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Start the trip with a bang, after all you've waited this long to travel so let the fun really begin. Some of the highlights of this week include:
*Night in Quito – hostel accommodation.
Mitad del Mundo is an absolute must-see when visiting Ecuador! Visit the world’s actual equator and stand with the world in your hands in front of the monument as you are simultaneously in both the Southern and Northern hemispheres! The National museum, located inside the monument, will give provide an insight into the rich indigenous culture of Ecuador. A short walk down the street will take you to the intriguing museum of Intiyan where you will have the opportunity to perform a variety of experiments that will prove you are actually at the equator!
Next stop is the TeleferiQo – the best place to take in the incredible expanse of city, mountain and volcano that forms Ecuador’s capital city, Quito! You will travel by cable car from 3050m on the lower slopes of Volcan Pichincha, all the way up to 4050m! At the top you will be able to see the ice-capped volcanoes of Cayambe, Antisana and Cotopaxi from the mountainside lookouts!
*Night in Quito (B)
The Toachi and Blanco rivers are a blast for experienced rafters and have proved to be the beginning of a whitewater addiction for thousands of first-timers. Flowing off the coastal side of the Andes they have some of the longest navigable sections of whitewater in the country. Combine this with the sights and sounds of the forest environment we pass through and you are guaranteed a day to remember.
The day starts when we pick you up from our Meeting Point in Quito (6.30am). We travel west down through beautiful cloud forest to the shores of the river. The trip will take about 3 hours.
Before setting off down the river, we will fit you with life jackets and helmets, give you a comprehensive safety briefing and train each crew in the paddling techniques needed to navigate our way down the river.
Once on the river you can expect both the action of thrilling whitewater and the tranquility of drifting silently through tropical rainforests. So while you’re guaranteed to get wet you’ll also have the opportunity to be absorbed by the sounds of the forest and to see wildlife up close from our mobile ‘viewing platform’. Rafting time approximately 3½ hrs.
During the trip we’ll stop by the side of the river for a delicious picnic lunch including fresh tropical fruits and served with soft drinks, juice and water. At the end of the trip we celebrate a fun day on the river with a few ice-cold beers and return to Quito. Arrival time is approximately 7pm but may be earlier or later depending on the river level and traffic conditions.
*Night Quito (B,L)
Today you will want to be on Facebook and Twitter telling your friends that you are off to mountain bike in the National Park that is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes – pretty cool hey! The Cotopaxi tour is an exciting day that begins with spectacular views of the unique Andean landscape in the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’. Inside the National Park we hike up to the refuge which is situated at 4,800m on the Cotopaxi snowline. Depending on conditions we will then hike up to 5,000m where it can be possible to see the glacier. Following a safety briefing we’ll commence our downhill descent on mountain bikes! The journey finishes at the beautiful lagoon at the base of Cotopaxi and we’ll then enjoy a hearty lunch!
17:00 Arrive at the Hostel for chocolate cake and hot coffee / tea
*Night in the Avenue of the Volcanoes – Hosteria PapaGayo (B, L)
Get out and about in the wilderness and see for yourself the Avenue of the Volcanoes from a different perspective – on horseback! With trails and horses suitable for beginner and experienced riders, this is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Ride along Papagayo Farm and see the spectacular panoramic views of Pasochoa,
Corazon, Ilinizas…
Afternoon – enjoy the garden and the Jacuzzi of Papagayo.
*Night in the Avenue of the Volcanoes – Hosteria PapaGayo (B, L)
Today you will see the breathtaking views of the emerald green volcanic crater lake – Quilotoa. On the journey there, we pass through the Andean mountains, the ancient canyon of Zumbahua and many indigenous towns and farmlands. Before lunch we will visit a local aboriginal home where you have the opportunity to interact with the inhabitants. We’ll then set off on the steep hike down to the shoreline of the lake, where you will have the option of kayaking, and then either hiking back up to the rim, or using a mule!
*Night at the Avenue of the Volcanos – Hosteria PapaGayo (B,L)
Today you will be enjoying some exhilarating mountain biking in a national park that is home to one of Ecuador’s highest volcanoes, Antisana (5758m). With striking mountain scenery, dense forest, black lagoons and the opportunity to spot condors, just remember to bring your camera!
*Night in the Avenue of the Volcanoes – Hosteria PapaGayo or transfer back to Quito (B,L)
After this first week the schedule becomes flexible. This means you can hop on and hop off the route independent backpacking at your own pace. This is great because you are not tied down to a set itinerary, and you will have well and truly found your feet.
If you are opting for the Galapagos Option (View Itinerary in full) you will transfer to the islands (return flights included) at this point. After the Galapagos Islands you can then pick up the itinerary below from Quito.
Some of the places you might like to visit:
More On Quito:
With a beautiful old town worthy of UNESCO World Heritage Site status, a modern new town with museums galore and a vibrant atmosphere, Quito certainly has plenty to keep you busy. A city tour will show you all the main sights of the city as well as get you oriented for exploring on your own throughout the week.
The old town consists of some lovely streets with colonial style buildings as well as a main plaza with some impressive government and religious buildings, including the oldest cathedral in South America, whereas the new town has the fantastic Casa de Cultura Ecuatoriana, which houses some of the best museums on archaeology, art and traditional culture. This area is also home to Parque el Ejído and the Vivarium, which lets you get up close, but luckily not too personal, with some of Ecuador's wildlife including snakes, lizards and iguanas.
For wildlife of a different kind you'll find a buzzing bar and club scene in Quito, with venues to suit just about any tastes, whether you are looking to salsa the night away, listen to some live music or even get a taste of home at an English pub (shame on you!). You may well need to have had a drink or two in order to try Ecuador's most loved dish of roasted guinea pig. It tastes like chicken. Probably. If you find yourself struggling to acclimatise to the altitude or you just need a pick-me-up for staying out late then try a cup of Coca Tea or chew on some coca leaves - Ecuadorian Red Bull.
Quito also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with its stunning landscapes and interesting villages, which is exactly what you get to do whilst your here.
Otavalo Craft Markets
Otavalo is a town just north of Quito and is famous for its amazing craft markets. There is a myriad of stalls brimming with authentic Indian items that are really hard to resist and with the bright in-your-face colours of the textiles and bustling atmosphere it's a sensory overload! Knowing how to haggle is a bonus so if you haven't been to Morocco read our guide and ensure that you get that Ugly Betty style poncho for the best possible price!
In addition to the markets Otavalo has beautiful surrounding landscape, with green rolling hills, waterfalls, lakes and mountains.
Papallacta Hot Springs
If the Spanish lessons are stressing you out (highly unlikely!) then a visit to Papallacta Hot springs is in order. Located around one hour from Quito, this is a great day trip for chilling out and admiring the stunning surroundings, whilst wallowing in the healing waters. There are a number of different types of pools in terms of the type of water and the temperature, so find your favourite, lie back and think of Ecuador.
Baños Hot Springs
The peaceful little village of Baños is just a few miles from Cuenca and not to be confused with the large town of Baños in the Tungurahua region is home to some relaxing, therapeutic hot springs. Ok, so it’s not exactly ‘Xtreme’ but everyone needs some chill out time occasionally and this is the perfect place. This optional trip allows you to detoxify in the sauna, lounge in the pools and then explore the village and surrounding countryside.
Week 2: Amazon exploration and travel through Ecuador
After an exciting first week in and around Quito, you can then follow your own schedule taking you to Tena, the Gateway to the Amazon rainforest. With a three-day tonight overnight stay in the jungle, you will meet indigenous Indians, explore the jungle with guides showing some of the diverse wildlife the Amazon has to offer and staying in a luxurious adventure Lodge.
You then follow the Ecuador and Peru travel pass itinerary, stopping through one of the most beautiful cities in Ecuador Cuenca.
CUENCA
Cuenca, official name Santa Ana de los cuatro ríos de Cuenca, where you dive into what is one of the most important cultural centres of Ecuador. Museums, galleries, artisan crafts, impressive archeological sites and stunning countryside await you here. It’s a complete change from the capital city, giving you a real taste of the different faces of Ecuador and there are some real treats in store. Cuenca is a stunning old city that is much more relaxed than the hustle and bustle of Quito. Walking around the narrow cobbled streets, lined with red roof colonial houses with ornate iron balconies, you could imagine that time has stood still. Thanks to UNESCO Cuenca will stay this way, since it was awarded World Heritage Site status in 1999. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cuenca is an important cultural and art centre in Ecuador.
It’s also a great place to pick up some authentic souvenirs, such as jewellery, ceramics and clothing and shopping trips are the ideal opportunity to practice your Spanish, not to mention ordering some local food and drinks in the bars and restaurants. Look out for Motepillo, a Cuenca speciality that is even suitable for vegetarians (no guinea pig here!).
Cojitambo and Ingapirca ruins
Located around an hour from Cuenca are the Ingapirca ruins, which are a fantastic example of the ingenious work of the Incan and Cañari cultures. This network of stone structures is built around a circular sun temple, which evidences the ancient cultures’ knowledge of solar patterns. Not too far away are the less visited ruins of Cojitambo, which are actually thought to be larger than Ingapirca and resemble the shape of a sleeping lion. The terraced walls and settlements are still in pretty good shape, providing great photo ops.
Cajas National Park
Located just out side Cuenca is the beautiful Cajas National Park, we include a full day trip here.
Quayagil
In the third week you can add in an optional trip into the itinerary, the most popular options are Spanish & Surf in Montanita
On Ward Travel to Peru
This is all optional of course because not everyone wants to do two weeks of Spanish and surfing, or has the funds to add in the Galapagos Islands which can be quite expensive, but the Spanish surf program is a lot of fun and extremely helpful to get you to grips with Spanish for your travel in South America, and the Galapagos Islands are definitely something you must see once-in-a-lifetime, so when will you have a better opportunity?
Whether you pick to do an option or not your journey will take you to Lima, with plenty of exciting cities along the way, and an included day trip to the stunning Cajas National Park and then on to Guayagil.
Lima
When you arrive and leave a you will have a friendly face to greet you, with the one night home stay and urban Lima experience, where our very own resident Lima surf instructor guide will show you what it's like to be a local in this exciting capital city.
Within included surf lesson, historical city tour guide will show you around and introduce you to the city from the perspective of a local. That means visiting some of the best places that only locals know about.
That night you will have a comfy bed and huge welcome from a friendly local host family.
Please note that the Peru and Bolivia sections of the itinerary are flexible, they are hop on hop off which means you can spend longer in any of the locations as you desire. Whilst we have listed below a day-to-day itinerary, it is just a sample of what you can expect and does not have to be completed in that timescale.
Lima to Cuzco
Lima Day 1
Mysterious, iconic and Xtreme – that just about sums up Peru and the amazing adventure-filled trip that awaits you! Your excitement levels will be going through the roof as you arrive in Lima and you think about all the things you are going to see and do over the next 19 days and where better to start than the country's capital city. Underneath the chaotic atmosphere and often foggy skies you'll find a stunning historical centre worthy of UNESCO World Heritage status, art galleries and museums galore and cool nightlife.
To make you feel at home in Lima we have included homestay and get to know the real Lima with our resident Xtreme Gap Rep! That means checking out the city and seeing it through the eyes of a local. (He is actually our resident surf instructor and one cool dude, you will be in good hands).
Lima
To give you a taste of what Lima has to offer, day two starts with a city tour with local guides who will show you the most interesting sites, including the spectacular Monasterio de San Francisco and Plaza de Armas, and tell you all about the Incan and Colonial past. Even if history isn’t your strong point, we guarantee you’ll be fascinated.
In the afternoon you are free to roam around the centre, checking out the markets and possibly trying one of the local delicacies, Cuy. If you’re Spanish skills aren’t up to scratch yet we can tell you that this is roasted guinea pig (sorry fluffy!). You’ll be pleased to know that there are oodles of restaurants and different cuisine available though.
Paracas
Your first stop today is Paracas where you pick up the boat tour to the stunning Islas Ballestas. Have your camera at the ready to capture the cheeky sea-lions, playful dolphins and noisy marine birds – just watch out for the Guano (we’ll let you Google that one!). You’ll also get to see an unusual landmark, the ‘Candelabra of Paracas’. Where did it come from? Why doesn’t it disappear in the wind? Your expert guide can fill you in.
After being on the water you head to Huacachina to sandboard the afternoon away. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve done it before or not, you’ll have a blast. It’s simple really, just jump on a board, push off and hope for the best! Check out the video for a taster. Those pesky grains of sand get everywhere so don’t be surprised if you find a mini beach on your bus seat when you arrive in Nasca.
Ica
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The impressive archaeological site of Cahuachi could be on the schedule today. Consisting of over thirty pyramids and temple ruins, this ancient city, around 2000 years old, is a sight to behold. Between your guide and the excellent museum, where you can see artifacts and mummies, you’ll find out all about the evolution of the Nasca culture. It is a truly fascinating tour in a place that looks like something out of an Indiana Jones film. Yep, we’ve got the theme tune stuck in our heads now! Nasca If you fancy ticking off another one of those ‘ultimate places to see before you die’, then you’re in for a treat today. You have the option of taking a flight over the mysterious Nasca Lines to view these amazing geometric patterns and shapes, which are thought to have been created by the ancient Nasca people. However there are some alternative theories as to how they came about and what they were for, so cue the X Files music and some interesting ideas about alien involvement! |
Following that little adventure the trip continues on to the stunning city of Arequipa, also known as ‘La Ciudad Blanca’ due to the white volcanic rock buildings.
Arequipa
With 300 days of sunshine per year, bright blue skies and some of the most beautiful architecture in Peru, Arequipa is the perfect place for you and your new mates to go wandering. Thousands of years of history and geology provide amazing photo opportunities and we're sure you'll love the spicy local cuisine and sizzling nightlife . However, before you go overboard on Pisco, the local brandy-like spirit, remember that the next day is an early start!
Colca Canyon
You'll need a head for heights today for the morning tour to Cruz del Condor - a particular point at Colca Canyon which is home to the majestic Andean Condor, the national symbol of Peru. The beauty of both the huge birds and the world's second deepest gorge is spectacular and it can leave you feeling pretty humble (not to mention a bit queasy!).
The small towns of Maca and Yangue are also on the schedule today, where you can explore the streets, admire the churches and generally appreciate the traditional culture. You'll no doubt find out from your guide that Maca shares it's name with a plant whose root is used as herbal medicine, quite often as an aphrodisiac, so be careful what you buy at the local market as you might end up with more than you bargained for!
In the afternoon we return to Arequipa.
Arequipa to Cuzco
It’s pretty easy-going today, with a bus trip from Arequipa to the city of Cuzco, it is a drive through the Andes so expect beautiful scenery!
It's an early start but an easy day today as you'll be boarding the 7.20am Inkaexpress bus to Cusco. It's a full day journey but along the way you can admire the Andean landscapes, little villages and herds of cute llamas and alpacas. You have a chance to stretch your legs with a visit to the impressive Temple of Raqchi, which was built in honour of the Superior God Wiracocha, before moving on to the ancient fortress ruins and the picturesque colonial village of Andahuaylillas, where you can visit the old adobe church and find out some more about the mysterious mummified skull that was discovered in 2011, which some believe to be of alien origin. It's that Indiana Jones/X Files thing going on again!
From Andahuaylillas it's just a short journey to Cusco, where you'll arrive at around 17.30 and settle in to your hotel.
