Bolivia Backpacking Adventure: Tupiza Highlights & Horseback Riding

Navigating Sunday Food Scarcity in Tupiza

Finding lunch on a Sunday in Tupiza proved more challenging than anticipated. Many restaurants, even those listed as open on Google Maps, were firmly shut. A wave of Sunday-induced closure washed over the town, leaving us slightly panicked and quite hungry. My vegetarian preferences further complicated matters; options felt severely limited.

We eventually stumbled upon a tiny, local eatery, lacking even a menu. The experience was a sensory overload – a chaotic mix of smells, sounds, and bustling activity. It felt deeply authentic. While my travel companion found something to eat, I managed to locate some cheese and bananas at a small shop – a small victory in a town seemingly asleep on a Sunday.

Later, after a less-than-stellar empanada experience (let’s just say the cheese-to-dough ratio was severely off), we finally located a restaurant that was open and serving. We were ravenous by then, and let me tell you, the relief of finally finding a proper meal was immense. It’s a good reminder to travelers – always have a backup plan when it comes to food, especially on Sundays in smaller towns!

Embarking on a Horseback Riding Excursion

After a surprisingly relaxing day in Tupiza, we had something truly exciting planned: a horseback riding tour. I, a former horse enthusiast, was thrilled. My travel companion, however, was a complete novice; this would be his maiden voyage into the world of equestrian adventures.

Our tour provider assured us that the excursion was suitable even for beginners, and their words proved true. The horses were calm, well-cared for, and clearly experienced. The pace was leisurely, focusing on a gentle amble through stunning landscapes, rather than any wild gallops. It was, in short, a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Bolivian countryside.

The three-hour ride was blissfully peaceful. We encountered few other people, and the serenity of the surroundings was palpable. It was almost dreamlike; the breathtaking scenery felt like something straight out of a video game. Even the brief, slightly less-than-ideal toilet stop couldn't diminish the overall perfection of the excursion.

I wholeheartedly recommend this horse riding tour to anyone visiting Tupiza. Whether you're an experienced rider or a complete beginner like my travel companion, the stunning scenery, calm horses, and leisurely pace guarantee a memorable and enjoyable experience. Just remember to pack some extra water – and perhaps some hand sanitizer!

Last Night in Tupiza and Plans for Uyuni

Our last evening in Tupiza settled over us with a gentle tranquility. After a day spent blissfully ambling through the Bolivian countryside on horseback, we were ready for a quiet night. The little hotel, with its charming courtyard and surprisingly luxurious pool, felt like a perfect haven. We lingered over dinner, reflecting on our adventures and the unexpected ease of our Bolivian border crossing. It had been quite a journey!

Tomorrow, Uyuni beckoned. The famed salt flats awaited, and we were brimming with anticipation. Getting there, however, promised to be an adventure in itself. The logistics weren't entirely clear – finding a suitable bus, navigating schedules... But after the unexpected calm of Tupiza, we felt ready for anything. We spent the evening meticulously planning our route, researching options, and confirming our tour. A bit of pre-trip anxiety was good for us, a bit of anticipation.

One last dip in the pool before packing, then a peaceful night's sleep. The anticipation was palpable, as exciting as the thrill of the horseback ride. Tomorrow, we would face the vast, surreal beauty of the Uyuni Salt Flats. Bolivia continued to impress, exceeding expectations at every turn.

Video Introduction: Bolivia - An Underrated Destination

I'm always on the lookout for hidden gems, those places that exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression. And let me tell you, Bolivia fits the bill perfectly. This video, a glimpse into our three-week backpacking adventure through South America, is a testament to that. It’s a whirlwind tour of stunning scenery, unexpected bureaucratic efficiency (yes, really!), and some genuinely memorable experiences.

We started our Bolivian journey in Tupiza, a charming town that served as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The video captures the essence of our time there: the surprisingly luxurious (and affordable!) hotel, the challenges (and triumphs!) of finding food on a Sunday, and of course, the breathtaking horseback riding tour. It truly felt like a scene straight out of a video game – a serene, almost dreamlike adventure punctuated by only a slightly less-than-ideal restroom stop. I'll let you in on a secret: it's even more beautiful than the video shows!

So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let this video transport you to the heart of Bolivia. It’s a country that deserves more attention than it gets, and I can’t wait for you to discover why. From the surprisingly easy border crossing to the unexpected delights of Tupiza, Bolivia has quickly become one of my favorite travel destinations. And it’s just the beginning; we've got the famous salt flats to explore next. Stay tuned for more Bolivian adventures!

How easy was the border crossing from Argentina to Bolivia?

The border crossing was surprisingly easy and efficient, taking only minutes. This was in contrast to the experience of a US couple who had to deal with extensive paperwork. The author attributes this ease to it being a Sunday, when banks were closed.

What were the challenges and rewards of finding food in Tupiza on a Sunday?

Many restaurants were closed due to it being Sunday. The author's vegetarian preferences further limited options. They found a small, local eatery and later a restaurant that was open. The experience highlighted the importance of having backup food plans, particularly on Sundays in smaller towns.

What was the horseback riding tour in Tupiza like?

The three-hour horseback riding tour was described as blissful and peaceful, traversing stunning landscapes at a leisurely pace. The horses were calm and well-cared for, making it suitable for both experienced riders and beginners. The author highly recommends this tour for visitors to Tupiza.