Published: August 11, 2026 – Last updated: September 7, 2026
Bolivia is a country of dramatic contrasts — snow-capped Andean peaks, colonial valley towns, and Amazon rainforest all within one nation. To make it easier to explore, we’ve grouped Bolivia’s nine departments into three regions: Highlands, Valleys, and Lowlands. Browse by region, by travel style, or jump straight to a destination below.
Most Popular First-Time Destinations
New to Bolivia? These four destinations are the most common starting points for first-time visitors.
- La Paz — The world’s highest capital, with cable cars, markets, and dramatic mountain views
- Salar de Uyuni — Bolivia’s iconic salt flats, one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth
- Sucre — Bolivia’s elegant white city, and a relaxed introduction to colonial history
- Copacabana — A peaceful lakeside town on Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake
Browse by Region
Bolivia is often described in three parts: the cool, high-altitude Highlands, the mild, fertile Valleys, and the warm, Amazon-fed Lowlands. Here’s what each region offers.
Highlands
Bolivia’s dramatic high-altitude core, home to the world’s highest capital city and some of its most iconic landscapes. Includes La Paz, Potosí, and Oruro.
Valleys
A milder, greener middle ground between the highlands and lowlands, known for colonial cities, fertile farmland, and Bolivia’s wine country. Includes Cochabamba, Sucre, and Tarija.
Lowlands
Bolivia’s warm, tropical east, where the Andes give way to plains and Amazon rainforest. Includes Santa Cruz, Beni, and Pando.
Browse by Travel Style
Not sure where to start? Here’s Bolivia organized by the kind of trip you’re after.
Adventure & Nature
For salt flats, mountain biking, jungle expeditions, and dramatic landscapes. Start with Salar de Uyuni, La Paz (Death Road, hiking), and Beni (Amazon).
History & Culture
For colonial architecture, museums, and Bolivia’s deep cultural roots. Start with Sucre, Potosí, and Tarija (wine country and colonial charm) and Tiwanaku, one of South America’s most significant pre-Columbian archaeological sites.
City Life
For urban energy, markets, food, and nightlife. Start with La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba.
Off the Beaten Path
For travelers who want to go further afield. Start with Oruro, Pando, and Beni.
Full Destination Directory
- Beni
- Cochabamba
- Copacabana
- La Paz
- Oruro
- Pando
- Potosí
- Salar de Uyuni
- Santa Cruz
- Sucre
- Tarija
- Tiwanaku
How Many Places Can You Realistically Visit?
With nine departments and dozens of destinations, it’s easy to feel like you need to see everything at once — you don’t. See our Itineraries guide for realistic route suggestions based on how much time you have, from a quick one-week trip to the classic two-week loop.
FAQ
How is Bolivia divided for travel purposes?
Bolivia is commonly grouped into three regions: the high-altitude Highlands, the milder Valleys, and the warm, Amazon-fed Lowlands, together covering all nine departments.
Which Bolivia destination should first-time visitors start with?
La Paz, Salar de Uyuni, Sucre, and Copacabana are the most popular starting points for first-time visitors, though the right choice depends on your interests and how much time you have.
Ready to start planning? Head to our Bolivia Travel Guide for the full trip-planning overview, or jump straight to Itineraries to map out your route.