Cuzco
Today you have a chance to take in the amazing sights and sounds of the city with a tour of Cusco. The vibrant atmosphere will envelope you as you admire the mixture of ancient Incan and modern western architecture, visit the fascinating museums and sample some local food and drink at the restaurants and bars in the main square, Plaza de Armas.
You might be tempted to have a lively night out at the abundance of fun backpacker and local bars, but remember that tomorrow is the start of your trek on the iconic Inca Trail and at this altitude any physical exertion is double the effort! You will have a chance to wind down in Cusco again after the four day trek.
- Cusco – Llulluchapampa
In the morning we will be transferred from Cusco through the Urubamba River Valley to the km 82 point, which is where the first part of our trek begins. Get ready for awe-inspiring views, dizzying heights and possibly the odd blister! After registering with government control we cross the bridge and begin the walk to Llactapata, which is the first place of archaeological importance and where we'll have lunch. After some nourishing food we continue on to the first camp at Llullchapampa. It's pretty steep going, but you're young and fit so you can handle it!
Llulluchapampa - Chaquicocha
The second day of the trek can seem a little daunting as it involves reaching the highest point on the trail at Warmihuañusca, over 4,200 metres, so it's a tough day but extremely rewarding. Also, don't let the name of this section put you off - Dead Woman's Pass refers to the shape of the mountain, not the effect that hiking it has on you! To take your mind off the walking you can take in the views of the snow-capped peaks. After the big climb, it's time to descend into the Pacaymayu valley, before heading onto the second camp at Chaquicocha, where you can catch up with fellow trekkers around the campfire.
Chaquicocha – Wiñaywayna
After breakfast we begin the trek to Runkuraqay archaeological complex, where you get to explore the Incan ruins and admire the sweeping views, before continuing onto another important site at Sayacmarca, where the guide will explain the different theories about what the purpose of the construction was. You'll see a big change in the geography and climate as you trek through mountains to upper jungle and cloud forests and as you head over the Phuyupatamarca Pass you'll reach another archaeological site. It's downhill from there to the camp at Wiñaywayna and some much needed food and rest, well, that's after swapping more stories with all the other like-minded adventurers.
Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu
The final countdown! It's a very early start today as the trek continues to Intipunku, but you'll be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise and panoramic view of Machupicchu's citadel. This is when you realise that it's all been worth it! After taking in this amazing site and almost filling up your memory card with photos we continue downhill for around 45 minutes to Machupicchu for a tour and a hike up the mountain of Waynapicchu. Come on, you've got this far!
In the afternoon it's time to board the backpacker train back to Cusco where you can relax and absorb the fact that you have just completed one of the world's best treks. You should reward yourself with a drink or three of the local rum.
Relax your tired legs in Cuzco once again.
Today is a free day for you to relax and recuperate or carry on with the Cusco sightseeing that you didn't get to finish before the Inca Trail. At this point you could stay on for a few extra days or if you have chosen to do the Round the World - South America trip then you'll be looking forward to continuing your awesome adventure into Bolivia.
This is also the ideal time to gather the email addresses, Twitter names and Facebook pages of all your new mates so that when you are back in a boring job saving for your next adventure you have someone to reminisce with, not to mention lots of friends around the world to visit!
Puno
Puno is located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. You might be tempted to catch up on some sleep on the way, but we’re sure that the awe-inspiring Andean Mountain Range will keep you and your camera occupied. On arrival in Puno you can settle into your hostel accommodation and then head out with some fellow adventurers to soak up the unique atmosphere, with its mixture of different Peruvian cultures, vibrant markets and friendly locals.
Lake Titicaca
If you feel like you've seen and experienced a lot so far, you ain't seen nothing yet! A full day motor boat excursion on Lake Titicaca is on the schedule, when you get to explore the unique floating islands of the Uros tribe. Made from Totora reeds, these islands have to be repaired and re-made to keep them sturdy enough for the homes, schools and shops that exist. It really is ingenious! Just watch out for any thin patches otherwise you might find yourself with soggy trousers.
