their local embassy or consulate before booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The provided information indicates the excursion is a 1-day tour from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku. It doesn’t appear to offer any flexibility to extend the duration.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The supplier offers private tour options, allowing you to customize the experience and group size to suit your needs. Contact them for pricing and availability details.

The Sum Up

This captivating one-day excursion from Puno to La Paz and Tiwanaku offers an immersive experience, blending colonial heritage with ancient Andean culture. Participants will explore stunning landmarks, uncover the vibrant Witches’ Market, and explore the rich history of the Tiwanaku archaeological site. With early departure, border assistance, and an intimate group size, this tour provides a seamless and enriching journey for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: