Most Inspirational Moment
Experiencing miners hustling outside of their mine in Potosi, and listening to the stories from our guide, was enough to paint a bleak picture of hardship that I knew nothing about. In contrast, the emptiness and vastness of the salt flats was a thing of beauty and wonder and more astonishing than I expected.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Julia was terrific. She knows her stuff, loves showing off her country and clearly cares about the well-being of her group. Everything ran smoothly. The hotels were excellent to adequate, the drivers were careful and her choice of restaurants sometimes surprised with some fabulous meals.
Advice for Potential Travellers
This trip was in early September and although there could be near freezing temperatures in the very early morning at some locations, by the time we were on the road and outdoors, it had warmed up to springlike temperatures. The hotels provide plenty of blankets. Thermal underwear, gloves and bed socks were never needed. It also never rained except for the last morning before departure in Santa Cruz. Pack lighter. The trip notes also need to be updated. Some parts are repetitive and inaccurate. You're much better off having $100 notes and exchanging them for Bolivianos rather than using an ATM or credit card. The official exchange rate was around 6.87 for $1, but unofficially, you can get 10 Bolivianos for $1.