The final stop of the day is at the island of Amantani, where you will stay with a local family. You'll be welcomed with open arms and after a dinner prepared with fresh local ingredients you can dance the night away at the village meeting place - expect traditional music, colourful clothes and lots of laughs. It's a fabulous experience that you will never forget.
Taquile
After breakfast the last island visit is to Taquile, which is well known for its hand-woven textiles and the custom of dressing according to your status, for example married men and women wear red, whereas those who are single wear red and white (maybe this practice should be adopted in all pubs and clubs - at least it's clear who you can aim for!). In addition to experiencing the social culture you have the chance to explore the pre-Inca ruins, hillside agricultural terraces and purchase some souvenirs for your jealous mates back at home.
In the afternoon we will drop you off in Puno and transfer you to your hostel.
Copacabana to La Paz
Finally it will be time to say good bye to Peru and hola to Bolivia!
La Paz
Bienvenidos a La Paz! Welcome to this amazing, sky-high city, official name Nuestra Señora de La Paz (Our Lady of Peace), where your adventure begins. If you arrive on a clear day you can admire the aerial view from the plane of snow-capped Mount Illimani and the city's buildings, which cascade down the sides of the canyon - pretty impressive!
With a varying altitude of between 3000 to 4100 metres, it may take a little while to acclimatize, unless you are on the last leg of our fantastic 'Round the World - South America' trip. After settling into your accommodation and meeting some fellow travellers you can take your first wander around the narrow streets and plazas of this buzzing city. If you do feel the effects of the altitude, try a cup of Maté de coca, coca leaf tea.
There are museums, markets, the impressive city cathedral at Plaza Murillo and beautiful colonial architecture on Calle Jaen. One of the most intriguing places to visit is the Witches Market, which is full of stalls selling herbs, potions, jewellery and amulets, not to mention some more disturbing items such as llama foetuses. You're also likely to see witch doctors wandering around, who can be identified by their dark hats.
In between the sightseeing, and providing you haven't lost your appetite, you can chill out at the local cafes or comedors, chat to the locals and sample some of the street food, such as salteñas and empanada tucumana. Later on in the evening you can hit the peñas, or music clubs, to hear traditional Andean folk music.
Why not try... THE DEATH ROAD!
We're not sure if there is one word that means 'butt-clenchingly scary, adrenaline fuelled extreme exhilaration', but that's what you're going to experience today! The Death Road, or Camino del Muerte as it is known by the locals, is the world's most dangerous road. We say road, but what we really mean is a 2-way dirt track, with sheer drops on one side, that weaves its way through the Andes and descends 1200 metres in altitude. And you're going to mountain bike down it. Hey, look on the bright side, you won't have much peddling to do!
Although the road does claim 100 lives per year, we should point out that 50,000 people in total have done this trip and most have survived, so the chances of you completing the rest of the trip are pretty good! However, if this really isn't for you then you can spend another day in La Paz. We certainly don't make you do anything you don't want to , but just imagine the feeling of euphoria if you can conquer your fear!
Later in the evening you'll board the night bus to Uyuni and it can get quite chilly at night so make sure that you wrap up warm so that you can get some sleep.
This section of the trip is a 3 day/2 night Salt Flats and Desert Adventure and over the next few days you'll experience some unique and breathtaking landscapes.
Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon)
Situated just 10km from La Paz, this is the first stop. It's a surreal, desert-like landscape that has been formed over centuries by the erosion of the clay. This has resulted in some weird looking shapes and structures, making the whole area look like a desert filled with stalagmites.
Salar de Uyuni
This is the world's largest salt pan and is a blindingly white landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. You and your fellow adventurers will be taken out on the salt pans by jeep, where you'll discover that your depth perception is totally out of whack! There are virtually no points of reference out here so mountains that only appear to be a couple of miles away could be several hundred. What this does provide is some amusing photo opportunities.
Atacama Desert and Desert Lakes
During the trip you'll pass through some vast deserts, including the Atacama. We know what you're thinking, 'That's not in Bolivia', well no, it's in Chile and that's why you'll need to make sure you bring your passport with you! So, on your Xtreme Bolivia Experience you actually also get to go to Chile. We're good to you! In addition to visiting this famous desert you also get to see another that is named after the famous surrealist, Salvador Dali, so you can just imagine the kind of landscape you're going to see here.
To make a change from the dusty deserts there are two amazing lakes to see en route - Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde. The first is renowned for its population of flamingos and also its rusty red colour, caused by the algae and mineral sediments in the water. The second is so called because of the vivid green/blue colour, which makes for some stunning photos, especially with the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Sol de Mañana Geysers
This is a geothermal area with intense volcanic activity. It consists of boiling mud lakes and sulphur springs, which shoot a combination of mud and water up to heights of between 10 - 50 metres. You certainly want to stick to the protected areas so that you don’t run the risk of being cooked and just in case you didn’t realize, the smell of sulphur = rotten eggs. You do not want a hangover when you visit this place! Following this you can take a dip in the hot springs at Polques, which are a lovely 30 degrees warm and perfectly safe, so don’t forget your swimsuit. However, you will need several layers of clothes for afterward as Uyuni is a high-desert climate where temperatures reach extremes, including the cold.
Locomotive Graveyard
Back at Uyuni you can go and view some of the old steam engines and cars that date back to colonial times. The town was an important stop at one point and although it still has a station the trains are much more modern. We can assure you that visiting this tourist attraction does not make you a trainspotter!
Potosi
You get to sleep in today before transferring to the town of Potosí, which became famous when silver was discovered in the 16th century. Over time it has gone through a boom and bust scenario, but despite the decline in economy and in addition to the mining history the town has many other attractive features including impressive churches, well preserved colonial architecture and friendly locals.
You might wonder what is so Xtreme about going to visit a mine to hear about the history and current way of life of a local miner. You might be thinking 'yawn'. Well, if we told you that you'd get to blow stuff up would that make it sound more appealing? That's right, you can actually buy some dynamite, set the charges and show that plunger who's boss. Boom, satisfaction guaranteed! Check out Xtreme travellers Ania and Stew on a trip down the mines.
After an explosive afternoon it's time to head to Sucre.
Sucre
You could spend your first day in Sucre familiarising yourself with this attractive city, with its whitewashed buildings, colonial architecture and charming narrow streets. Being quite small it is an easily walkable city, which makes it ideal for soaking up the atmosphere and making your way around the number of museums, parks and markets.
Alternatively, if you feel like a change from culture and history you can choose an optional adventure activity in the nearby valleys, such as quad biking, horse riding and paragliding.
There are a couple of interesting options to visit in and around Sucre today - the city's very own version of Jurassic Park or the traditional village of Tarabuco. The dinosaur park contains fossils of prehistoric plant and animal fossils, skeletons and a trail of authentic dinosaur footprints. Luckily they haven't created any live ones yet, so no need to worry about T-Rex and friends.
Tarabuco village, just outside of Sucre is a charming and historic place where you can wander the traditional markets and watch local weavers create colourful ponchos and blankets. You might even get to join in with a game of footie with the kids.
La Paz
Today is the day to stock up on any last minute souvenirs, take some final photos and enjoy some of the local cuisine you haven't tried yet, such as Majao (a rice dish with eggs, beef and fried banana - interesting combination!) or fried yucca, washed down with some Singanis, a kind of pisco, or Chicha, which is fermented maize.
Make sure that you've also got that list of email addresses from the new mates you've made along the way before you board the night bus back to La Paz.
Trip Ends
You're airport bound today, either to go home or onward travel somewhere else. Either way, don't be sad about this adventure being over, just think about all the things you've experienced, places you've seen and people you've met - you have a lifetime of fantastic memories and stories to tell!
Gap Year Travel with us is all about adrenaline travel: exciting adventure travel programmes, offering you genuinely exciting alternatives to make the most of your gap year.
